An expansive 3-acre facility dedicated to cultivating a variety of leafy greens is up and running in Pasco.

Local Bounti’s facility at 950 S. Elm Ave. uses a patented technology that “seamlessly blends the advantages of vertical and greenhouse cultivation, setting the stage for a new era in sustainable agriculture,” the company said.

The technology is called “stack and flow.”

Local Bounti will use it to cultivate leafy greens such as spring mix, green leaf, red and green leaf blend, butter lettuce and romaine crisp for the Pacific Northwest market. “These premium greens are carefully nurtured in our state-of-the-art facility, ensuring they reach consumers at the peak of freshness, flavor and nutritional value,” the company said.

It also will be expanding its chef-inspired line of Grab & Go Salad kids featuring greens from the Pasco facility. Varieties include Artisanal Chicken Caesar, Memphis Style BBQ Chicken, Sweet Poppy Power and Modern Greek.

The Pasco facility recently became operational.

The Montana-based Local Bounti launched in 2018, announcing its Pasco plans in 2021. Construction on the multimillion facility got underway that year but paused for a time in 2022 while Local Bounti closed a deal to acquire the California-based indoor farming company Hollandia Produce Group, Inc., which operates as Pete’s.

Work at the Pasco site resumed that fall.

Local Bounti chose Pasco because of its strong agricultural roots and its location near major Pacific Northwest markets. “Furthermore, our decision aligns with our commitment to supporting local communities and delivering farm-fresh products closer to customers and consumers,” the company said in a statement.

With stack and flow, plants spend their early development in stacked nurseries and then are transported to hydroponic greenhouses. The technology results in higher yields while using less water, land and pesticides than traditional farming methods, the company said.

“This commitment to sustainability aligns with our mission to revolutionize the agricultural landscape and reduce our environmental impact,” the company said.

The Pasco facility is a key component in Local Bounti’s mission, the company said.

Local Bounti didn’t disclose construction costs or the number of employees who will work in Pasco but said the South Elm Avenue facility will be “a hub of activity.” The “skilled professionals (working there) will contribute their expertise to ensure the success of the facility and the production of top-notch, locally-grown products,” the company said.

Local Bounti is “thrilled to become a part of the vibrant Pasco community, bringing with us a commitment to providing fresh, local and delicious products to the Pacific Northwest,” the company said. “We are excited about the opportunities this facility creates, not only for our company but also for the local economy and the environment. Our pledge to sustainability and community engagement remains unwavering, and we look forward to contributing positively to Pasco and the broader Pacific Northwest region.”