Growing Greener: Bauman’s Farm & Garden

Founded by Elizabeth Bauman in 1895, Bauman’s Farm & Garden in Gervais has a long history of providing trees, flowers, produce, pies and more to customers throughout the Willamette Valley. “As a family business, we’re committed not only to our customers but to being good stewards of the Earth and community,” said Brian Bauman, co-owner and Elizabeth’s great, great grandson. That commitment to sustainability has prompted Bauman’s to steadily invest in energy efficiency for more than a decade—cutting yearly natural gas use by an estimated 55,000 therms and delivering annual energy cost savings of approximately $42,200.

Last year, when it was time to install a new greenhouse, Bauman’s reached out to greenhouse vendor OBC Northwest, Inc. for an energy-efficient model made 100% of twin-wall polycarbonate. “Although it’s a large space with two bays and 14-foot sidewalls, the temperature in the greenhouse stays quite constant,” said Bauman. The greenhouse’s polycarbonate has a pigment that diffuses light, providing excellent light quality for plant growth. Roof vents in each bay allow for natural ventilation. The gable design has an internal truss that can accommodate a motorized nighttime thermal curtain, which Bauman’s plans to install in the future.

Because of twin-wall technology, the greenhouse is expected to save an estimated $10,700 in annual natural gas costs compared to single-wall construction. Bauman’s received an Energy Trust of Oregon cash incentive of $2,400 to help offset the added cost.

Baumans has received more than $80,000 in Energy Trust incentives. “We take advantage of Energy Trust’s offerings every chance we get. Rest assured, we’ll be doing more projects in the future,” said Bauman.

Could your nursery benefit from energy-efficiency upgrades? Check out the latest no- and low-cost tips and resources to make your business run better, visit www.energytrust.org/for-business or call 1.888.777.4479.