Understanding the NRCS EQIP High Tunnel Initiative: Basics and Benefits

Discover how the NRCS High Tunnel Initiative can help you extend your growing season, improve crop quality, and access financial assistance to make your farm more productive and sustainable.

High tunnel installation with 4' sidewall and double-hung 8' tall walk-through doors

What is the NRCS EQIP High Tunnel Initiative?

The High Tunnel Initiative is a program offered by the Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) that provides financial assistance to farmers and gardeners through the Environmental Quality Incentives Program (EQIP). This initiative helps agricultural producers purchase and install high tunnels (also called hoop houses) to extend the growing season, improve plant and soil quality, and promote sustainable farming practices.

How High Tunnels Work

High tunnels are polyethylene-covered structures made of galvanized steel hoops. Unlike traditional greenhouses, high tunnels are:

• Less expensive to build and maintain

• Usually unheated, relying on passive solar heating

• Usually naturally ventilated using roll-up curtain sidewalls

• Semi-permanent structures with crops grown directly in the soil (not in pots)

• Designed primarily to extend growing seasons rather than provide year-round growing environments

The Purpose and Goals of the Initiative

The NRCS High Tunnel Initiative was established to help farmers address several agricultural challenges. The primary goals include:

• Extending the growing season into early spring and late fall

• Improving plant and soil quality through controlled growing environments

• Reducing nutrient and pesticide transportation into waterways

• Improving air quality by reducing transportation inputs

• Reducing energy use by providing consumers with local food sources

• Supporting conservation practices that protect natural resources

Benefits for Farmers and Gardeners

High tunnels offer significant advantages for both commercial farmers and small-scale producers:

Production Benefits

• Extend growing season by 4-6 weeks or more in both spring and fall

• Protect crops from severe weather (excessive rain, wind, frost)

• Enable more precise water and nutrient management through drip irrigation

• Improve pest management capabilities

• Create optimal growing conditions for high-value crops

• Protect plants from pollen and pesticide drift

Economic Benefits

• Increase marketable yields and crop quality

• Allow for earlier harvest times when market prices are typically higher

• Reduce crop losses from weather events

• Provide opportunity to grow specialty crops in non-traditional seasons

• Enable steady production for consistent market presence

Conservation Benefits

• Improve soil health through reduced erosion and compaction

• Enhance water management efficiency

• Reduce need for chemical treatments

• Support integrated pest management practices

• Promote sustainable farming methods

Program Basics: What Financial Assistance is Available?

The High Tunnel Initiative provides cost-share funding for qualified applicants. Here's what you need to know about the financial aspects:

• The program operates as a reimbursement, meaning farmers purchase and install the high tunnel first, then receive payment after NRCS inspection

• Additional conservation practices such as irrigation systems, drainage solutions, or cover crops may also be eligible for funding

Who Can Apply?

While eligibility requirements vary by state, generally the program is open to:

• Active farmers or ranchers

• Beginning farmers and historically underserved producers (who may receive higher payment rates)

• Individuals with land that supports crops, hay, range, pasture, or environmentally sensitive areas

• Producers willing to comply with NRCS specifications and requirements

• Applicants who meet payment limitation and adjusted gross income requirements

Next Steps for Interested Farmers

If you're interested in applying for the NRCS EQIP High Tunnel Initiative, here are your first steps:

1. Contact your local NRCS office to learn about specific requirements in your state

2. Ask about application deadlines for the current funding cycle

3. Begin gathering required documentation (tax ID, property deed/lease, etc.)

4. Consider how a high tunnel fits into your overall farm conservation plan

   
   

In our next article, we'll help you assess whether a high tunnel is the right choice for your specific farming operation, exploring the types of crops that thrive in high tunnels and the site considerations for optimal placement.