BIOPONICS
In this two-year project, our greenhouse team is researching methods for improving the sustainability of hydroponic operations. The primary focus is using aquaponic filtering technology such as bio-filtration to improve the commercial viability organically-sourced inputs.
FUNDED BY THE USDA NRCS CONSERVATION/INNOVATION GRANT
Conventional hydroponic methods in the Global North rely on mined and heavily processed materials for substrates and fertilizers. Many growers are interested in using more sustainable inputs, but there are several well-established challenges.For example, organically sourced fertilizers tend to have unstable pH, inconsistent nutrient availability, and clogging in narrow irrigation lines. These same challenges are commonly overcome in aquaponics. This project focuses on trialing different fertilizers and growing media using aquaponics filtering techniques. We’re using part of an existing commercial hydroponic space at Brooklyn Grange in Sunset Park – a soil based rooftop farm with a greenhouse in Brooklyn, New York.
CHALLENGE
GOALS
Identify a combination of sustainable inputs suited for hydroponic growing and commercially viable at a small farm scale.
Identify a sustainable alternative growing medium suited for hydroponic growing.
Share our findings to fellow growers and curious consumers in an effort to make knowledge transparent and accessible.
LEAD TEAM
Maya Kutz, Greenhouse Manager
Ben Flanner, Founder & CEO
Liz Dowd, Director of Farming Operations
Abdul Wake, Greenhouse Crew
Isabel Ksenak, Greenhouse Crew
CONSULTANTS
Yemi Amu, Founder & Farm Manager at Oko Farms
James Ankenman, Impact Farm Coordinator at Harlem Grown
ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS
Emily Armstrong and Kim Farrell at USDA, Rob Tolette at Aquaponics Source, Lindsey at The Grow Room, David Goldstein, Greg Andersen, Kate Lodvikov, Matthew DeBacco, Yolanda Gonzalez and Sam Anderson at Cornell Ext.
