Aquaponics Workshop Covers Farming Basics

A Mililani nursery will play host to an introductory workshop on aquaponics at 9 a.m. this Saturday, sponsored by the Malama Learning Center.

The program is offered at Mari’s Gardens, 94-415 Makapipipi St., and covers the basics of growing plants (hydroponically) and raising fish (through aquaculture) at the same time.

Garden staff will lead a tour of the 18-acre nursery and explain how their system works.

Mari’s Gardens is considered a “hidden gem” of the area and a pioneer in the commercial use of aquaponics on a large scale.

The nursery currently raises tilapia and Chinese catfish, using the water from the fish to grow vegetables.

Workshop fee is $10 per person or $25 for a family of three or fewer. Registration is required. Visit malamalearningcenter.org, or call education coordinator Janice Staab at 542-9107.

Malama Learning Center is based at Kapolei High School in West Oahu, where advocates for a performing arts center and those for an environmental learning center merged their ideas to create the nonprofit program on the school campus.