Event information
Date
Location
Online course
Contact
Natalie Hoidal, Extension educator, [email protected]
Erik Heimark, [email protected]
Introduction to high tunnel vegetable production
Join us for a 9-week course to learn the fundamentals of high-tunnel vegetable production. By the end of the course, you should have an actionable high-tunnel plan that you can use to guide you through the season.
Topics
- Choosing crops
- Designing an irrigation system
- Managing soil fertility and soil health
- Managing weeds, insects, and diseases
- Planning for pruning and trellising
- Harvest and postharvest handling
- Basic maintenance
The course meets weekly online from February 3 to March 31, 2026. We will offer a series of optional field trips this summer, including visits to farms that successfully use high tunnels, as well as hands-on workshops in St. Paul.
The course is taught by Natalie Hoidal, Extension educator, and Erik Heimark of Maple Ridge Produce and Renewing the Countryside, along with farmer co-presenters.
Farmers who complete the course will be eligible to receive a $300 scholarship to implement their high tunnel plans. These scholarships are made possible through the generous support of a grant from the United States Department of Agriculture's Organic Research, Education, and Extension Programs.
Cost
$75
Registration
Registration closes February 1, 2026, or when enrollment reaches 30 participants. This course is delivered on Zoom and uses the Canvas course tool.
Accommodations
University of Minnesota Extension is committed to providing equal opportunity for participation in all programs, services and activities. To request accommodations for persons with disabilities, reach out to the event contact two weeks before the start of the event. Requests received after this date will be honored whenever possible.
Language
This offering is delivered in English. Interpreter services may be available with an advance request.
