Backyard Aquaponics
A place to discuss aquaponics

Everything you all say makes sense. I will have alot of building to do this winter to get ready for next spring. The hard part is stock piling enough gravel for he job. What size of gravel is being used? Is there another lighter medium that can be used at a reasonable cost?

Most people use gravel about 10-12mm.... a light weight alternative is expanded clay... varies in price from ciuntry to country, state to state....

Not sure if my last post went through or if this will be a repeat. I thank all of you for the advise. I will have alot of work to do before spring. The biggest challenge will be dealling with all the gravel needed. What are you all using for medium? Is there anything cost effective that is lighter?

Ok, I see I double posted...lol. Please egnor the last one.

Don't say that!!! It will be tropical all winter (I'm from Calgary, but lucky enough to be in a greenhouse)
Is it transport of the gravel that is an issue to you?
How much would you need?
If you need a fair volume you can often get it delivered at a reasonable cost. Otherwise find a friend with a pickup.
Expanded clay is very pricey, but if cost is not an issue, that is your best bet in regards to weight.

I like Calgary. It is all the handling of the gravel. I will need to get washed agrigate to save on time. I will need to build a rotory screen so I can screen out the fines after the growing season.

I have seen alot of systems using 45 gallon plastic drums cut in half. Is this a good way to go?

There are rebels here who say you don't really need to wash the gravel. I think it depends more on what base the gravel came from. If it came from a clayey area, then yes, wash. If it is from a sandy area, then maybe you can get away with no washing, or just a light wash. I can get either here. Regrettably, I didn't know this, or that it would make a difference. I bought stuff that came from the clayey area, of course.