ADDRESSING FOOD INSECURITY IN MANITOBA
BY BRINGING ZERO-WASTE TECHNIQUES TO THE TABLE
What is Aquaponics?
Aquaponics is the combination of aquaculture (fish farming), hydroponics (growing plants without soil in nutrient rich water), and microorganisms. The product is a synergistic and environmentally sustainable growing technique in which both fish and plants are grown together in the same system without needing to discard water or add chemical fertilizers.
Aquaponics solves many of the problems and environmental issues associated with aquaculture and hydroponics while retaining the benefits of both. It’s essentially zero-waste agriculture.
WHAT WE PROVIDE
- State-of-the-art Nelson and Pade aquaponics equipment and MBTI lab facility to accommodate up to 20 high school students
- Available training programs (up to two sessions per week per class)
- Trained personnel to work with school instructors in facilitating lab work and classroom learning.
Activities include:
- Seeding + harvesting
- Monitoring crops and fish
- Testing + water quality maintenance
- Scouting for insects + abnormalities
- Managing lab inventory
SUPPORTING LIFELONG LEARNING
By actively working to maintain a healthy aquaponics ecosystem, this hands-on initiative allows students to gain exposure to the sustainable, and nutritional benefits of aquaponics farming while also learning how to build and operate their own aquaponics systems.
While MBTI’s Aquaponics Greenhouse acts as a free learning tool for students rather than a revenue stream, a core part of the curriculum focuses on the socioeconomic impacts of food production – specifically in addressing food insecurity.
OUR PROGRAM PARTNERS
Aquaculture
The selective breeding of fish with the purpose of producing a food source for consumption.
Hydroponics
A method of growing plants without soil, by instead using mineral nutrient solutions in a water solvent.
Horticulture
The science and art of the development, sustainable production, marketing, and use of high-value, intensively cultivated food and ornamental plants.
Management
Students will be accountable for routine maintenance and management of the aquaponic equipment.
Food Services
Students will have the opportunity to learn food about packaging, product marketing and supply chain management.
Sustainability
Through exposure to zero-waste agriculture, students will learn how to support the local economy and promote healthy living.
