The new SNRAS/AFES greenhouse will be dedicated Nov. 22.The $4.5 million teaching and research facility replaces the 40-year old West Ridge greenhouse that was removed earlier this year to make space for the construction of the Life Sciences building.
The 4,500-square-foot greenhouse includes space-efficient teaching and research areas equipped with state-of-the-art environmental control and innovative plant production systems. The finished upper level has two greenhouse sections of 750 square feet and two sections of 375 square feet. The lower level has three sections of 750 square feet each and houses a 900-square-foot growth chamber area (housing seven individual growth chambers with more to possibly be added in the future). The greenhouse extends along the south side of the Arctic Health Research Building.
“We are very excited abut the research, teaching and outreach opportunities the greenhouse will provide for our faculty and students,” said Carol Lewis, dean of the UAF School of Natural Resources and Agricultural Sciences and director of the Agricultural and Forestry Experiment Station.
A computerized control system monitors and regulates environmental variables such as temperature, humidity and light intensity in each greenhouse compartment, providing optimal conditions for plant growth. “This will provide excellent opportunities for students to prepare for careers in the modern greenhouse industry,” Lewis said.
The greenhouse currently features a finished upper level and a built-out lower level that is not yet fully automated or ventilated. The greenhouse complex also includes 1,100 square feet of classroom space, a laboratory, two offices, a clean room, storage and an area for handling plant materials, fertilizers and potting media. This portion of the complex was completed in an earlier renovation of the west wing of Arctic Health Research Building.
The public is invited to a ribbon-cutting ceremony Tuesday, Nov. 22 at 4 p.m. Speakers include UAF Chancellor Brian Rogers, Sen. Joe Thomas, businessman Bernie Karl and Jim Mitchell of Ghemm Co. Contact Marilyn Childress at 474-7083 to RSVP.
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