Due to the popularity of its spring indoor aquaculture program, the Kentucky Cooperative Extension Service is hosting a second event for individuals interested in learning more about the production of indoor marine shrimp, tilapia and aquaponics. The program is Saturday, Sept. 16 at the Kentucky State University Aquaculture Research Center in Frankfort.

Indoor aquaculture systems 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.

The event is free and open to the public. Lunch is provided. To register for the program, contact Kat Mitchell at 502-597-6140 or kathryn.mitchell@kysu.edu. For directions and the complete program, visit http://www.ksuaquaculture.org.

The Kentucky Cooperative Extension Service is a land-grant partnership between the University of Kentucky College of Agriculture, Food and Environment and Kentucky State University that takes the university to the people in their local communities, addressing issues of importance to all Kentuckians.