Posted on Jul 10, 2019
Would hydro/aquaponic growing systems be good to have a locations at VAMC's nationwide?
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I was talking to a groups of veterans and was tossing around the idea of having a type of garden that May help facilitate PTSD relief. This could potentially supplement food usage in the VAMC kitchens nationwide. This way the VA would get relief in the supply aspect. If the Veterans started eating healthier the VA would get relieved from prescription medications as much. We could even possibly turn it into a farmers market so the homeless Vet's have an avenue to make some money. There are so many benefits to this. What do you all think?
Farming
Homeless
Food Production
Department of Veterans Affairs (VA)
VHA
Posted >1 y ago
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CPT Jack Durish
PFC James (LURCH) Janota - Please do not be dissuaded by my cynicism. I've had far too many dealings with bureaucrats in the Administrative State
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PFC James (LURCH) Janota
I do see your point though. We are, after all talking about a government entity!
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I recall many years ago, that an asylum I frequently drove past had a good-size farm on the grounds. As you indicated, it supplied fresh food for the patients, and was also good therapy for many of the inmates.
The farm was abandoned, and the reason I heard (true or false) was that the local farmers wanted to sell their crops to that institution, and complained that "inmate labor" was employed against the sale of their crops. That's something to consider in setting up such a program. It can be a good idea, but disruption of the status quo will make enemies.
The farm was abandoned, and the reason I heard (true or false) was that the local farmers wanted to sell their crops to that institution, and complained that "inmate labor" was employed against the sale of their crops. That's something to consider in setting up such a program. It can be a good idea, but disruption of the status quo will make enemies.
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CPT Jack Durish
Again, PFC James (LURCH) Janota 's observation is correct but don't be dissuaded by such things. There will always be someone displaced by implementing a new approach. Just keep in mind the balance of cost to benefit. It will cost the outside vegetable monger some small part of their business to be balanced against the ultimate good of the endeavor
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CW3 Harvey K.
CPT Jack Durish - Yep. It comes down to a question of the power of those whose apple cart is upset. That would have to be balanced by the "optics" of opposing an economic, cost reducing program, with additional therapeutic benefit to veterans.
I only warn that trouble can be expected. Plan for it.
I only warn that trouble can be expected. Plan for it.
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