By Scout Nelson
The Mandan, Hidatsa, and Arikara Nation in North Dakota is taking a big leap towards food independence with a massive greenhouse complex.
This project, set to be one of the largest in the US, aims to grow fresh produce like lettuce, tomatoes, and strawberries.
This initiative comes after decades of dependence following the flooding of their traditional farmlands by the Garrison Dam.
The first phase, costing $76 million, includes a 3.3-acre greenhouse and plans to expand to 14.5 acres, significantly boosting the tribe's food production capacity.
This project is part of a wider trend among Native American tribes to achieve food sovereignty. By growing their own food, tribes like the Mandan, Hidatsa, and Arikara Nation can better feed their 8,300-member community and even supply produce to surrounding reservations and food banks.
Additionally, the greenhouse is expected to create 30-35 jobs and potentially generate 15 million pounds of food annually.
Uniquely, the project plans to utilize natural gas from North Dakota's Bakken oil field. This captured gas, traditionally wasted by burning, will be used to heat and power the greenhouse and create fertilizer.
This innovative approach addresses environmental concerns by reducing waste while ensuring sustainable food production for the future.
Photo Credit: pexels-pragyan-bezbaruah
Categories: North Dakota, General