Aquaponics for greenhouse growers forum set

A well-established Ohio aquaponics farm will share information on utilizing fish and hydroponic systems to grow produce year-round.

The Northwest Ohio Ag-Business Breakfast Forum is scheduled for 8-9:30 a.m. Thursday, Sept. 21, 2017, in 13737 Middleton Pike, in Bowling Green. The event will be hosted by the Center for Innovative Food Technology (CIFT) at the Agricultural Incubator Foundation (AIF).

Located in Union County, Ohio, Jeni and Doug Blackburn, owners, Fresh Harvest Farms, will discuss the sustainability of aquaponics, challenges with Ohio’s climate, and their success.

Generally, aquaponics involves using farmed fish to add natural fertilizer to water used by a plant crop, while using plants to purify the water.

When using aquaponics in a controlled greenhouse environment, fish and organic produce can be grown year-round to provide a healthy food source, according to event organizers. Fish and produce can grow using less water and energy than traditional farming, while producing more vegetables in the same area in less time.

Fresh Harvest Farms consists of three large greenhouses and more than 10,000 yellow perch.

Breakfast and informal networking will start at 8 a.m., with the program to follow. The cost is just $10 per person when for those who RSVP in advance, or $12 per person at the door by cash or check.

The Northwest Ohio Ag-Business Breakfast Forum is an educational networking opportunity to provide information on current issues, trends and programs available to the agricultural community and those who support its advancement.

The AIF is located at 13737 Middleton Pike in Bowling Green.  Walk-ins are welcome, but guests are encouraged to reserve a seat in advance by visiting ciftinnovation.org.