Greenprint - Nikini Consultants

Our project began with the SAP’s lack of water resources, specifically a washing station for their produce. It presents a challenge for the SAP’s workers and volunteers to haul their vegetables all the way to GVSU’s Allendale campus simply to clean them. Our work thus far has included outside research, stakeholder mapping, and brainstorming all possible solutions to this problem. 

From what we have gathered, rainwater collection was determined to be the most cost-effective strategy in sourcing water. Comparatively, piping water directly is the most expensive option and presents the most legal challenges. Recycling water can be costly as well if in-depth filtration is required. If the SAP desires potable water, then the general consensus recommends in-line UV radiation filtration which is costly but extremely effective. We also considered the nearby well as a possible source of water in addition to a rain barrel system. Any of these water sources could be pumped into a sink within the hoop houses where the produce is grown, thereby capitalizing on convenience.