Growing Greener: Bauman’s Farm & Garden

Founded by Elizabeth Bauman in 1895, Baumans Farm & & Garden in Gervais has a long history of supplying trees, flowers, produce, pies and more to customers throughout the Willamette Valley. “As a family service, were committed not only to our customers however to being great stewards of the Earth and neighborhood,” said Brian Bauman, co-owner and Elizabeths great, great grandson. That commitment to sustainability has prompted Baumans to gradually invest in energy performance for more than a years– cutting annual natural gas use by an approximated 55,000 therms and providing annual energy expense savings of roughly $42,200.
In 2015, when it was time to set up a brand-new greenhouse, Baumans reached out to greenhouse supplier OBC Northwest, Inc. for an energy-efficient model made 100% of twin-wall polycarbonate. “Although its a large area with two bays and 14-foot sidewalls, the temperature level in the greenhouse remains quite constant,” said Bauman. The greenhouses polycarbonate has a pigment that diffuses light, offering exceptional light quality for plant development. Roofing vents in each bay enable natural ventilation. The gable design has an internal truss that can accommodate a motorized nighttime thermal drape, which Baumans strategies to set up in the future.
The greenhouse is expected to save an estimated $10,700 in yearly natural gas costs compared to single-wall building and construction because of twin-wall technology. Baumans received an Energy Trust of Oregon money reward of $2,400 to assist offset the added expense.
Baumans has gotten more than $80,000 in Energy Trust incentives. “We benefit from Energy Trusts offerings every opportunity we get. Rest ensured, well be doing more jobs in the future,” stated Bauman.
Could your nursery gain from energy-efficiency upgrades? Take a look at the current no- and low-priced tips and resources to make your organization run better, check out www.energytrust.org/for-business or call 1.888.777.4479.