Many farmers are starting to consider trying to establish aquaponics farming; therefore they are looking for federal grant money for aquaponics farming. However, before we continue any further allow us to give a brief explanation of this method.
Aquaponics is basically a farming method that combines hydroponics and fish farming at the same time using integrated systems that utilize the water from the fish pond to fertilize soil-less crops. This is a highly sustainable way of farming that gives excellent crop harvest, as long as it is properly maintained.
However, the start-up cost of the aquaponics farming is very high compared to the conventional farming method. Even the DIY project in an acre of land will cost you somewhere around $20,000. The cost can be triple or quintuple of that amount if you choose to have professional to build your aquaponics system. The cost can be break down into several categories, which are:
- The land
- Fish tanks
- Growing medium
- Grow beds
- Pumps
- Plants
- Fish
- Maintenance cost
So you see, there are lots of things to consider. Therefore, we have created a list that you can use to try to get yourself federal grant money for aquaponics. We will also give you non-government based grants that are aimed to help aquaponics farmers to cope with the high cost of farming.
Private and Federal Grant Money for Aquaponics
Conservation Innovation Grants (http://www.nrcs.usda.gov/wps/portal/nrcs/main/national/programs/financial/cig/)
There’s an opportunity from our Federal government that can help you with the cost of the aquaponics farming. Several annual grants are awarded through Department of Agriculture’s National Resources Conservation Services. These grants are available for various types of farming, including aquaponics. Since this is a sustainable farming method, we believe that aquaponics has an edge in getting the grant money. The grant money can be pretty big, with recent awardees received more than $130,000
Aquaponics Association Micro-grants (http://aquaponicsassociation.org/)
Now if you’re looking for a grant that is not that big because you’re starting the aquaponics as a hobby, you can apply for the Aquaponics Association MicroGrants. This program’s aim is to spread the education, understanding and public awareness of aquaponics as a sustainable way to provide fresh food from the local area. The grants are awarded every three months, and the amount of micro grants given is usually $1,000. You can grab the application from their official site, available in our reference section.
Other Creative Way to get Grants
There’s an art in getting a grant. You don’t necessarily have to focus solely on getting a grant specifically designed for aquaponics. First off, review your purpose and aim in creating the aquaponics system. You should also list possible potentials of your aquaponics role in solving problems in your community. After that, look for grant opportunities that match your list. For example, you can apply for the Alliance Healthcare Foundation because you want to help to provide nutritious local foods for the poor. You can also apply Syngenta that loves to give out grants for sustainable agriculture farms.
There you go, I hope you can learn one or two things from this post and get that federal grant money for aquaponics.
References:
- Aquaponics Association (http://aquaponicsassociation.org/)
- Conservation Innovation Grants (http://www.nrcs.usda.gov/wps/portal/nrcs/main/national/programs/financial/cig/)
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