Thaxton, B.1, O’Connor, R.2, Verlinde, C.1, and Pickens, J.3

1Extension Agents, UF/IFAS Extension – Santa Rosa Co., Milton, FL 32570
2Extension Agent, UF/IFAS Extension – Escambia Co., Cantonment, FL 32533
3Research Associate, Auburn University – Ornamental Horticulture Station, Mobile, AL 36689

There is great interest in sustainable food production in today’s society. Aquaponics is an exciting production system where fish and plants grow in harmony. The aquaponic system can be a fun project for the home gardener but can also become a new farming venture. The objectives of the event were to attract a minimum of 30 interested participants, 75% of participants were to gain knowledge on several topics, and for participants to construct a small aquaponics system. The full-day workshop began with presentations on aquaponics topics including fish, plants, systems, and rules and regulations. The hands-on afternoon session allowed participants to build a small aquaponics system and a field trip to a small commercial aquaponics farm. A total of 40 people attended the event, 30 filled out an end of program post-pre test evaluation. Evaluations indicated 86% gained knowledge on the basics of aquaponics, 86% gained knowledge of plants in aquaponics, 90% gained knowledge of fish in aquaponics, 93% gained knowledge on Florida rules and regulations, and 86% gained knowledge on construction of an aquaponics system. 86% of participants indicated that they have plans to start an aquaponics system or expand a current system. Additional research will be conducted to further evaluate the system design and production capabilities. A follow-up survey will be conducted in six months to determine additional results of the workshop.