Editor's note: This segment by Shaun Gallagher originally aired on January 29 on TMJ4.
The project that began with thousands of walleye fry in the Concordia Center for Environmental Stewardship last spring is now producing very green results. Dr. Mark Schmitz has been working on his aquaponics system with the help of some dedicated students, and the fruits of their labor are almost ready to be enjoyed.
The sustainable, environmentally friendly farming system allows produce to be grown in the most undesirable temperatures. Aquaponics defines a self-sustaining growing system with minimal waste. In our system, walleye and lettuce partake in a mutually beneficial relationship and support each other’s growth.
Concordia’s unique system is right on campus and we were recently able to begin preparations to make our first harvest–in January. The ultimate goal of the system is to provide our cafeteria with fresh, locally-grown produce. Students working in the CCES are provided a unique opportunity to experience the LEED Platinum certified building and work with technology that has the potential to make a big impact on our growing population.
Click the photo to view the full TMJ4 segment.
— Madelyne Arrigoni is a senior studying English, Mass Communications, and Photography. She plans to graduate in 2022.
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