High Tunnel Cost-Share Program
The Conservation District’s High Tunnel Cost-Share program helps eligible Jefferson County growers extend their growing season and increase opportunities for local food production through cost-share assistance for new high tunnel construction.
Get up to $3,000
or the actual cost of the installed high tunnel, whichever is less. Cost-share is not to exceed the actual cost of the high tunnel.
SEPT. 1–30
2026 application window
OCT. 7
Applicant notification
NOV. 18
Submit purchase order
DEC. 31
Project
completion
JAN. 12
Submit final paperwork
What is a high tunnel?
A high tunnel is an enclosed structure covered with polyethylene, polycarbonate, plastic, or fabric that protects crops from weather while extending the growing season.
Unlike a traditional greenhouse, high tunnels generally do not require supplemental heat or fans, reducing energy use. Crops are grown directly in the soil or in raised beds, allowing growers to take advantage of soil biology while using water more efficiently.
Typical high tunnels feature:
Arch-shaped supports covered with heavy-duty plastic or another approved covering
Roll-up sides and doors for ventilation and air movement
Sufficient peak height for an adult to comfortably stand inside
Options for more elaborate or rolling systems that can increase production space
High tunnels make productive use of a growing space for much more of the year, providing consumers with a more continuous source of fresh, locally grown food.
Cost-share details
This is a reimbursement program awarded after the high tunnel construction has been completed. All high tunnel construction should follow recommended procedures and best practices.
Upon completion, the high tunnel owner must submit a project completion form along with receipts and supporting documentation.
The cost-share amount is a flat rate of $3,000.00 or the actual cost of the high tunnel, whichever is lower. The cost-share is not to exceed the actual cost of the high tunnel.
Who can apply?
The cost-share is available only to Jefferson County residents. Non-profit organizations can also apply if they grow food for distribution in the targeted urban areas. Submitted applications are ranked by the Jefferson County Conservation District.
Priority Considerations
Priority will be given to applicants who:
Live in a Low Income–Low Access (LI-LA) area, as defined by the USDA
Intend to grow produce or other food within the high tunnel
Are beginning farmers
Demonstrate a level of community involvement
High Tunnel Requirements
Minimum 300 square feet
Minimum 6-foot peak height
Must be brand-new construction using an approved construction kit
Must be located on land capable of producing crops
Site must be reasonably protected from storm damage, flooding, animal/livestock damage, and falling trees or limbs
Must be located on reasonably level ground with a grade of less than 5%
Must not be located over buried public utilities
All high tunnel construction should follow recommended construction procedures and best management practices.
Why High Tunnels?
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Produce crops earlier in the spring and later into the fall and winter.
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Provide a more consistent supply of fresh, locally grown food to your community.
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Provide opportunities for more efficient use of water and reduced energy consumption compared with traditional heated greenhouses.
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Reduce the impacts of wind, excessive rainfall, and cold temperatures.
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Local production can reduce transportation inputs and help decrease the movement of nutrients and pesticides away from production areas.
Before you apply:
01 — Locate Your Utilities
Contact the appropriate utility companies to mark buried utilities on your property.
High tunnels cannot be constructed over buried public utilities.
02 — Schedule a Site Visit
Contact the Conservation District to schedule a site visit.
A Conservation District representative will verify that:
There is enough space for the proposed high tunnel.
The proposed location has a grade of less than 5%.
The site is suitable for construction.
Your site visit must be completed before the application window closes.
03 — Contact Vendors & Installers
Before applying, contact high tunnel suppliers and installers to:
Get an estimate for your project.
Confirm that the structure will fit your property.
Make sure materials can be obtained in time.
Confirm that the project can be completed by December 31, 2026.
Vendor Information Disclaimer:
The Conservation District provides a list of suppliers and installers for your convenience. The list does not constitute a recommendation or guarantee of any company's products, services, workmanship, or performance. Applicants are responsible for conducting their own due diligence and selecting the vendor or installer that best meets their needs.
Ready to get started?
SEPT. 1–30
2026 application window
OCT. 7
Applicant notification
NOV. 18
Submit purchase order
DEC. 31
Project
completion
JAN. 12
Submit final paperwork
Frequently Asked Questions
Who can apply?
Eligible residents of Jefferson County may apply. Nonprofit organizations may also apply when growing food for distribution in targeted urban areas.
1
The cost-share is $3,000 or the actual cost of the high tunnel, whichever is less. The cost-share covers both the high tunnel purchase and installation up to the maximum of $3,000.
How much is the cost-share?
2
No. The cost-share cannot exceed $3,000 or the actual cost of the high tunnel, whichever is lower.
Can I receive more than $3,000?
3
Does my high tunnel have to be new?
4
Yes. The structure must be brand-new construction using an approved construction kit.
The high tunnel must be at least 300 square feet and have a minimum peak height of 6 feet.
How large must my high tunnel be?
5
No. The site must meet program requirements, including having a grade of less than 5% and avoiding buried utilities and areas vulnerable to flooding, storm damage, livestock/animal damage, or falling trees and limbs.
Can I build it anywhere on my property?
6
Yes. The site visit must be completed before the application window closes.
Do I need to schedule a site visit?
7
Yes, applicants are responsible for selecting their own suppliers and installers and insuring that the high tunnel meets the program requirements.
Can I use my own contractor?
8
Can I pay for the project with cash?
9
No. Cash purchases will not be accepted.
High tunnel build complete?
Upon construction completion, the high tunnel owner must submit the following to receive their cost-share reimbursement:
Project Completion Form
Receipts/invoices (dated after program approval)
Proof of payment (canceled check or credit card statement)
Site visit completed by a Conservation District representative
NOTE: No cash purchases will be accepted.
