For those interested in learning more about indoor marine shrimp and tilapia production and aquaponics, the Kentucky Cooperative Extension Service will host an aquaculture program Saturday, March 25 at Kentucky State University’s Aquaculture Research Center in Frankfort.

Indoor aquaculture programs are growing in popularity, particularly in urban areas, as people become more interested in local foods. Often, indoor aquaculture systems help bring the products closer to consumers and require less space and water to operate than outdoor pond aquaculture.

The daylong event begins at 9 a.m. EDT. KSU aquaculture specialists will give an overview of indoor aquaculture production systems as they relate to the production of shrimp and tilapia and aquaponics. Aquaponics is a mutually beneficial system of tilapia and hydroponically grown vegetables, most commonly leafy greens. Discussions will include permitting, nutrition, crop selection and water quality. A representative from the Kentucky Department of Agriculture will discuss marketing opportunities for Kentucky-grown shrimp, tilapia and other aquaponics products.

KSU’s Aquaculture Research Center is located at 103 Athletic Drive in Frankfort.

Participants may also choose to attend the Indoor Aquaculture Program Reception the day before the program. It is from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. March 24 at Completely Kentucky’s upstairs meeting room. Completely Kentucky is located at 237 W. Broadway St. in Frankfort.

The events are free and open to the public. Lunch is provided for the March 25 program. To register for either the program, the reception or both, contact Karla Johnson at 502-597-8106 or karla.johnson@kysu.edu. For directions and the complete program, visit http://www.ksuaquaculture.org.