Dr. Most Tahera Naznin, PhD, Associate Professor of urban & indoor agriculture at the University of Nevada, Reno, explained that, despite apparent stagnation, the industry itself continues to grow rapidly, supported by technological advancements. “Indoor vertical farming systems have evolved from a specialist invention to a significant component of the greater agricultural sector,” she said.

She outlined the following ways VFs today have proved fruitful:

• Developing high-value, quick-growing crops such as leafy vegetables,
  herbs and medicinal plants.
• Adding indoor vertical farming solutions to urban agriculture
  and food desert areas.
• Creating year-round specialty crop production opportunities.
• Reducing import dependency and improving food safety production

Innovative Extension program will educate prospective indoor farmers and residents. From the outside, the North Las Vegas Learning Center appears to be just another ordinary office building. But step inside and you will discover an innovative indoor farm where rows of leafy, vibrant vegetables flourish in vertical towers and tiered metal racks. With the controlled atmosphere, the room feels like an oasis, an escape from the scorching Las Vegas desert.

Inside, Most Tahera Naznin, an associate professor of urban and indoor agriculture at the University of Nevada, Reno’s College of Agriculture, Biotechnology & Natural Resources, carefully examines a freshly harvested crop of lettuce. Today, her team has gathered about 300 heads of lettuce and an assortment of culinary herbs. While she sets aside a portion for research, the rest is swiftly transported to a local food bank, providing fresh, nutrient-rich greens to community members at risk of malnutrition.