AMES, Iowa – Iowa State University Extension and Outreach has published an online Introduction to High Tunnels(HORT 3070) course for producers interested in high tunnel production. The course includes five modules designed to assist producers with the decision of whether or not to construct a high tunnel on a farm.
“This course will walk users through how to properly select a location, test soil, determine what crops to grow in a high tunnel, expected costs and potential returns from your high tunnel and resources to help in the process,” said Christa Hartsook, small farms program coordinator for ISU Extension and Outreach.
This course was developed for those wanting to learn more about high tunnel production, but unable to attend a face-to-face training. The self-directed course allows users to complete the video lessons at their own pace. Worksheets at the end of each module provide users the opportunity to enter information specific to their own operation. Once submitted, those same worksheets provide a method for individual feedback from the course instructors, Hartsook and Joe Hannan, commercial horticulture specialist with ISU Extension and Outreach.
The Introduction to High Tunnels course is $25 and can be purchased online at the Iowa State University Extension and Outreach store. The learning course can be accessed through a web browser or mobile device.