For the first time, the Great Canadian Farm Tour travelled north of the Arctic Circle, where we visited the Inuvik Community Greenhouse. This greenhouse allows the northern community to grow fresh, local produce year-round.  

Kenny Stewart, manager of the hydroponic unit, gave us a tour of the unique facility and taught us about how they can grow fresh produce throughout the cold Arctic winter.

“In my first year, I can’t tell you how many mistakes I made trying to grow these plants and learn about all the caveats of being in a greenhouse, in a hydroponics unit,” said Kenny to students across Canada, “but six years later, with enough effort and help, I’m now managing the hydroponics unit.”

“Never doubt yourself. If you make a mistake, you’re learning,” added Kenny as he wrapped up the tour. 

Here are some highlights from the tour:

• Most Northern Apple Trees: The greenhouse features apple trees that are the farthest north in Canada and North America, thriving despite the frigid temperatures. During the cold months, the apple trees are wrapped with blankets.
• Community Collaboration: The repurposing of the old hockey arena into a greenhouse was driven by local leadership and volunteers. Volunteers, including local high school students, pitch in to help with planting, watering, and harvesting, making it a true community effort.
• Fire Department Support: In early spring, when water lines freeze, the local fire department brings in their trucks to refill the greenhouse’s water barrels, keeping the plants hydrated.
• Winter Veggies: The hydroponic system grows up to 2,400 plants at once, ensuring fresh greens like lettuce and herbs even in extreme winter conditions with only one hour of daylight.

The Inuvik Community Greenhouse is more than just a place to grow food. It serves as a gathering space for the entire community, acting as a hub for local yoga classes and events, and there’s even a café that provides space for people to relax. The greenhouse is a vital resource for local families and businesses in Inuvik, NWT.

We had a great time up north and learned so much about agriculture in the Northwest Territories! If you missed the tour, catch the recording here: WATCH THE TOUR

The next stop of the Great Canadian Farm Tour Season 4 is on Tuesday, November 26 at 11:30 a.m. ET. We are exploring sustainable urban farming in Ontario! You can register for that tour here: REGISTER FOR THE TOUR

Thank you to Farm Credit Canada and Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada for supporting the Great Canadian Farm Tour!