Inmates at the Hernando County Detention Center will be enjoying the fruits of their labor in the near future; actually lettuce to be more accurate. On October 21st, the first hydroponic crop of lettuce was planted at the facility within a 24’ x 36’ greenhouse equipped with electricity and running water. Now several of the 448 heads of lettuce are about a foot in diameter and ready to harvest.
Deputy Sessa led the efforts to build the structure. With the help of inmates, the construction only took between two and three weeks to complete. Sheriff Nienhuis said it was like putting together a giant puzzle.
Deputy Balish oversees the inmates and the hydroponic operation. Balish has a farming background, but had never undertaken hydroponics. He explained that it’s a great way to grow crops here in Florida, since it reduces damage caused by pests. He also stated that it is an effective program for the inmates since it gives them tremendous pride to grow their own food.
Only a select few are chosen to work in the Hydroponics program, but the skills they learn help them in finding a trade following their release. The inmates are all on track for release who take part in the program. The first inmate who worked in the program has already been released and is pursuing hydroponics at his home, as well as teaching his neighbors.
Inmate Kyle is now learning the art of hydroponics and says “you get out of it what you put in.” He explained that it is a lot of work and maintenance, but worth the effort. Everyday he cleans the tubs that the lettuce grows in, prunes the dead leaves and maintains the pH. He spends anywhere from 30 minutes to 2 and a half hours working in the greenhouse everyday, depending on what needs to be done. Kyle enjoyed working in his garden at home and had some prior hydroponic experience.
Deputy Balish explained they started out with lettuce since it’s the easiest to grow, but plan to branch out to tomatoes, peppers and cucumbers. It sounds like the Hernando County Detention Center will be the place to go for a great salad.
