This project is a very limited model of an energy efficient (EE) greenhouse to determine energy savings due to configuration and a GAHT exchange loop. Energy requirements will be compared to a standard hoop house (Std) of the same square footage, growing the same type and quantity of plants. A second structure set at an angle onto a hillside with stepped shelves may be attempted at the same time.
The small (10' x 24') EE greenhouse will be built with the aisle set two and half feet into the ground and the shelves at ground level. The frame will made from standard metal pipe but it will use flat surfaces and pipe fittings rather than the more traditional hoop houses. The rear (north facing) wall will be solid earth or concrete to act a heat sink and minimize heat loss. Winter heat will be supplied with 800 feet of tubing buried about eight feet deep to use the more constant temperatures at that depth. If it is found that additional heat beyond the geothermal loops is required, it will be supplied by a rocket mass heater . Constant readings of indoor and outdoor temperatures, energy use, and fuel consumed will be compiled and evaluated. Data for light, wind and precipitation will be obtained from a nearby meterological station.
Genetic pollution and loss of genetic diversity are now very pressing threats with the ongoing widespread use of GMOs. I DO NOT absolutely oppose GMOs. There has not been enough peer reviewed scientific studies to prove them harmful (or harmless) to humans. However it is a fact that they propagate and will eventually contaminate many non-GMO crops. This is where I take exception with the current GMO methods (widespread intoduction with no regard to the contamination of non-GMO crops) which seems arrogant. As our government has not deemed it important to protect our freedom of choice (even as much as many other countries!) when it comes to the food we eat and our natural resources, it falls to the individual. It is increasingly necessary for organic farmers (or individual growers or others who do not favor GMOs or the current chemicals used on our foods) to isolate many of their food crops to avoid contamination. This is the reason greenhouse research is necessary.
Luckily, I live in a rather remote location with few neighbors, no large commercial farms nearby and a relatively mild winter climate. The minimal light due to overcast conditions can be more limiting than the tempertures. Data from the project, if attempted, will be made freely available to everyone.
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