Food security is defined as “having reliable access to a sufficient quantity of affordable, nutritious food.” In Illinois, one in ten working adults struggle with hunger. In economically distressed communities where nutritious food resources may be limited, families experience higher rates of physical and mental health issues as a result. Aquaponics systems are closed-loop alternatives with distinct advantages:
(1) Healthy/Nutritious: Crops are raised indoors so no pesticides are needed. (2) Locally produced: Fish and vegetables are grown in urban settings. This greatly reduces transportation costs and environmental impact. (3) Creates jobs: Many urban areas suffer from high unemployment, crime and poverty. Urban aquaponics can alleviate some of these challenges.
This project is modeled after the Chicago Botanic Gardens Farm on Ogden launched in 2018. Planning for Farm on Sheridan began in late 2019. The launch date will be determined in 2020.
Why aquaponics? ✔ Produces products year round in controlled environment ✔ Uses 90% less water than traditional farming ✔ Truly organic: fertilizer and pesticide free ✔ One system grows six times more per square foot than traditional farming ✔ Can grow in droughts and areas where there is little water ✔ Plants grow twice as fast due to naturally fortified water from the fish ✔ Does not require acres of farmland. ✔ Grow lights are efficient and use less energy than conventional farming. Use of solar, wind, and hydroelectric energy is possible. ✔ Fish have no growth hormones or antibiotics ✔ Produce is grown locally so less shipping ✔ Allows continuous production of food. ✔ Produces both protein and vegetable crops
