Project Overview
Commodities
- Agronomic: rice
- Vegetables: celery, greens (leafy)
- Additional Plants: herbs
Practices
- Education and Training: demonstration
- Energy: energy conservation/efficiency
- Production Systems: aquaponics
Proposal summary:
My research project is centered on the evaluation of crop
sustainability within a cold-water aquaponics system, employing a
deep-water methodology. The primary objective is to establish the
feasibility of plant cultivation in this system without the
necessity of external heating. This is achieved through the
utilization of cold-resistant plants and bacteria.
The project's success will be measured by assessing the volume of
produce cultivated and sold in local markets and food hubs, with
the project's financial viability determined by analyzing the net
profit margin at the end of the season.
Additionally, the research incorporates a control aquaponics bed
to provide a comparative basis for the evaluation.
By showcasing the potential of aquaponics systems and seasonal
crop cultivation in the state of Washington, this project offers
a resource-efficient and cost-effective alternative for
individuals interested in adopting aquaponic farming practices.
This approach eliminates the need for costly heating systems.
Furthermore, the project serves as an educational platform,
emphasizing the adaptability of aquaponic systems throughout
different seasons.
Dissemination of the project's findings will occur through
various channels, including workshops, article publications,
lectures, and online platforms, enabling broad outreach and
awareness. This comprehensive approach ensures effective
communication of the project's message, fostering understanding
and engagement among diverse audiences.
Project objectives from proposal:
The central objective of this project revolves around assessing
the feasibility of cultivating crops in a cold-water aquaponics
system, utilizing a deep-water methodology to ensure long-term
sustainability. To gauge the effectiveness of this approach, we
will closely monitor the quantity of crops sold in local markets
and neighboring food hubs, with a keen focus on evaluating its
financial viability, measured through the net profit margin at
the season's conclusion. We will also be implementing a heated
system as a control for comparative analysis.
Through this initiative, we aim to underscore the considerable
potential of aquaponics within the state of Washington. Our
intent is to highlight the array of seasonal produce that can be
successfully cultivated without the necessity of expensive
heating systems. We aspire to provide an alternative perspective
on sustainable farming, offering a model that can inspire and
guide others within the agricultural community.
Furthermore, this project carries significant educational value.
By showcasing a sustainable aquaponics system that aligns with
the constraints of seasonal growth, we aim to facilitate
knowledge dissemination and encourage the adoption of
environmentally friendly practices within the broader aquaponics
community.