Federal funding built your neighbor's tunnel. Here's how it works.
USDA's EQIP High Tunnel System initiative helps growers cover the cost of a new tunnel. The program is national, but the rates, deadlines, and paperwork are set state by state. Start with the overview, then open the guide for your state.
Gothic high tunnels in the fieldWhat the High Tunnel System initiative actually is.
It is a conservation practice (code 325) funded through the Environmental Quality Incentives Program. NRCS treats a high tunnel as a conservation improvement: it extends the growing season, reduces pesticide and nutrient runoff, and improves soil and plant quality. Because it counts as conservation, the agency will pay a share of what it costs you to build one.
You apply through your local NRCS service center, not through us. If your contract is funded, you buy and raise the structure, then get reimbursed at your state's payment rate. Our job is the part in the middle: a structure engineered to the practice standard and the spec sheets and documentation for your file. For the full application walkthrough, eligibility rules, and payment details, read our complete NRCS funding guide.
- Paid per square footRates are set annually by each state, and beginning, veteran, and historically underserved farmers often qualify for higher rates.
- Application windows, not rollingMost states run one or more batching periods per fiscal year. Miss the window and you wait for the next one.
- Don't buy before you're approvedConstruction generally has to start after the contract is signed. Buying early can disqualify the structure.
- A quote when they ask for oneSome states ask for a vendor quote for the size you want during the application. That varies state to state, and we'll have one ready.
The NRCS process, everywhere in the country.
Details differ by state, but the shape of the process does not.
Talk to your local office
Find your NRCS service center and ask for the district conservationist. Mention the High Tunnel System initiative, practice 325. They confirm eligibility, this year's rate, and the deadline.
Get your paperwork in order
Most offices want farm records, a conservation plan, and proof the site is in agricultural production; some also ask for a vendor quote at this stage.
Apply and wait for ranking
Applications are ranked against others in your state. Funding decisions come after the batching period closes: typically weeks, sometimes months.
Build, then get reimbursed
Once the contract is signed you purchase the kit and raise it. Payment follows per your contract terms. We size for your snow and wind and stay on the phone through the build.
How much will NRCS actually pay?
Payment is calculated per square foot at a rate your state sets each fiscal year, up to a size cap. Growers commonly see a large share of structure cost covered, but the number varies enough by state and year that only your local office can tell you what applies to you.
Can I apply if I'm just starting out?
Yes. Beginning farmers are a priority group in most states and often qualify for a higher payment rate. You generally need to show the land is in agricultural production and have a farm number on file with FSA.
Do I have to use a specific manufacturer?
No. NRCS approves the structure against the practice standard, not the brand. What matters is that the tunnel meets the engineering requirements, which is why every kit we ship comes with spec sheets and documentation matched to that standard.
How long does the whole process take?
Plan on months, not weeks. From application to a signed contract is commonly one to two batching cycles, and you build after that. Growers who start the conversation a full season ahead have a much easier time.
Can I apply for more than one tunnel?
Program limits vary, and some states cap total square footage per operation or per contract. Several of our customers have funded additional structures in later years. Ask your district conservationist how your state handles repeat applications.
Let's get your paperwork moving.
Tell us your state and county. We'll size a structure for your snow and wind load, send the spec sheets, documentation, and an itemized quote, and keep them on file until your contract comes through.
CT Greenhouse is not affiliated with USDA or NRCS. Everything above is general guidance from a manufacturer who works with these programs often. Program rules, cost-share rates, eligibility, and deadlines are set by NRCS, vary by state and year, and should always be confirmed with your local office.
We stand by our products with a price match guarantee.
Learn morePolaris theme designed by epicShops