US (OK): Redlands Community College offers aquaponics class

Redlands Community College will offer a one-day aquaponic certificate class on Nov. 5. The course is open to the public and will be presented by Redlands faculty in conjunction with Symbiotic Aquaponic, a nationally-recognized, Oklahoma-based aquaponics company.

Participants will experience hands-on instruction in the recently renovated Redlands GrowHouse along with classroom discussion. As a special feature of the inaugural certificate class, participants will also experience an on-site build of a small aquaponic system.

“Interest in healthy and reliable food sources along with other aspects of sustainable agriculture makes aquaponics appealing, particularly both for home gardeners and commercial growers,” said Dr. Julie Flegal-Smallwood, director of the Aquaponics program and the GrowHouse at Redlands.

The class will be held at Redlands from 9 a.m. to 2:30 p.m., with optional activities lasting until approximately 4 p.m. Registration for the event is available online at www.symbioticaquaponic.com or by contacting Redlands Community College. The standard rate through Oct. 28 is $129, and the late rate through Nov. 3 is $149. All registration fees include materials, refreshments and a light lunch. Special registration rates are available for groups of four or more.

“Aquaponics is especially valuable in places like Oklahoma where droughts and water shortages are constant concerns,” said Kaben Smallwood, Symbiotic Aquaponic CEO and co-owner. Symbiotic Aquaponics’ patent-pending systems use approximately 1/95th the water of traditional agriculture. Decreased water usage and expanded growing seasons are definitely desirable factors.

For more information:
www.redlandscc.edu