By Blake Jackson
A program in Missouri is teaching veterans how to grow food using hydroponics. The program is a partnership between the University of Missouri Extension, the Missouri Institute for Defense and Energy at the University of Missouri-Kansas City, and Veterans Community Project.
Hydroponics is a method of growing plants without soil, using a nutrient-rich solution instead. It is a sustainable and efficient way to grow food, and it can be done in a variety of settings, including urban areas and military bases.
The program is called From Seed to Table. It teaches veterans how to use hydroponics to grow food, as well as business skills and marketing.
The goal of the program is to train 50 military veterans to become beginning farmers. At least half of the participants are expected to move on to full-time employment in agriculture.
The program is already having a positive impact on the veterans who are participating. One participant, Steve, says that the program has given him peace of mind and helped him to calm down. Another participant, Ryan, says that working with plants and produce has helped him to heal.
The partners are committed to making the program a success. They believe that hydroponics can provide a new and exciting career path for veterans. They also believe that hydroponics can help to improve the food security of urban areas and military bases.
Photo Credit: istock-elenathewise
Categories: Missouri, Energy, General