We've Got The County Covered
We've Got The County Covered
The Fort Belknap Community Economic Development Corporation (FBCEDC) is spearheading a groundbreaking geothermal greenhouse initiative at the Wasay Wakpa Community Gardens, located in Lodgepole on the south side of the Fort Belknap Reservation. The project, one of only four in Montana, is a first-of-its-kind, DIY endeavor designed to provide a comprehensive blueprint for others interested in replicating this model. With a 162-foot “Greenhouse in the Snow” already purchased, the greenhouse will promote year-round food production, sustainability, and food sovereignty for the Fort Belknap Indian Reservation.
FBCEDC has detailed every step of the process, from planning and grant writing to material sourcing, and plans to make this information accessible on its website. The project has already secured $25,000 in grants, matched by community contributions. However, $46,000 is still needed to complete critical infrastructure, including insulation, geothermal pipes, and energy-efficient cooling systems.
This initiative will not only strengthen local food security but also serve as a model for sustainable agriculture and renewable energy. It aims to inspire further regional adoption of green practices while providing long-term benefits to the community through training, workshops, and reinvestment of produce sales into future projects.
