Aquaponics research at Lethbridge College received a $2.1 million funding boost April 8 from the Natural Sciences and Engineering Research Council of Canada.
The grant will further research into integrated fish and plant systems, Lethbridge College said in a news release.
It will be distributed over five years.
Gina Funicelli, dean of the college’s Centre for Applied Research and Innovation, said it is the largest research grant ever received by the institution.
Lethbridge was one of eight across Canada to receive more than $2 million in funds through the council’s college and community innovation enhancement program.
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The college has had an aquaponics program for more than 12 years at its Aquaculture Centre of Excellence. Water used to raise fish is cycled into a greenhouse, where it fertilizes plants.
Charlie Schultz, lead researcher in aquaculture at the college, said the grant is welcome.
“This new grant will be used to address critical issues relating to the production of food, including food safety, and will use the knowledge and understanding of agriculture and food production practices found in southern Alberta to assist companies who are commercializing integrated fish and plant systems,” he said.
“These food production systems are applicable in rural and urban settings and will lead to more sustainable practices worldwide.”
