As previously discussed, one of the biggest roadblocks to removing excess nutrient from our river systems is expense. Even in this system the start up cost to clean a meaningful amount of nutrient from our rivers is going to be high. I currently estimate build out for a one acre “proof of concept” plant in the area of half a million dollars and given my lack of business or construction experience, that cost doubling would not be a huge shock to me.
On the other hand, current systems have to be tax supported long term, because they are not economically viable. This is because they do not use the nutrients and chemicals in the water, but rather they are “treated” chemically to neutralize them.
Which brings us to the aquaponic system and marketable products that can be derived from it. By growing marketable plants on site, using the very waste products we are wanting to clean out of the river; at a minimum the operating costs will be offset. Given that these products are all marketed and sold a profit currently with high dollar inputs needed, I am certain that the vast majority of them can be sold at a reasonable profit. This will allow the system to not only be maintained without further tax payer burden, but for the system to continue to be scaled and grown until ALL excess nutrient is utilized and removed from our river systems.
Below is a list of some of the products that are currently grown in aquaponic systems for market purposes:
To give an idea of how broadly this system can be utilized, my personal favorite is not even included on that expansive though abbreviated list. Plants used in textile production. Some of those are:
Flax (Linum usitatissimum): Flax is well-known for its fibers, which are used to make linen. While traditionally grown in soil, flax can potentially be grown in aquaponic systems with appropriate adjustments to nutrient levels and environmental conditions.
Cotton (Gossypium spp.): Cotton plants produce fibers used in textile production. While cotton is typically grown in soil, there have been experiments with hydroponic cultivation of cotton, which could potentially be adapted to aquaponic systems.
Hemp (Cannabis sativa): Hemp fibers are used in various textile applications. Hemp is known for its adaptability to different growing conditions and may have potential for cultivation in aquaponic systems.
Ramie (Boehmeria nivea): Ramie fibers are strong and durable, making them suitable for textile production. Ramie is a perennial plant that grows well in warm, humid climates and may be suitable for aquaponic cultivation in suitable conditions.
Kenaf (Hibiscus cannabinus): Kenaf fibers are used in the production of textiles and paper products. Kenaf is a fast-growing annual plant that may have potential for cultivation in aquaponic systems, particularly in warm climates.
Sisal (Agave sisalana): Sisal fibers are derived from the leaves of the sisal plant and are used in rope and twine production. While traditionally grown in soil, sisal may have potential for cultivation in aquaponic systems in regions with suitable climates.
Bamboo (Bambusoideae spp.): Bamboo fibers are increasingly used in textile production due to their sustainability and eco-friendly properties. While not traditionally grown in aquaponic systems, bamboo may have potential for cultivation in controlled environments with appropriate nutrient and water management.
My personal favorite on this list is cotton. There primary reason for this is the fact that cotton farming is degenerative to the environment, so growing it in this system will have a doubly good environmental impact. In addition to that, cotton farming in the US is in an economically depressed region of the country which is also well suited to host and benefit from this system.
In summary, marketable products are readily available to be grown in this system. These can be selected based on regional water quality, market forces, and preference of the operator. So cost is not the major roadblock to this operation that it would seem, once we get past start up. Speaking of which, please utilize our Amazon or donation links to support this endeavor.
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