Developing a hydroponic technology to increase local food production capacity in northern British Columbia

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The College of New Caledonia and QuantoTech Solutions Ltd. are continuing their applied research partnership to develop and commercialize an industrial-scale hydroponics system. The Cubic Grow System is housed in a standard shipping container and will allow enterprising growers and communities in northern Canada to produce their own food year-round. This study will be conducted at CNC Quesnel Campus and proposes innovative approaches in the areas of hydroponics, LED lighting, remote crop monitoring and energy efficiency. This project has the following objectives: (i) assist a Canadian technology company conduct applied research that will help commercialize a new technology for growing food in cold climates, (ii) introduce horticulture technology into communities across northern Canada that will provide new entrepreneurial opportunities, support local food markets, and increase community health indicators by increasing access to locally grown, fresh food, even in winter, and (iii) develop advanced horticulture and applied research skills in College students studying horticulture and business. Students in CNC's Horticulture, Marketing and Business programs will participate in this project and will acquire valuable skills related to best practices and innovation in profitable hydroponic greenhouse growing and marketing. These skills will help our students successfully access the emerging greenhouse, hydroponics, and horticulture job markets across Canada upon completion of the project.