Way to Grow, Erie! Sustainable Building Systems in Hydroponics Tour

As a precursor to Resilient & Healthy Spaces Week in Pittsburgh, Green Building Alliance invites our Erie 2030 District Partners to join us and INTAG Systems for a guided tour of Grow Erie’s 17,000 sq-ft controlled environment agriculture facility located in Savocchio Opportunity Park. Participants will explore how the facility combines hydroponics, greenhouse production, and intentionally designed building equipment and systems to conserve resources and maintain productive growing conditions throughout the year.

Hydroponics is a method of growing plants without soil, using carefully managed, nutrient-rich water to deliver water and nutrients directly to plant roots within a controlled growing environment. 

This tour will highlight sustainability features incorporated into the facility including: 

• An evaporative cooling system that helps regulate greenhouse temperature and humidity 

• A weather station integrated with the HVAC system to respond to changing outdoor conditions 

• Recirculating hydroponic system that can use up to 90% less water than conventional soil-based agriculture 

• Vertical growing methods that increase production within a limited footprint 

• Controlled growing environments that reduce the impact of seasonal weather changes 

• The reuse of water and nutrients throughout the growing process

Participants will also learn how INTAG Systems applies controlled-environment agriculture technology to food production, education, workforce development, and community-based projects. The facility generates food and earned revenue that support Grow Erie’s broader community mission. 

Come see how sustainable building operations and innovative agriculture systems are working together to strengthen Erie’s food system. 

Meet the Tour Guide

Dr. Jesse Maine, Education Program Manager, INTAG Systems

Interested in more Resilient & Healthy Spaces content? Join us for Resilient & Healthy Spaces Week, September 14-18 in Pittsburgh!