Seasonal High Tunnels (Hoop Houses)

EQIP Organic Initiative

Interim Practice Standard (PDF; 28 Kb)

For the first time, EQIP will offer high tunnels, or hoop houses, usually used to extend the growing season for fresh market vegetable producers. This practice is part of a pilot project to see if high tunnels are effective in reducing pesticide use, keeping vital nutrients in the soil, extending the growing season, increasing yields, and providing other benefits to growers.

Eligibility:

To receive cost sharing through EQIP you must have an active interest in agricultural crop production at the time you apply for the program, with a minimum of $1,000 in documented annual agricultural production.

The land must be agricultural land, and you must own or have control of the land for the length of the contract (two years).

Seasonal High Tunnel (Hoop House) Practice Requirements

The practice is intended to extend the growing season early and late in the growing year.

The size of the high tunnel funded by EQIP is limited to 2178 sq. ft.

The practice must be sited on existing cropland that has an active crop production history.

The crops grown within the high tunnel must be planted directly into the soil covered by the house. The use of pots, growing racks or hydroponics is not eligible.

The basis for developing the cost sharing for the high tunnel assumes that the structure will be removed at the end of the growing season to prevent damage by snow. More substantial hoops and heavier plastic may be utilized by the operator to reduce the risk of snow damage for structures that are left in place year round but the additional costs for these materials is not covered in EQIP.

To get started, contact NRCS at the USDA Service Center for your county. Applicants will need to establish eligibility as a producer with the USDA Farm Service Agency before applying.

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