The Washoe County Board of Commissioners is mulling how gardening hoop houses should be regulated, if at all. Our contributor Bob Conrad of ThisisReno has the story.
Local farmers spoke at Tuesday's commission meeting and asked that hoop houses, also called high tunnels, be exempt from code requirements.
Farmer Wendy Baroli says current regulations hamper the ability for small farmers to be profitable.
"We are considered a food desert state. The more urban, rural and suburban ways that we are growing food in our local community, the better for everybody," Baroli explained. "And it's good for our economy."
The board also expressed concern, and Commissioner Marsha Berkbigler says the county should proceed cautiously with any regulations.
"We have to find a way to stop being so intrusive (with) these properties in the rural areas of the county," she said.
Any changes will need to go through further review by commissioners.