{"id":8397,"date":"2020-04-30T11:49:41","date_gmt":"2020-04-30T15:49:41","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/extension.umaine.edu\/hancock\/?page_id=8397"},"modified":"2025-03-24T09:24:27","modified_gmt":"2025-03-24T13:24:27","slug":"aquaponics","status":"publish","type":"page","link":"https:\/\/extension.umaine.edu\/hancock\/aquaculture\/aquaponics\/","title":{"rendered":"4-H Aquaponics Project"},"content":{"rendered":"

University of Maine Cooperative Extension 4-H in partnership with the UMaine Center for Cooperative Aquaculture Research<\/a> (CCAR) and the UMaine Aqua<\/a>cultu<\/a>re Research Institute<\/a> (ARI) delivers the 4-H Aquaponics Project<\/strong>, a project-based learning experience for K-12 youth. The project teaches learners about the biology, chemistry, and engineering of sustainable aquaponics systems, with a focus on plant and fish husbandry. Participants develop valuable life skills such as record-keeping, problem-solving, food safety, collaboration, math, and science literacy.<\/p>\n

\"Logos<\/p>\n

The project is open to educators and youth in both formal (classroom) and informal (summer camp, after-school, library, community) settings. Thanks to our generous sponsors, participation is entirely cost-free for educators in Maine.<\/p>\n

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What is Aquaponics?<\/h3>\n

Aquaponics is a unique farming method that combines raising fish in tanks (aquaculture) with growing plants without soil (hydroponics). In an aquaponics system, plants utilize nutrient-rich water from the fish tank, simultaneously purifying the water for the fish. This sustainable farming technique can be practiced year-round, indoors, and in any climate, making it a safe, easy, and fresh way to grow your own food. We believe aquaponics is an engaging hands-on platform for teaching STEM concepts related to aquaculture across various age groups.<\/p>\n\n\t\t