Aquaponics refers to the rearing of fish and plants together in a controlled environment. It is a combination of aquaculture, the rearing of fish, and hydroponics, the growing of plants without soil. In aquaponics the water from the fish tanks is used to grow the plants. The plants get their nutrients from the nutrient rich water produced by the fish wastes. Since in the process of deriving their nutrients from the waste water, the plants are actually cleaning the water, the water is thus recycled and reintroduced into the fish tanks. Aquaponics is commercially viable that a farmer sell both fish and plant products, such as lettuce, tomatoes and spinach.
Conduct research on commercial aquaponic farming. Gather sufficient information on how to establish and manage an aquaponic farm. Visit aquaponic farmers within your locality or state to gain their advice on how best to operate a commercial aquaponic farm. Research the internet to gather more knowledge on aquaponic farming. Visit your state's department of agriculture and fishing to gather information on any registration requirements necessary before starting an aquaponic farm.
Consult a qualified accountant to help you prepare a detailed business plan for your aquaponic farm. The plan should contain the financial forecasts of your aquaponic farm, including projected cash flow statements, estimated start-up costs, and sales forecasts. Include a market analysis and marketing strategies that you will use to sell your fish and plant produce.
Identify the area where you will establish the farm. The location of an aquaponic farm greatly affects the growth and development of the fish and plants. Choose a location where temperatures are neither too high nor too low. It should also have sufficient light to ensure the plants get enough light for food production. Ensure that the area is free of harmful chemicals as these will kill both the fish and plants.
Acquire all the necessary materials needed for setting up your aquaponics system. These include; fish tanks, pumps for pumping the water, growing medium for your plants, grow beds on which the plants will be grown and fish. Consult an aquaponics professional to help set up the aquaponics system.
Register your aquaponic farm to obtain the necessary permits and licenses. Register with your local state's department of fishing since you will be operating your farm for commercial purposes. Register with your state's department of tax to obtain a sales tax certificate and a state tax identification number. Register with the Internal Revenue Service to acquire an Employer Identification Number to enable you comply with federal tax requirements.
Roll out your commercial aquaponic plan as per your business plan. Continue consulting other aquaponic farmers and professional resources on a regular basis so as to seek their guidance on how to effectively and efficiently manage your farm and to gather current trends in aquaponic business.
- Fish tanks
- Growing medium
- Grow beds
- Join aquaponic farmers organizations and subscribe to aquaponic magazines such as Backyard Aquaponics to continue gaining knowledge on aquaponic farming.
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