High Tunnel Production in Arkansas

NEW HIGH TUNNEL PRODUCTION GUIDE!

Whether you are considering implementing a high tunnel or already have one in production, this High Tunnel Production Guide will be a useful resource. Chapter by chapter, this guide will walk you through important considerations for establishing a high tunnel on your property and creating a management plan for when it is in production.

Upcoming Events

Bed Preparation Meeting at Little Rock

Save the date! We will be at the St. Joseph Farmstead in Little Rock on September 17th discussing bed preparation and methods of transplant production. Registration will open in August.

High Tunnel Workshop in Marianna, AR

Save the date for the last high tunnel workshop of the year on October 29th. This will be a collaborative effort with UAPB in Marianna, AR. Registration will open in September.

Useful Resources

High Tunnel Resources List

Where can I buy a high tunnel?

2025 SE Vegetable Production Guide

2025 Southeastern U.S. Vegetable Crop Handbook

Basics of Drip Irrigation

Basics of Drip Irrigation and Fertigation for Specialty Crops

Quick Facts about the NRCS High Tunnel Grant:

WHO IS ELIGIBLE FOR THE FINANCIAL ASSISTANCE?

Applicates must own or have control over eligible land for the lifespan of the program’s contract and must develop an NRCS EQIP plan of operation. Additional eligibility information can be found at your local NRCS field office.

TUNNEL SIZES:

While the contract does not restrict tunnel length, the tunnels’ width cannot exceed 30ft and the tunnel must be a minimum of 6ft in height (at its peak) to qualify for financial assistance. While the amount of funding received is based on tunnel size, beginning in 2024 new regulations will introduce a cap, and will only cover a maximum square footage of 2,160. Underserved producers may qualify for additional financial assistance. Visit your local NRCS agent for more exact financial information.

PRE- MANUFACTURED KITS ARE REQUIRED:

To be eligible for financial assistance, tunnels must be purchased as a kit from a reputable manufacturer. All manufacturer instructions and specifications must be followed when preparing for and constructing the tunnel. Additionally, applicants must select a tunnel design that the manufacturers specifications indicate can handle environmental conditions common in the area, such as snow or high winds.

APPLICATES ARE RESPONSIBLE FOR THE INITIAL COST:

Growers will initially be responsible for the full cost of the tunnel. Once the tunnel is constructed, they will be reimbursed. Advance payment options are available for applicants that meet specific eligibility requirements. For more information on reimbursement timelines and payment options visit your local NRCS office. Some high tunnel suppliers are willing to work out payment plans with growers to reduce the size of initial payments while they wait for reimbursement.

Qualifications for advancement payment:

TUNNEL MODIFICATIONS AND IMPROVEMENTS:

Modifications or improvements can be made but must meet all the specifications of the manufacturer. Improvements include (but are not limited to) electricity, heating systems and additional/automated venting systems. Growers are responsible for the cost of any modifications or improvements.

WHAT CAN BE GROWN IN AN NRCS HIGH TUNNEL:

Any annual or perennial crop can be grown in an NRCS funded high tunnel but must be grown in the natural soil. Mounding soil without any structural sides is allowed but must not exceed 12 inches in height. Raised beds with structural sides are not permitted (there may be some exceptions to this, visit your NRCS office for more information). Under the current guidelines, growing crops in pots or on benches is not allowed. Tunnels cannot be used as a storage shed.

OTHER NRCS PROGRAMS THAT CAN IMPROVE HIGH TUNNEL PRODUCTION: