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 consumers throughout the Willamette Valley. “As a family company, were committed not only to our consumers however to being excellent stewards of the Earth and community,” said Brian Bauman, co-owner and Elizabeths great, terrific grandson. That dedication to sustainability has prompted Baumans to gradually purchase energy performance for more than a decade– cutting yearly natural gas usage by an approximated 55,000 therms and providing annual energy expense savings of approximately $42,200.
Last year, when it was time to set up a new greenhouse, Baumans connected to greenhouse vendor OBC Northwest, Inc. for an energy-efficient model made 100% of twin-wall polycarbonate. “Although its a big space with two bays and 14-foot sidewalls, the temperature in the greenhouse stays quite constant,” said Bauman. The greenhouses polycarbonate has a pigment that diffuses light, supplying exceptional light quality for plant growth. Roofing vents in each bay allow for natural ventilation. The gable design has an internal truss that can accommodate a motorized nighttime thermal drape, which Baumans strategies to install in the future.
Because of twin-wall technology, the greenhouse is expected to save an estimated $10,700 in yearly natural gas costs compared to single-wall building. Baumans received an Energy Trust of Oregon cash incentive of $2,400 to help balance out the included cost.
Baumans has actually gotten more than $80,000 in Energy Trust rewards. “We make the most of Energy Trusts offerings every opportunity we get. Rest guaranteed, well be doing more jobs in the future,” said Bauman.
Could your nursery gain from energy-efficiency upgrades? Have a look at the current no- and low-priced ideas and resources to make your business run much better, see www.energytrust.org/for-business or call 1.888.777.4479.