Introduction to Backyard Aquaponic Gardening

Event ID: P10462
Info: Sep 26 • Sat • 2:00-4:30pm • 1 mtg • Olomana Gardens, Waimanalo (go mauka on Kumuhau from Kalanianaole Hwy, then right onto Waikupanaha, continuing to 41-1140: park inside gate or on road) • $50, plus (one person only) cost of materials, payable to Olomana Gardens, to take home the system started in class • Long sleeve shirt, pants, shoes, and nontoxic insect repellant recommended
With: Olomana Gardens

Discover the basics of aquaponics, the marriage of aquaculture with hydroponics, and considerations for building a system. Using methods adapted from Dr. James Rakocy, University of the Virgin Islands, learn how to create a simple integrated system that recirculates effluent from a fish tank through a separate container where plants are grown, and returns the filtered water to the fish tank, where the cycle repeats. Includes opportunity to ask questions, socialize with staff and students, and stay after class to watch a video about aquaponics.

Glenn Martinez, Elizabeth "Liz" Mandeville Martinez, and the staff of Olomana Gardens are dedicated to serving the local community through their old-style Hawaiian tropical garden that is a model for modern, sustainable agriculture. Their diverse population of farm animals includes two horses; a hundred plus birds (chickens, ducks, turkeys, geese); goats; a rabbit; and thousands of composting worms, which turn organic waste and manures into natural fertilizer. They have natural, spring-fed aquaculture ponds, which are home to koi, tilapia, bullfrogs, and turtles. They grow organic fruit and vegetables and offer for sale natural chicken and duck eggs, selected exotic chicken pets, composting and tiller worms, worm compost, selected organic plants and produce, and organic pallet gardens for delivery. School tours featuring agricultural activities are a regular feature.