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Our Bioshelter: The heart of Mountain Meadow Farm

Mountain Meadow Farm’s Bioshelter allows us to not only grow organic foods year-round but also to support plant and animal propagation in an ecological, sustainable manner. The Bioshelter features several major functional zones:

A greenhouse with raised soil growing beds, plant benches and potted perennials
A barn for animals, feed, and equipment storage
A large root cellar
A crop / food-processing area with sinks, counters, and refrigeration
A potting and propagating area (we use our own compost in our potting soils)
An area for cleaning, dehydrating, and storing herbs, vegetables, and fruits

Animals include chickens and turkeys. Greenhouse pests are controlled by mechanical and natural means.

Specifications and features

For details on the bioshelter model we studied most when designing this structure, visit www.bioshelter.com. Our facility was designed and built by Ed Dunn and the owner (with lots of additional support from the community).

» Interior dimensions: 40x40 feet; roof peak at 26 feet
» Total area: 2,600 square feet
» Growing area: 1,340 square feet
» Framework: steel
» Walls: South half, concrete block; north half, straw-bale infill
» Orientation: 10 degrees east of south for optimal solar gain
» Glazing: Triple-layer polycarbonate

Bioshelter

» Overview

» Heat Storage

» Water & Electricity

Gardens