Hello Everyone! this was an informative week were I was able to visit multiple Aquaponic Farm as well as shadowing meetings with my mentor Neith. Aquaponics is a sustainable agricultural system that combines aquaculture (raising fish) with hydroponics (growing plants without soil). This system is water efficient with it being able to use less water than traditional agriculture because the water is constantly recirculating rather than being drained out. As well as the fish being able to provide all the necessary nutrients that eliminate the need for added chemicals making there be no need for synthetic fertilizers. The best part about aquaponics is that it can create faster growing plants due to the constant supply of nutrient rich water.
Figure 1. (Shadowing on a Aquaponic Farm visit)
While visiting these farms I learned that Aquaponic has many benefits within agriculture but also has its issues. A problem affecting the fish can impact plant growth, and changes in water conditions can affect the entire system. I also learned about the practical challenges farmers face like maintaining power supplies, controlling temperatures during colder months, and ensuring the system remains balanced year-round. One of the major things farms can face with aquaponic is this cost, equipment to start or continue this type of farming can be costly. These experiences gave me a better appreciation for the technical and environmental knowledge required to operate sustainable food production systems.
Figure 2. (Plantation Park Heights Urban Farm)
As an aspiring hydrologist, these lessons support my work this summer by expanding my understanding of water beyond urban infrastructure and wetlands. They have shown me how water can be used efficiently to support agriculture and food security. With hydroponic being the study of water it would be important to learn about the organisms that live in it and need it to survive. This will help me think more openly about sustainable water management and the role water plays in supporting ecosystems, communities, and agriculture.
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