SUN JOURNAL • February 28, 2024
Under the Maine Uniform Building and Energy Code, structures used to grow crops are subject to significant wind and snow load requirements, while structures used to store harvested crops and house livestock are exempt from those same requirements. The Legislature is considering a bill, L.D. 2053, which would create a similar exemption for structures used to grow crops. If it is passed, Mainers could leave structures like hoop houses up year-round, giving them the ability to grow more food without high startup costs. I call on the Legislature to enact this bill, which would support more urban agriculture and continue Maine’s rich agricultural tradition, with palpable health and lifestyle benefits that would echo throughout our communities. ~ Rep. Kathy Shaw, Auburn