If you’re stoked about investing in a Modular Farm but you’re unsure if it’s the right fit for your business goals, romaine calm! Whether you’re a first-time farmer or your family is filled with multi-generational growers, getting involved in modular farming is an exciting opportunity with bountiful rewards! But it’s also a big commitment – literally. It’s never been easier to get growing, but before you do, make sure you understand the spatial, structural, electrical, water and other technical requirements of each system. It’s best to get these things sorted before initiating the big purchase!
The Basics
Both systems – the Primary and Macro Modules – require a small amount of space around the perimeter to allow access to external equipment, like HVAC. If you choose to add on a Vestibule or Sprout Module to your farm, you’ll need even more extra space available on either side of the door. Like the produce you’ll grow in it, each Modular Farm is unique, and requirements can vary depending on the site. Generally, the combined ‘pad’ dimensions should measure 15 m long x 9 m wide.
It’s important to make sure you have a level surface for your new Modular Farm. Substrate/pad materials can include gravel or trap rock, railroad ties (creosote free), Sonotube or concrete slab. Just think of your typical asphalt parking lot – which is also a great spot! Just stay away from softer surfaces like soil and grass to avoid sinking your farm. You’d think this would be common sense, right?
The Modules
Depending on your market size, we have a range of modules to fit your needs. When choosing the best option, the following requirements may make or break your decision. You must ensure your potential area is spatially suited for a Modular Farm and can withstand the much-needed weight.
Primary Module:
Space – 13 m long X 3 m wide X 3 m high
Structural – 8,000 kg
Macro Module:
Space – 13 m long X 3.2 m wide X 3 m high
Structural – 9,000 kg
Vestibule Module:
Space – 3.2 m long X 3.2 m wide x 2.7 m high
Structural – 1,500 kg
Electrical
Each Module requires three-phase, 50-amp service and 130 amps usage at peak. Separate metering is recommended to track electrical usage but is not required if a dedicated/direct hydro service is being provided. Essentially, if you’re not a certified electrician, we recommend you hire one to connect your Modular Farm. We’re buzzed about getting you set up the right way, so we’ll work with your local electricians to facilitate the set-up.
Water
Water supply to your Modular Farm can be provided via soft (garden hose) or hard (pipe) lines. Even if you live where temperatures drop below freezing, we recommend you use a soft, portable and water-safe garden hose. Frozen pipes? Oh, kale, no. Frozen lines are a liability with the potential to create unmanageable costs for new farmers. Your desired location should have optimal water supply, so we highly recommend water quality test before your farm is delivered. This will help determine any water management protocols needed for your crops, and reveal any potential issues with pathogens, bacteria or harmful elements.
Delivery
If you’ve confirmed all of the above requirements for a Modular Farm, yours can be transported to you by land or sea. Your farm will arrive on a flatbed transport or semi-truck. A crane with spreader bar equipment is required for the unloading process, which typically takes three to five hours. No need to fret, the hired transport and equipment operators will take care of the heavy lifting. Modular Farm Field Agents are available for encourage-mint and to ensure a smooth transition so you can get planting as soon as possible.
Vertical farming is no big deal if you have all the requirements. We’re here to help with everything else.
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Have a question now? Contact us at info@modularfarms.com.au or give us a call at +61 1300 040 453