Hello all!
I was asked a few years ago by a friend to look into aquaponics. He gave me the Nelson and Pade book “Aquaponic Food Production” and I read it cover to cover. I was looking into starting an operation at that time, but long story short; life happened.
I now am looking at starting a small bed in a spare bedroom as a proof of concept to ensure that I can grow something without too much carnage! If this works, I plan on building a greenhouse with at least one 500 gallon tank and have one of my adult children work it with me a few hours a day. If all goes as planned, I will get the operation able to replace my job and support my family in the upcoming years. I do NOT want to re-invent the wheel, so I want to go with tried and true methods.
I plan on taking a short course on aquaponics in the spring and I am open for input. The Nelson and Pade one in Wisconsin is the main possibility, with Will Allen and Growing Power being another. Any one been to another course that is note worthy?
I have just started sourcing my grow beds and supplies and again I am open for input. I found that many people suggest using hydroton and that it can be purchased at Home Depot with free shipping for about 36 dollars a bag of 1.76cu/ft. Is it necessary? Or will river rock / pea gravel do just fine? Possibly a mix? I know surface area is a consideration.
If I am shooting for having 40 sq/ft of grow area, what size tank should I consider? I plan on having tilapia for the first demonstration unless a better suggestion can be made. Since this is going to be inside my home, I will be purchasing a grow LED light. Any particular brand or vendor that anyone has had good experience with?
Thank you in advance for your advice. I look forward to hearing from you.
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