Applications are being sought for farmers to assist with on-farm research in the greater Grand Traverse Bay area.

The Michigan Agricultural Experiment Station, Michigan State University Extension, the C.S. Mott Group for Sustainable Food Systems at MSU, and Michigan Food and Farming Systems will select one farmer to receive a hoop house (greenhouse structure) placed on their farm to contribute to on-farm sales, agri-tourism and educating the public about local and sustainable food systems.

Technical assistance in constructing and operating the hoop house will be provided in conjunction with the MSU Student Organic Farm. In return, the farmer will keep extensive records of activities, including sales revenue, labor and purchased input and labor costs.

It is also expected that the farmer will agree to share experience with adopting this technology and mentor and serve as a demonstration site for other prospective farmers interested in adopting this technology. The farmer grows the crops of his or her choice, as best suit the farm’s overall marketing strageties.

Applications are due by Feb. 1 at 5 p.m. Further information is available by contacting David S. Conner, C.S. Mott Group for Sustainable Food Systems, Department of CARRS at MSU, at (517)353-1914 or at connerd@msu.edu.