Learn Closed-Loop Food Production At The Plant's Fundraising Dinner

By Jennifer A. Freeman in Food on Feb 26, 2014 10:10PM

Photo credit: Rachel Swenie, plantchicago

The latest round of arctic cold may have pushed thoughts of fresh fruits and veggies right out of your head, but The Plant isn’t waiting for spring growing season. This vertical farm housed in a repurposed industrial building in Back of the Yards is hosting a fundraising dinner Thursday night at the Revolution Brewing's Avondale Tap Room.

For those unfamiliar with the closed-loop food production facility, this dinner is a great introduction. Executive Director John Edel will give a presentation to help even the uninitiated understand the “closed cycle” vision of The Plant. For example, The Plant raises tilapia, which eliminate waste. That waste is used to fertilize the crops grown at The Plant and those plants are used to feed the fish.

Staff from The Plant will be present to answer questions, along with a mushroom display and some of the fish. If you’re a fan of urban farming, sustainable farming, renewable energy or just building business in Chicago, this is an event worth supporting.

Tomorrow’s dinner will feature a seasonal dinner from Pilsen’s Fig catering, which also follows The Plant's locally sourced guidelines, and frozen yogurt flavors like blueberry lavender from Yoberri. There will, of course, be craft beers from Revolution Brewing and wine from Rainier Wines. In addition to the ticket cost, a silent auction will raise money for The Plant with prizes from Comrade Cycles, Patagonia and local Chicago artists.

Buy tickets online today for $75 to save $20 off the door price.

The Plant is located at 1400 W. 46th St.

Seeds for Success will be held Thursday, Feb 27 from 6-9 p.m. at Revolution Brewery Tap Room, 3340 N. Kedzie Ave.