In the harsh winter of rural Saskatchewan, one must not underestimate the severity of the season. However, for a farming couple in Hudson Bay, the need for a greenhouse is surprisingly absent. Instead, they have found success in transforming an old schoolhouse into a thriving farm, providing fresh vegetables to the entire town. This has proven to be such so beneficial for a town that experiences extreme cold weather.
June and Jan Nel, immigrants from South Africa, have established a hydroponic farm within the confines of the abandoned community school. Equipped with a convenient drive-through window, they cultivate and distribute an impressive array of lettuce varieties such as romaine, butter, baby romaine, red romaine, green oakleaf, red oakleaf, Muir, and Batavia. Additionally, they also grow kale, dill, basil, cucumbers, arugula, Swiss chard, tomatoes, radishes, and parsley.
Upon their arrival in the town of 1,504 residents, the Nel couple discovered the neglected schoolhouse adjacent to their home. Recognizing its potential for an innovative agricultural venture, Jan proposed the idea of starting a hydroponics business.
After presenting their plan to the town, they received the necessary approval to convert the derelict building into their thriving hydroponic farm. This was where the project began. An idea that turned out to be extremely brilliant and helpful to those who are in need of goods during the winter season.
“I think when my husband first said ‘let’s grow lettuce inside an old school building,’ I did not really think that it would become what it has,” said June. She oversees and runs Let-Us Grow Hydroponics with Jan.
“I didn’t really realize how the community would love it and embrace it, and how much I would enjoy doing it.”
Throughout most of the year, the town located approximately 180 miles northeast of Saskatoon relies on trucked-in produce. The COVID-19 lockdowns and travel restrictions have revealed that Canada’s food distribution centers hold only a three-day supply of produce.
Currently, the town has started growing produce in a few classrooms and the library. The overwhelming positive response from the community to their drive-through veggie bags has inspired them to expand their operations and utilize more space.
While hydroponics can partially address food insecurity, it has its limitations. It can only cultivate certain types of plants and cannot grow essential staples like beans and potatoes. Additionally, issues such as pests, temperature fluctuations, and nutrient imbalances can quickly jeopardize indoor crops, posing a greater risk compared to crops grown in open fields.
Despite these challenges, the Let-Us Grow Facebook page showcases the successful results. The page features a stunning array of vibrant greens and reds, with rows of lettuce and neatly stacked cucumbers resembling lumber.
Looking ahead, the future plans for Let-Us Grow involve establishing a cafe and conference room. This expansion aims to share the joy, flavors, and knowledge of hydroponic farming with the rural community in Canada.
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