Mar 3, 2021
Heron Farms saltwater hydroponics | Photo provided by Heron Farms
Editorial note: Sometimes we get narrow-minded about the benefits of vertical farming and potential applications. This story showcases a unique application of vertical farming that has implications for regions across the globe especially desert coastline regions. We work a lot in the Middle East so this article inspired us to think about how Heron Farm's work could apply there. For example, alternative crops could be one great way to drive sustainability beyond the typical "grow lettuce locally" that we see in vertical farming. Take a read and listen to be inspired and informed!
CONTENT SOURCED FROM VERTICAL FARM DAILY
Recently Evolve.ag held a podcast on 'What do saltwater vertical farming and sustainable coastlines have in common?'. Their series focuses on what's trending in food and food tech.
In the podcast, Heron Farms, a sea beans cultivator, is featured. Heron Farms uses its vertical farm and is also restoring marshland from their home base in Charleston, South Carolina.
In this episode, Wendy Yared, a food anthropologist, speaks with Sam Norton, the founder of Heron Farms. Inspired by the marsh he grew up playing in, he started the first saltwater vertical farm in the US. Heron Farms grows a type of Salicornia, also known as a sea bean. This plant provides high levels of nutrients like vitamin A, vitamin C, and, not surprisingly, sodium chloride. Chefs sometimes use it as a replacement for salt on fish dishes, like Crudo or ceviche. Beyond the farm, they're also using Salicornia to remediate salt marshes.
They talk about the ecological benefits of Salicornia and how marshland restoration can help turn seawater into a resource instead of a concern for people living in coastal areas. During the podcast, they also dive into the challenges of starting a vertical farm. And how important it is to balance the negative aspects of controlled environment agriculture, like expensive lighting and plastic, with activities that support the ecosystem.
For more information:
Evolve Ag
Wendy Yared, food anthropologist
wendy@evolve.ag
www.evolve.ag
