Greenhouse Initiative

"The proper role of government, however, is that of partner with the farmer -- never his master. By every possible means we must develop and promote that partnership -- to the end that agriculture may continue to be a sound, enduring foundation for our economy and that farm living may be a profitable and satisfying experience." -Dwight D. Eisenhower

Large greenhouse complexes located in predominantly agricultural counties could be just the thing we need to reinvigorate rural American towns. Not only would these provide a base level of employment in the community They would also provide a majority of low process food and eliminate food deserts nationwide.

The greenhouses will be community owned and operated. All profits and operations would be conducted at the local community level. Let’s keep money circulating in the local economy, a base level of employment, cheap and low processed food, as well as a recreational space of green and warmth in the late fall winter and early spring months.

There are other practical considerations when looking at greenhouses. Firstly, since they are climate controlled, they can expand the northern areas of the country to grow fruits, vegetables, and nuts that otherwise would have to be in the southwest. Secondly, they are good for water management, because they not only reduce water consumption, which would be useful in the dry southwest, as well as the great plains, but can also prevent over saturation in the case of the southeast, northwest and northeast.

A majority of the United States produce comes from just California, and another sizable percentage from the rest of the southwest, it is becoming evident from a national security standpoint that this is not a sustainable system long term. Not only is the Colorado river and her reservoirs being exhausted but underground water resources in California and the southwest states are being depleted at unsustainable rates. By spreading the load of our food necessities across the country the southwest can institute much needed conservation programs to restore water reservoirs and improve soil health.