Greenhouse Project

The Naropa University Greenhouse Project was initiated by eight students from the fall 2006 Advanced Applied Horticulture class who envisioned a campus that could exemplify alternative food production methods. Excitement grew, and some of those students carried the project beyond the "class project phase,” introducing it to the greater Naropa community. As the buzz spread, members of the Environmental Studies Department, Facilities, Office of University Advancement, Operations and adjunct faculty members signed on to help, making the project a community effort. Fundraising began and is ongoing. A site near the Naropa Tea House has been chosen for construction of the greenhouse, which is expected to be completed in 2008.

The Design

After much research, project members settled on a geodesic dome design. Delivered as a kit and assembled on site, the greenhouse will be 22 feet in diameter, have an interior area of 379 sq. ft., and reach a height of 10' 10". In addition, permacultural design philosophy will guide construction of the interior. For example, growing space will be maximized through stacking methods and self-sufficiency will be achieved via a one thousand gallon aquarium that moderates temperature and provides fertilizer. With the inclusion of a subterranean heating system and solar panels, the structure is expected to be 100 percent self-sustaining.

An Expression of Naropa's Commitment

The greenhouse will enhance learning opportunities built around horticulture methods, permaculture, ecological system sciences and environmental philosophies such
as deep ecology. In addition, it will provide plants for campus landscaping, vegetables for the Naropa Café
and seedlings for the Boulder community. As a tangible manifestation of Naropa University’s environmental commitment, the greenhouse will inspire the community to both learn more and do more to foster a healthy relationship with nature.