Backyard Aquaponics
A place to discuss aquaponics

Keep at it guys, looking like something is starting to eventuate.

I believe you will end up with a tidy unit.

I belive your correct! In my mind the biggest challange is burying the IBC. That is almost done! In fact I am about to finish it right now!

Doing something with the dirt is always a challenge. I am digging out huge hole and the dirt is pilling up everywhere. But at least I am using a tractor, digging with a shovel is hard work.

I have not buried an Ibc but I am pretty sure you need to reinforce sides with some sheets of tin or boards or something to stop dirt caving it in.
Keep up the good work.

It's water pressure when it rains that causes problems. This has been a rather wet winter in San Diego. The dirt after 2 feet was DRY. I wraped the frame 6 mil construction plastic to be on the safe side though. The good news is that the sump is buried! Well it is in the ground and I have started to fill in around three sides of it... Pictures to follow!

Water pressure when it rains causes the tank to pop out of the hole. As long as water in the tank can equalise the pressure from water in the hole during a storm, you will be fine.

The 6mm film will do bugger all for the soil caving into the IBC.

Is there an austrailian to american translation to this line?

translation, "that 150 micron film ain't gunna do jack sh#it about dirt caving in brah"

Too late. It's buried. The dirt here only really moves during earthquakes though. I suppose I could still slide something in. But I'm not really woried. Tonight I'm too tired to do anything about it.

Any updates on the system? I am interested in finding out what trees you are putting in your system. I also plan on doing a similar set up in Orange County.

Some progress, yes. But my job has had me traveling to Orange County too much, so not enough progress! Last night I was in Newport Beach, man is parking a bitch there. Last week my time was spent in Dana Point, it's vibe was much cooler.

You are also using a spade to dig with. The first and most useful shovel is a post hole shovel. Long handle, curved cutting edge, offset angle, plenty of weight. Digging with a spade is just way harder than it needs to be, the square edges stop it digging very deep and the lack of weight means you just can't get much force to get through the harder stuff.
Buy a decent one, you will never look back.

LOL !

BTW I think your system idea is great. Awesome use of space and looks like it will look "sweet as bro"