The Benedictine Sisters of Florida decided to add Aquaponics to their ministries in order to provide healthier food for themselves and their guests as well as to teach others. Sister Miriam, the program director, trained in 2014 with Phil Reasons who is a renowned expert in the field. Aquaponics is the integration of animal and plant culture in an aquatic media. In other words, waster generated by fish, or other animals you choose to farm, is changed into nutrients which then flow through pipes to vegetable roots set on grow beds. We decided to raise tilapia fish and fresh vegetables.
Today our state-of-the-art farming includes Hydroponics which also uses biological cycles for growing safe, chemical-free food. Aqua/hydroponics are both respectful of the land and use less than 3% of the water used by traditional farming methods. The system recycles its own water and no synthetic fertilizers are ever used. The result of this homegrown food gardening is smarter, easier and produces a much higher and nutrient rich yield.
We also have annual Aqua/Hydroponic Training Workshops at Holy Name taught by Phil Reasons for every level – be it a village, town or a family’s backyard garden. We have had missionaries, church leaders and others from all parts of the globe wanting to bring this method of farming to their areas. Local residents purchase our lush, organic produce.
For more information on our next workshop at Holy Name Monastery, contact Sister Miriam at (352) 588-8320.
