Here is the greenhouse we will be using for the Aquaponics.

We have it set for winter solstice, so the sun/shade line will miss the fish tanks. If this doesn't allow enough direct light into the greenhouse we may have to adjust the sun opening.We are going to use IBC's for our tanks.

Two of the IBC's

Our plans are to use 5 tanks for fish. There are six, 55gal barrels that will be cut in half length-ways to increase grow bed area, and to provide a tank to grow Duckweed in. Research has shown that we can use the Duckweed for fish feed and chicken feed. If the chickens like it we may expand that part of process to help cut back on feed expense for them. Since we are trying to be as sustainable as possible, it sounds like a viable option.

So far progress is slow. This is a learning experience to say the least. Every time I think I know what needs done, I just have to read another article. I do know we need to finish emptying out the greenhouse and get the floor ready, the wood stoves need to be set, and the wall needs to be filled in. My better half will be home Tuesday. I have a lot of things to discuss with her. Her imput is very helpful and much needed on a project of this magnitude.

We are in the process of starting an Aquaponics system here on Oldies Homestead.  We have a greenhouse that has been used for storage and a dog kennel for the last few years. The dogs have all been retired from breeding, gone to new homes, except for the two favorites and they are now house dogs. Since the govt doesn't care whether you use it or not, the taxes go on, we have decided to use it.
I was reading about hydroponics, and came across an article on Aquaponics. The whole purpose of the homestead is to be as self-suficent as possible, and it appears the aquaponics system is an answer to some of our problems. The gardens are a very labor intense operation, that only  yeild a few months out of the year. That leads to a lot of other projects, if you need to store your food to eat over the winter. So after a lot of research, and discussion, we have decided to take the plunge and try.

We are going to use a what is called a " basic flood and drain " system. It is as the name states, basic, and consists of only a few componants. There are a lot of names for all the parts, but Im a simple person, so I am going to keep it simple here as well. As we move along with this new project, I will try to keep you up to date on what we are doing. Most importantly, later on if it works.