In the rugged terrains of Alaska, where the climate is as challenging as it is beautiful, a unique industry thrives against the odds. Greenhouses dot the landscape, serving as beacons of growth and sustainability. This article delves into the lives of Alaskan greenhouse owners, their struggles, and their triumphs, painting a picture of an industry that is as resilient as the people who run it. With a focus on the economic and personal aspects of greenhouse operations in Alaska, we explore the state's largest agricultural sector and the individuals who are redefining what it means to live and work in the Last Frontier.
Alaska's greenhouse industry is a significant contributor to the state's economy. According to the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA), there are 74 commercial greenhouse businesses throughout Alaska, with many more related contractors, nursery, and garden centers. The Anchorage area and Mat-Su Borough are home to 34 of these businesses, 11 are located in the Fairbanks North Star Borough, and 12 on the Kenai Peninsula. These businesses generate combined annual sales of $13.4 million and employ a peak labor force of 450 workers. The broader landscape and nursery sector is estimated to provide employment for approximately 2,000 workers each year. Despite the industry's size, the University of Alaska has historically provided limited support in terms of post-secondary education or workforce development for this sector. However, there is a proposed initiative to design a horticulture program that meets the needs of the industry, including a two-year Associate's Degree program in Horticulture at the University of Alaska.
Charlie Deach, a Midwest transplant and heavy equipment operator by trade, is one such individual who has made his mark in the Alaskan greenhouse industry. For over two decades, Charlie has cultivated roses and grown food in his Juneau greenhouse, aptly named Sunrise Acres. His passion for horticulture is a stark contrast to his rugged profession, showcasing the diverse interests and adaptability of Alaskans.
Despite his success, Charlie has faced his share of challenges, from the high cost of fuel in extreme weather conditions to the frustrations of local law enforcement. His experiences reflect the broader struggles of greenhouse owners in the state, where operating costs can be prohibitive, and the growing season is short. Yet, the long days and warm summer temperatures in Alaska allow for rapid growth and maturity of plants within a condensed timeframe, offering a unique advantage to local growers.
After years of nurturing his greenhouse business, Charlie decided to pursue his ultimate Alaskan dream—a life of solitude and self-reliance in the wilderness. He sold his greenhouse and purchased a hunting lodge on Prince of Wales Island for $1.7 million. His new lifestyle, accessible only by plane, represents the epitome of the Alaskan spirit, embracing the freedom and challenges of the remote wilderness.
The proposed horticulture program at the University of Alaska aims to support the greenhouse industry by providing relevant education and workforce development. With an investment of $171,000, the program seeks to equip future generations with the skills necessary to sustain and grow this vital sector of the Alaskan economy.
The greenhouse industry in Alaska is a testament to the tenacity and ingenuity of its people. From the economic impact to the personal stories of individuals like Charlie Deach, greenhouses represent more than just a means of cultivation—they symbolize the Alaskan way of life. As the industry continues to evolve, education and support from institutions like the University of Alaska will be crucial in ensuring its continued success and contribution to the state's economy.
For more information on the greenhouse industry and its impact on Alaska, visit the USDA National Agricultural Statistics Service and the University of Alaska's Cooperative Extension Service.
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