What is aquaponics?
Aquaponics combines aquaculture—raising fish—with hydroponics—growing plants without soil—in a managed, recirculating system.
- Fish produce waste that contributes nutrients.
- Beneficial bacteria convert nutrients into forms plants can use.
- Plants take up nutrients through their roots.
- Water recirculates through the managed system.
Where technology meets hands-on learning
ECO 180 is building a Living Agricultural Laboratory in Rembert, South Carolina. The laboratory connects controlled-environment agriculture, sensors, monitoring, and water conservation with youth education and community food access.
Students can explore biology, water chemistry, plant growth, engineering, data, and agricultural careers. Sensors and dashboards help make conditions visible; trained people remain responsible for care and decisions.
Building the laboratory
The readiness campaign supports technical validation, site and utility preparation, professional setup, permits, and an acquisition reserve. Installation, operator training, and commissioning establish the foundation for learning experiences and food production.
Ways to participate
- Contribute skilled building, technical, or aquaponics support.
- Help develop educational demonstrations.
- Support sensors, supplies, equipment, and infrastructure.
- Connect with our team about future harvest and distribution opportunities.
