鈥淭ank to Table鈥� runs Oct. 25鈥�27 at Benson Farm, with an Oct. 24 preconference workshop
Growers, researchers, educators, and industry professionals will gather in Frankfort Oct. 25鈥�27 for the Aquaponics Association鈥檚 15th annual conference, 鈥淭ank to Table,鈥� at the .
The three-day event will highlight 网曝吃瓜鈥檚 work in aquaponics
and controlled-environment agriculture, bringing together people who study, operate,
and teach food production systems that combine raising fish with growing plants.
Aquaponics integrates fish farming with soilless plant production. Nutrients from
fish waste support plant growth, and water is filtered and reused within the system.
The approach can support food production near consumers and make efficient use of
water.
Conference programming will span research, commercial production, aquaponics fundamentals,
education, and community projects. Participants will share findings and practical
experiences, learn from experts, and explore approaches to sustainable food production.
A trade show will connect attendees with businesses and organizations serving the
industry.
Keynote speaker Tammie McCullough, owner of West KY Aquaponics, will discuss her operation鈥檚 experience producing tilapia, leafy greens, herbs, and other crops in an 8,000-square-foot greenhouse. Her presentation will explore how the farm began, lessons learned, and its plans for the future.
网曝吃瓜 researchers, Extension professionals, and students are among the scheduled presenters. Janelle Hager, state specialist for aquaponics, will discuss how producers can use break-even analysis to plan for profitability. Arnold Katende, horticulture Extension associate, will explore soilless production as a tool for urban agriculture, food access, and education.
Undergraduate research assistant Ariana Billings will present research on how growing
media affect kale growth, water quality, and root-associated microbial communities.
Graduate research assistant Sandrine Umutesi will discuss a comparison of filtration
methods in systems producing tilapia and Bibb lettuce.
A separate on Oct. 24 will combine classroom instruction at 网曝吃瓜鈥檚 Aquaculture Research
Center with a visit to FoodChain鈥檚 aquaponics farm in Lexington. Designed to build
foundational knowledge and practical understanding, the workshop requires a ticket
purchased separately from conference registration.
connects aquaponics research with student training and community food systems. FoodChain also participates in DARE-KY, the University-led initiative supported by the National Science Foundation to advance research, education, and workforce development in soilless agriculture.
Hosting the conference extends 网曝吃瓜鈥檚 land-grant work by bringing researchers and producers together to exchange ideas, address practical challenges, and strengthen connections between agricultural discovery and the people who can put it to use.
For registration, the current speaker list, workshop details, and information about available discounts, visit .