Problem
Resources that serve as a market opportunity for specialty lettuces are available in Tennessee. However, adequate supplies of specialty lettuces grown in the state are not currently available so the market opportunity is filled by out-of-state sources. Simultaneously, there has been an observed increase in the level of excess production capacity in farm greenhouses across the state. Limited production trials indicate potential production success of some specialty lettuces in Tennessee farm greenhouses.

Opportunity
A complete analysis should be conducted to document and evaluate the strengths, weaknesses and critical success factors of developing specialty lettuce production in Tennessee. The study should investigate and describe the production requirements for year-round production in the state. Investigation of harvesting, sorting, collection, cooling and distribution should be included in the study.

Forward Statement
Proposal
Implications