From Seed to Sustainability: A Report on
Housing 4 Now's Hydroponic Story
Introduction
Housing 4 Now, a non-profit organization in Phoenix, Arizona, has invested in a new innovative journey towards sustainable agriculture. This report explores the success in transitioning from traditional farming methods to a state-of-the-art hydroponics system on our 10-acre farm land development in Douglas, AZ.
Hydroponics Undertakening
Housing 4 Now's adoption of hydroponics has yielded impressive benefits. Here's how:
A Bountiful Marketplace
Housing 4 Now's commitment extends beyond efficient farming. We have established an open marketplace on our land, and offer a vibrant selection of:
Organic Practices for a Healthier Future
Housing 4 Now prioritizes organic practices. We have found that by avoiding harmful pesticides and chemicals, it ensures the good health our produce and the well-being of our customers.
Rainwater: Nature's Gift
Housing 4 Now leverages rainwater harvesting techniques to meet our crops' water needs. This not only conserves precious water resources, but also eliminates the potential health risks associated with city water treatment. According to the Arizona Department of Environmental Quality (EDOEQ), their inspection of and sample of over 1,200 public water systems across the state and inspection of 29 different kinds of a hazardous chemical known as PFAS, were found to be presence in Ariozna's Drinking Water Supplies, resulting in contaminated water sources.
According to the ADOEQ, At least 70 million Americans get their water from a system where toxic PFAS or better known as "forever chemicals", were found at levels that require reporting to the Environmental Protection Agency. PFAS, short for per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances, are a class of manufactured chemicals that have been used since the late 1940s in a wide variety of products and industries, and can now be found globally in water and soil. A growing body of evidence has shown that long-term exposure, even to low traces of these chemicals, can cause severe health issues, even cancer.
Rainwater VS Tap Water
There is a significant difference between rainwater and tap water, and it's important to understand what they are, their composition, and their uses. Rainwater is water that falls from the sky and is collected and stored in a rain harvesting system such as cisterns, barrels, or tanks. It is considered a natural resource and is considered pure, as it does not contain any added chemicals or contaminants. Rainwater is not processed or treated in any way, which means it is free from chlorine, fluoride, and other substances that are often added to tap water.
Tap water, on the other hand, is water that is supplied to homes, businesses, and other buildings through the public water system. This water is treated and processed to supposedly ensure it is safe for human consumption, and it often contains chemicals and other substances such as chlorine, fluoride, and disinfectants. The addition of these substances is necessary to eliminate harmful contaminants, such as bacteria, viruses, and toxic PFAS's that are present in the water.
The quality of tap water can vary depending on the source and treatment process. Some tap water sources may contain contaminants such as heavy metals, pesticides, and other chemicals, while others may be free of these contaminants. The quality of tap water can also be affected by the infrastructure of the water distribution system, as older pipes may contain lead and other harmful substances.
Creating Opportunities
The hydroponics project creates as many as 15 new employment opportunities for individuals annually. This fosters economic growth within the community.
Local Partnerships
Housing 4 Now collaborates with local merchants, supplying them with fresh produce every week. This strengthens the local food system and ensures access to healthy food for residents.
Sharing the Harvest
at Housing 4 Now, we demonstrate immense compassion, by donating up to 10-30% of our annual corps to to the local:
Empowering Through Education
Housing 4 Now believes in knowledge sharing. We provide free classes and online seminars regarding our hydroponics gardening technics. These methods have help to improve the local farmers agriculture and DIY enthusiasts who wish to adopt this sustainable practice.
You Pick Fresh Produce
At Housing 4 Now, get your hands dirty and your basket full with our "Pick Your Own Produce" program! Enjoy the satisfaction of harvesting your own fresh fruits and vegetables at budget-friendly prices. Housing 4 Now invites you to become a farmer for a day! Our "U-Pick" program lets you experience the fun of harvesting your own delicious, homegrown produce.
Faith-Based Partnerships: A Blessing
Our hydroponics gardning program has had a significant positive impact on Local faith-based groups and homeless shelters. Housing 4 Now's fresh produce program consists of healthy food which contributes to the well-being of those we serve.
Learning from the Land
Housing 4 Now has become a valuable learning resource. Local colleges and internship programs collaborate with the farm, providing students with hands-on experience in understanding the new farming way that hydroponics provides, which is sustainable agriculture.
Conclusion
Housing 4 Now's journey with hydroponics is a testament to innovation and social responsibility. Their commitment to sustainable practices, community engagement, and knowledge sharing serves as an inspiration for others seeking to build a more secure and healthy future.
Housing 4 Now's Hydroponic Story
Introduction
Housing 4 Now, a non-profit organization in Phoenix, Arizona, has invested in a new innovative journey towards sustainable agriculture. This report explores the success in transitioning from traditional farming methods to a state-of-the-art hydroponics system on our 10-acre farm land development in Douglas, AZ.
Hydroponics Undertakening
Housing 4 Now's adoption of hydroponics has yielded impressive benefits. Here's how:
- Cost Savings: Hydroponics eliminates the need for soil preparation and reduces reliance on expensive fertilizers and pesticides. This translates to significant cost reductions compared to traditional farming.
- Water Conservation: Hydroponic systems use up to 90% less water than traditional methods. This is crucial in an arid region like Arizona, where water conservation is paramount.
- Space Optimization: Hydroponic setups utilize vertical space, allowing for increased production on a smaller land footprint. This makes it ideal for the 10-acre development.
A Bountiful Marketplace
Housing 4 Now's commitment extends beyond efficient farming. We have established an open marketplace on our land, and offer a vibrant selection of:
- Fresh, high-quality fruits and vegetables
- Beautiful flowers
- Abundent seclection of herbs and spices
Organic Practices for a Healthier Future
Housing 4 Now prioritizes organic practices. We have found that by avoiding harmful pesticides and chemicals, it ensures the good health our produce and the well-being of our customers.
Rainwater: Nature's Gift
Housing 4 Now leverages rainwater harvesting techniques to meet our crops' water needs. This not only conserves precious water resources, but also eliminates the potential health risks associated with city water treatment. According to the Arizona Department of Environmental Quality (EDOEQ), their inspection of and sample of over 1,200 public water systems across the state and inspection of 29 different kinds of a hazardous chemical known as PFAS, were found to be presence in Ariozna's Drinking Water Supplies, resulting in contaminated water sources.
According to the ADOEQ, At least 70 million Americans get their water from a system where toxic PFAS or better known as "forever chemicals", were found at levels that require reporting to the Environmental Protection Agency. PFAS, short for per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances, are a class of manufactured chemicals that have been used since the late 1940s in a wide variety of products and industries, and can now be found globally in water and soil. A growing body of evidence has shown that long-term exposure, even to low traces of these chemicals, can cause severe health issues, even cancer.
Rainwater VS Tap Water
There is a significant difference between rainwater and tap water, and it's important to understand what they are, their composition, and their uses. Rainwater is water that falls from the sky and is collected and stored in a rain harvesting system such as cisterns, barrels, or tanks. It is considered a natural resource and is considered pure, as it does not contain any added chemicals or contaminants. Rainwater is not processed or treated in any way, which means it is free from chlorine, fluoride, and other substances that are often added to tap water.
Tap water, on the other hand, is water that is supplied to homes, businesses, and other buildings through the public water system. This water is treated and processed to supposedly ensure it is safe for human consumption, and it often contains chemicals and other substances such as chlorine, fluoride, and disinfectants. The addition of these substances is necessary to eliminate harmful contaminants, such as bacteria, viruses, and toxic PFAS's that are present in the water.
The quality of tap water can vary depending on the source and treatment process. Some tap water sources may contain contaminants such as heavy metals, pesticides, and other chemicals, while others may be free of these contaminants. The quality of tap water can also be affected by the infrastructure of the water distribution system, as older pipes may contain lead and other harmful substances.
Creating Opportunities
The hydroponics project creates as many as 15 new employment opportunities for individuals annually. This fosters economic growth within the community.
Local Partnerships
Housing 4 Now collaborates with local merchants, supplying them with fresh produce every week. This strengthens the local food system and ensures access to healthy food for residents.
Sharing the Harvest
at Housing 4 Now, we demonstrate immense compassion, by donating up to 10-30% of our annual corps to to the local:
- Homeless shelters
- Senior citizen groups
- Food banks
Empowering Through Education
Housing 4 Now believes in knowledge sharing. We provide free classes and online seminars regarding our hydroponics gardening technics. These methods have help to improve the local farmers agriculture and DIY enthusiasts who wish to adopt this sustainable practice.
You Pick Fresh Produce
At Housing 4 Now, get your hands dirty and your basket full with our "Pick Your Own Produce" program! Enjoy the satisfaction of harvesting your own fresh fruits and vegetables at budget-friendly prices. Housing 4 Now invites you to become a farmer for a day! Our "U-Pick" program lets you experience the fun of harvesting your own delicious, homegrown produce.
Faith-Based Partnerships: A Blessing
Our hydroponics gardning program has had a significant positive impact on Local faith-based groups and homeless shelters. Housing 4 Now's fresh produce program consists of healthy food which contributes to the well-being of those we serve.
Learning from the Land
Housing 4 Now has become a valuable learning resource. Local colleges and internship programs collaborate with the farm, providing students with hands-on experience in understanding the new farming way that hydroponics provides, which is sustainable agriculture.
Conclusion
Housing 4 Now's journey with hydroponics is a testament to innovation and social responsibility. Their commitment to sustainable practices, community engagement, and knowledge sharing serves as an inspiration for others seeking to build a more secure and healthy future.
