The children are actively involved by means of picking crops, as well as bringing vegetable peals for the earthworm farm. So exactly what is aquaponics all about?  Aquaponics is the combination of aquaculture (fish farming) and hydroponics (growing crops without soil). When you combine these two elements in one closed looped system, you get the totally natural farming method of aquaponics. The fish waste or poop, act as a nutrient for the crops to grow. In return the crops neutralise the water in the system for the fish to thrive. The system uses up to 90% less water than conventional farming, producing crops in as little as 4 weeks.

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The most popular fish used is Tilapia, a hardy and fast-growing fish which taste similar to hake. After about 6 months you can start to cultivate the fish. The magic of the system is the prospect of growing your own crops whilst producing enough crops to sell and make a profit. That’s exactly what Chris is doing, as he secured a contract with corporate catering company Pure Good to deliver produce. 

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The success of the food garden at the BECDC prompted the launch of the One small fish campaign. The campaign seeks to create an active data base of donors and volunteers as well as creating awareness of sustainable farming by educating members of the community about aquaponics. Regular workshops will be hosted at the Centre, in association with the Ackerman Pick n Pay Foundation which has been supporting community food gardening since 2013. 

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