With Nevada’s short growing season and increasingly dry weather, local food production often falls short of demand, increasing reliance on imported produce. To bridge the gap, University of Nevada, Reno Extension will host a free workshop to help farmers and gardeners learn how to use high tunnels, also known as hoop houses, to protect crops and extend the short growing season. The workshop is Sept. 19 at the Extension office in Fallon, 111 Sheckler Road. 

The training is offered in person, as well as online, and is open to new and experienced producers, as well as home gardeners and gardening communities in food deserts. Participants will learn how to construct hoop houses and grow their own produce to help promote healthy eating and nutrition. Sessions will cover funding opportunities, site selection and high tunnel setup, as well as pest and disease control, soil and crop management, and irrigation and nutrient practices. In-person participants will also tour a local high-tunnel operation in the afternoon for hands-on experience. 

The workshop is supported by Western Extension Risk Management Education, a U.S. Department of Agriculture program that helps farmers manage business and production risks. The event will run from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., with lunch included. Register online, and choose the appropriate option for attending in person or virtually. Space is limited. 

“In these times of prolonged drought, high tunnels help farmers adapt while boosting productivity,” said Andrew Waaswa, Extension agriculture educator. “This workshop is about sharing practical strategies and building resilience together as a community of growers.” 

Hoop houses are one way Extension is also addressing food deserts, places far away from markets with fresh produce. Extension helps tribal reservations and others with hoop house production efforts to improve nutrition and reconnect communities with traditional agricultural practices. Through hands-on training, youth programs and partnerships with tribal governments and grassroots organizations, Extension helps build food-resilient communities in arid and underserved regions. 

For more information on the Sept. 19 high tunnel workshop, contact Waaswa at awaaswa@unr.edu or Kristen Burr at kburr@unr.edu, or call 775-423-5121. Persons in need of special accommodations or assistance for attending the workshop should contact Paul Lessick, civil rights and compliance coordinator, at plessick@unr.edu or 702-257-5577 at least five days prior to the scheduled event with their needs or for more information.