FOOD PRODUCTION FOR A SUSTAINABLE FUTURE.

Monterey Secondary College has a “ farm” but no equipment to use in it.
The project involves purchasing three growing tunnels and associated equipment to teach VCAL students about horticulture for food production. Local jobs are increasingly available in this industry if young people have an awareness of the basic skills needed for food production. The project involves propogation, growing in controlled atmosphere and using hydropnic techniqes. The additional benefit is to introduce these teenagers to the value of a varied diet with a significant intake of fruits and vegetables. At present this is often lacking from their diets.

The “farm”would be managed by VCAL students for the benefit of the entire school. Students will learn growing techniques which they could replicate in their homes to supplement fresh food supplies for their families. Mentoring of younger children with their own “no dig” patch would be a part of the programme. All year 7 students would be given a garden space which they would plant out with the assistance of the VCAL mentors. This would be like the Community Garden at the Community Centre where their parents could have their own patch. A new generation of food producers!