#VillageFarms #GreenhouseProduction #ControlledEnvironmentAgriculture #CEA #SustainableFarming
In the heart of the Chihuahuan Desert, where extreme temperatures and harsh climate conditions prevail, Village Farms has created an extraordinary oasis of fresh produce through its high-tech Controlled Environment Agriculture (CEA) greenhouses. For nearly three decades, Village Farms has been a pioneer in CEA, leveraging innovative farming techniques to grow a staggering 112 million pounds of fruits and vegetables annually, right on the doorstep of the USA and Mexico border.
Development of Village Farms’ Greenhouse Production:
Village Farms’ greenhouse operations, nestled just outside the towns of Marfa and Fort Davis in West Texas, are a marvel of agricultural ingenuity. These enclosed glass greenhouses tower over the desert landscape, providing an ideal environment for crops to thrive despite the foreboding climate outside. The company’s dedication to CEA has resulted in higher yields while using less land and considerably fewer natural resources, particularly water. Through hydroponic farming techniques, they can efficiently recirculate irrigation water, minimizing waste and conserving this precious resource.
Meet Abby Lange: Mastering the Art of Controlled Environment Agriculture:
At the forefront of Village Farms’ success is Abby Lange, the Facility Manager for Village Farms Marfa I greenhouse. Abby’s journey with Village Farms began as an intern, and over eight years, she has honed her expertise in Plant Science, Sustainable Agriculture, and Greenhouse Management. Now responsible for managing 20 acres of Tomatoes-on-the-Vine (TOV), Abby ensures the greenhouse climate and irrigation are optimal, oversees maintenance activities, and coordinates various teams to keep the production running smoothly and efficiently.
Embracing Automation and Data Utilization:
Abby envisions a bright future for Village Farms and CEA growing, emphasizing the importance of automation to streamline operations and make jobs less physically demanding for their staff. Moreover, she believes data utilization can be further enhanced by employing advanced analytical models, making the most of decades of climate, yield, and sales data available to them.
The impact of Village Farms’ greenhouse production goes beyond its remarkable yield of fresh produce. By growing food year-round, Village Farms contributes to local food security, reducing the need for extensive imports and making strides towards food independence. Moreover, their sustainable practices serve as a model for environmentally friendly farming methods, promoting ecological consciousness and responsible agriculture.
Looking Ahead:
As Village Farms continues to lead in CEA and greenhouse production, they remain committed to their mission of being “Good for the Earth and good for you.” With dedicated farmers like Abby Lange and a focus on sustainability, they are setting a precedent for the future of agriculture.
Village Farms’ journey in West Texas exemplifies the immense possibilities of Controlled Environment Agriculture in challenging landscapes. Their dedication to sustainability and innovation is not only feeding the growing population but also paving the way for a more resilient and environmentally conscious future.
