News Archives: Greenhouse Partnership at GPRC Fairview
Tuesday, May 6th, 2014
The greenhouses at GPRC Fairview are blooming with life this month, thanks to a new partnership between Green Island Gardens and Grande Prairie Regional College. Doug and Brenda Trider have been in the greenhouse business in Fairview for several years, and have now added the four greenhouses and the header room on the GPRC Fairview campus to their growing space.
The partnership brings life back into the greenhouses, which have not been used for programming at the College for several years. and provides a significant budget saving to GPRC – another great example of College and Community working together!
Green Island Gardens will primarily use the facility to grow commercial for their corporate clients and contract work, leaving their own greenhouses for their retail business.
“They have been working since mid-February to get the facility ready for their purposes, and have done a marvelous job,” says Bill Knudslien, GPRC Director of Facilities Maintenance and Operation. “The partnership is new and this spring is the opportunity to test the viability of the concept, but any exciting possibilities for future projects are already being discussed.
“This is an excellent opportunity for us to enhance our current business,” say the Tritors. “We are busy raising flowers right now, but in the future we hope to grow some vegetables as well to have fresh produce on hand in fall and winter if that seems feasible.”
In addition to raising plants for sale, there is an interest in eventually offering education courses for seniors and youth through Continuing Education.
“This is another great example of Community and College working together,” says Don Gnatiuk, President and CEO. “We have the facilities, the community partner has the expertise and business model, and together we have enhanced opportunities for all concerned. Our strong future together is ensured by this type of initiative.”
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