I've got to admit, the idea of producing my own food appeals to me. With over 25 years working in the aquaculture industry, I'm still hoping to have my own fish farm someday. My husband has quite a prolific garden, so I feel like it's up to me to provide the protein. One way to raise fish and vegetables together is through aquaponics. Aquaponics is the merging of aquaculture and hydroponics. In this closed system, the fish produce waste that feed the plants and the plants clean the water, which is then returned to the fish habitat. Of course it's not quite as simple as that, but you get the idea. This method of food production is not new; however, we are seeing a renewed interest. I get at least 2 or 3 requests for information weekly.
Many see aquaponics as a way to eat locally, create sustainable communities and enhance food security. It can be done on a small scale and just may be part of the solution to the problem of fresh, healthy produce and protein, especially in urban areas. Aquaponics offers a system to grow fish and vegetables in a limited space, with minimal inputs. It can also serve as a way to conserve water while producing protein and veggies at a family scale, and it can be done in places where soil quality is poor and water is scarce.
Some see this form of food production and the associated businesses (processing, distribution, retail) as a great way to revitalize urban areas. There are some good examples of organizations that have used existing urban resources such as abandoned buildings to house these systems. Providing jobs and nutrition education are goals often integrated into these operations. Unfortunately, there is not a lot of research-based information on how to accomplish this. While we know that we can raise both fish and plants with this type of system, the question remains, can we do it profitably?
Of course, as with all new ideas, there are many people trying to capitalize on this growing sector of food production. There are people who sell the systems and equipment, offer training, or sell the fish and plants. While the majority, I'm sure, are honest and good intentioned, I always recommend caution in any new endeavor and stress the importance of preparing a business plan for your operation. As Dr. James Rakocy wrote in a recent article in the Aquaponics Journal, "This is a problem that is plaguing the emerging aquaponics industry today. Too many people are claiming to be experts with little or no training and little or no experience, which is resulting in a lot of system failures. Without sufficient training and experience, there is a lack of perspective and unintended consequences for decisions even if the intentions are good."
So, for those who are so inclined, I encourage you to embrace aquaponics! Do your homework and share your knowledge and experience with others. Remember, I'm always available for taste testing! I did eat a Hungarian wax pepper grown in an Ohio aquaponics system recently and it was delicious.
