San Antonio’s New Indoor Organic Farm is Revolutionizing Agriculture
San Antonio is buzzing with excitement as an innovative organic farm is lighting up the local agriculture scene. Welcome to the elevated organic farm at Brooks, where tradition meets technology in a truly remarkable way! Recently, we had the opportunity to take a peek inside this state-of-the-art facility, thanks to Matthew Ryan, the ambitious CEO of Soli Organic.
A Peek Inside the Farm
As we strolled through the facility, Ryan shared that the farm officially opened over the summer and it’s the largest indoor organic farm in the world! Can you believe it?
“We grow herbs and leafy greens. Leafy greens are things like spinach, arugula, and lettuces of all sorts, as well as just about all the major herbs,” Ryan explained. The sheer variety of fresh produce available year-round is nothing short of impressive.
Emphasizing Sustainability
While the high-tech environment may look futuristic, Ryan emphasizes that the farm’s operations are still rooted in organic principles. “By growing in soil, we’re able to grow organically using precision in more organic fertilizer. We can’t spread manure in here, so we have to make our own great organic fertilizer,” he added.
It’s worth mentioning that with the looming threat of climate change, food production is becoming increasingly challenging, even in agricultural megastates like California. Ryan indicated that having a controlled environment allows them to manage climate and water more effectively, ensuring customers get fresh products any time of the year. “While it’s high-tech, it’s still growing in soil the way that nature intends,” Ryan said. “We are just doing it in a controlled fashion.”
Challenges in Indoor Farming
Of course, not everything is smooth sailing in the world of indoor farming. Ryan pointed out a few challenges they face. “So it’s not the electricity that costs as much as the people — that’s the number one thing,” he divulged. However, the farm uses significantly less water than traditional farming methods, which is a big win for sustainability.
Ryan also mentioned the importance of a greener electricity grid. “We, like anybody else dependent upon electricity, are hoping for greener solutions,” he stated. “When we can source green electricity, we actually have half the carbon footprint of traditional agriculture. That’s because we’re not shipping stuff around.” Now that’s a stat that really makes you think!
Creating Jobs and Fresh Produce
Soli Organic is not just about fresh greens; it’s also about community. The company employs around 100 people, creating job opportunities for locals. This farm runs 24/7, so there’s always someone on hand to ensure the plants are thriving.
Ryan’s passion for sustainable farming is evident with every word he speaks. His excitement about the potential of this innovative farming method is infectious as he showcases how they blend traditional techniques with modern technology to combat the growing challenges of food production.
Looking Ahead
As we wrapped up our tour, it was clear that this elevated organic farm is not just a new establishment; it’s a bold step toward the future of agriculture in San Antonio. By embracing innovation while respecting nature, Soli Organic shows us how we can all work towards a more sustainable future.
With farmers like Matthew Ryan at the helm, it’s exciting to think about what’s in store for our plates and for those hungry for progress in the agricultural world. So, the next time you bite into a leafy green salad, remember that right here in San Antonio, a new chapter in farming is sprouting!
