US (MN): Massive greenhouse project proposed for Windham

A team of investors and developers has come together to propose building a massive, 1.7 million square foot greenhouse complex in the Quarry Ridge Industrial Park. The project, called Sebago Farms, calls for three greenhouses that will grow hydroponic tomatoes, cucumbers, lettuce and herbs, have large pens to raise fish and includes an area to study algae to use as a nutritional supplement and as a source for biofuel. The entire complex will generate its own power using highly efficient natural gas engines, with the potential to generate more for other businesses in the surrounding area.

"We are trying to be as environmentally friendly, as small a footprint, as possible, and as little waste as possible to make food, and fuel eventually, for local consumption," explained John der Kinderen, one of the projects developers. "This is just a very preliminary plan," added der Kinderen. "This is the very beginning of the process. Many things could happen. Many changes could take place. We've just presented it to the town at this point." The project is expected to employ about 170 people. If all the necessary plans come together, der Kinderen hopes to start construction on the greenhouses in March, with production beginning as early as the end of the year.

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