Adding value to Missouri family farm by incorporating aquaculture into existing farm operation. Expanding prawn and trout into an existing hybrid bluegill operation in a one-year cycle

Project Overview

FNC10-795
Project Type: Farmer/Rancher
Funds awarded in 2010: $5,984.82
Projected End Date: 12/31/2012
Region: North Central
State: Missouri
Project Coordinator:

Information Products

Commodities

  • Animals: fish

Practices

  • Animal Production: feed/forage, feed rations, stocking rate, watering systems
  • Crop Production: food product quality/safety
  • Farm Business Management: new enterprise development, agricultural finance
  • Natural Resources/Environment: soil stabilization
  • Sustainable Communities: local and regional food systems, new business opportunities, public participation, urban agriculture, urban/rural integration, analysis of personal/family life, employment opportunities

    Proposal summary:

    It is no surprise that the farming community in our area is suffering. New and innovative means of making a farm profitable are in demand more than ever. As a father of a newly wedded son, I can see first hand the need to create and develop projects that will enhance my future as well as future generations to come. With aquaculture, we will create much needed income to survive in this very harsh and difficult farm economy. Aquaculture is not only a way to provide for my family but also to provide a sustainable, quality food source for our country. It can be proven, through information provided by Lincoln University of Jefferson City, MO as well as countless other professionals, aquaculture can work in our area. Our operation can introduce this new farm-based commodity to our community. This project requires very little equipment needs and could easily be adapted to other farms with minimal expense. Aquaculture can become a means of survival for small family farmers. This aquaculture project will not only save our farm but will also create jobs for our community. As our aquaculture project grows, we will need to add 1 or 2 full time employees. We would also need to hire several part-time employees to harvest and process the prawn and bluegill.

    Any opinions, findings, conclusions, or recommendations expressed in this publication are those of the author(s) and do not necessarily reflect the view of the U.S. Department of Agriculture or SARE.