Building Model Networks Among Dairy, Vegetable and Floriculture Operations to Grow and Use Shelled Corn for Greenhouse Heat in Massachusetts
In spring 2008, UMass extension began a project that focuses on using locally grown shelled corn as an alternative fuel to heat greenhouses. Corn is a renewable heat source that can be grown and used in Massachusetts more cheaply than fossil fuels, using available and proven technology. The production of shelled corn for feed was largely abandoned in New England because of cheap corn available from the Midwest. As the cost of corn from outside the region rises along with fossil fuels, the equation shifts. Several dairy and vegetable farmers who have returned to the production and use of shelled corn for feed and/or for heat are finding a positive net income from their investments. Former and current dairy farmers can use or sell shelled corn for either feed or fuel. Vegetable farms that have started growing grain corn find benefits to their crop rotation systems, reduced costs of fuel for their greenhouses, as well as a new crop to sell. However, barriers in equipment, knowledge and marketing links need to be overcome to bring this fuel into more widespread use. Producers need to be assured of a market, users need to know there will be adequate supply, and both need to know that the system will be reliable, profitable and sustainable. This project will help develop the necessary links between producers and users, and will evaluate the cost and benefits for both. You can find out more about this project here: Corn Heat Project.
If you are looking for local sources of shelled corn, see the list here.
If you are looking for local sources of corn burning furnaces and boilers, see the list here.
If you're thinking about transitioning to corn as a fuel source for heating your greenhouse and would like to hear about the experiences of other growers who've made the jump, you will soon be able to read about them here. As we work with growers who are installing and using corn furnaces we will develop case studies and post them up here for your benefit. We will be tracking labor and other expenses over the next two years. Check back here for the numbers - we'll post the first years report early this summer:
-Brox Farm Case Study - Part 1
-Atlas Farm Case Study
-Ravenwold Farm Case Study
New DEP Regulations for Outdoor Hydronic Heater (OHH) (Wood-FiredBoilers) Now in Effect!
Finalized new MA Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) regulations pertaining to Outdoor Hydronic Heaters (OHHS) (Wood or Corn Fired Boilers) are now effective 12/26/08. The finalized regulations and a fact sheet are now posted on DEP's website at: http://www.mass.gov/dep/air/laws/regulati.htm#owb. It is important for anyone considering purchasing and installing a new outdoor boiler and anyone who has an existing outdoor boiler to familiarize themselves with the new regulations to ensure compliance. DEP is the first point of contact with questions regarding their regulations @ 617-292-5868,while Gerry Palano, Renewable Energy Coordinator @ MDAR, Gerald.Palano@state.ma.us, 617-626-1706, will be glad to assist you as well in any way he can regarding this matter.
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