MASON, Mich. — Students who participate in FFA or are enrolled in the botany curriculum have been using the District’s passive solar greenhouse since it was constructed in 2011. Utilizing sinking fund dollars, the District invested in a new heating system in the greenhouse to allow for year-round use. Prior to this investment, the greenhouse had been used for limited experimentation and to grow cool season crops such as lettuce, spinach, kale, radishes and other leafy salad greens. The crops have been sold to the public and served during school lunch. The challenge has been with cold and cloudy Michigan winters, there is limited time for the greenhouse to enhance learning during the school year.
This year, the greenhouse investment will add a heating element to allow students to use the greenhouse year-round. Students will be able to conduct longer-term research projects with a much broader array of topics, grow new types of crops and explore the impact of conditions on plant growth during the year. Student research projects will allow for greater participation in both the State and National FFA agriscience fairs. Additionally, plans are underway to hold a hanging basket and patio planter sale later this spring which will be open to the public.
“Mason students have had great success participating in competitions as well as during class time in which the greenhouse is used. By extending the time frame in which it is usable, students can develop even more skills and further enhance their learning opportunities. Students are already making great use of the space during this traditional off-season,” said Mason High School teacher, Peter Barnum who serves as the local FFA advisor.
Want to see more local news ? Visit the FOX47News Website.
Stay in touch with us anytime, anywhere.
Download our free app for Appleand Android
and
Sign up for newsletters emailed to your inbox.
Select from these options: Breaking News, Severe Weather, School Closings, Daily Headlines and Daily Forecasts.
