Sanborn Central sixth grade STEM class set up a classroom aquaponics system. Aquaponics is a sustainable method of food production combining aquaculture (raising aquatic animals) and hydroponics (cultivating plants in nutrient-rich water). In this circulating system, fish waste acts as a natural fertilizer for plants, while plants take up those nutrients and return clean water to the fish. 

With the guidance of Mrs. Farmer, the students assembled the system and added the vegetable seeds; during the following months, the students will continue to monitor the water quality, maintain the health of the fish and harvest the vegetables. 

Throughout the process, the students will be learning how to reduce their environmental footprint and how to protect natural resources by growing aquaponically.

…See a picture in this week’s issue of the Sanborn Weekly Journal.