Vegetable Production
The decision to start an Aquaponic Greenhouse operation became reinforced by several trends. USDA.org states that greenhouse crops represent one of the largest commodities of American agriculture” and that, “improvements in greenhouse crop culture are required to enable American producers to remain competitive in world markets.” The University of Florida also reports greenhouse herb production has increased in Florida from near zero acres in 1990 to 19 acres in 2001. Basil remains the herb with the most greenhouse acreage in Florida. In addition to increased demand for fresh cut herbs in the past ten years, the demand for organic herbs has also increased.  Organic production has increased by about 20% annually for the past several years.
      
Combining Florida greenhouse hydroponic and organic production together would allow for high quality organic basil and other herbs due to a better chance of controlling pests without chemicals in a controlled greenhouse environment.”  Another article in Australian New Crops Combining greenhouse hydroponic and organic production together would allow for high quality organic basil and other herbs due to a better chance of controlling pests without chemicals in a controlled greenhouse environment.”  Another article in Australian New Crops Newsletter stated that three key consumer issues with herb production include quality, continuity of supply, and price.  We believe that all these issues can be addressed and capitalized upon with a local Aquaponic operation.  With the operation located near Fort Collins, not only can we provide a continuous supply of fresh quality organic herbs, but our prices will also be off set by low delivery costs.  We see the emerging trend of health and eco conscious consumers and therefore will be targeting this market.