HORT 272 - Aquaponic Systems and Food Production

4.0 Credits
Introduction to aquaponic systems: the integrated cultivation of food plant hydroponics and aquatic animal aquaculture in a symbiotic environment for urban and small farm agriculture. Students practice techniques at a local farm. Field trips are an integral part of this course. Be prepared to arrive and depart from sites on your own.
Course-level Learning Objectives (CLOs)
Upon successful completion of this course, students will be able to:

Describe specific aquaponic and hydroponic systems, compare the trade offs between these systems and soil based agriculture, and examine their relative contribution to food security.
Design aquaponic system conceptual models, and construct structures when applicable while maintaining the functional components of a working system.
Select, propagate, and manage the cultural requirements of aquaponic system food plants and aquatic animals, and harvest products for four season production.
Identify and analyze the limiting factors to aquaponic system crop growth, such as water quality and nutrient cycling, and modify the system to optimize efficiency.
Explain how aquaponic system structures, products, by-products, and energy requirements can be integrated into a whole farm management plan and business plan.