Silviculture and aquaponics are novel topics that have been intriguing scientists and foresters alike. In theory, by combining the two disciplines, we could use pre-existing fish hatcheries and just add on an aquaponics system to reduce excess nutrients; thereby, reducing eutrophication in local waterways while growing saplings for many purposes. The nutrient waste will hopefully grow stronger saplings faster than conventional agriculture, giving them a competitive advantage over other saplings. These saplings could be used for forest restoration purposes or even landscaping. Increasing the number of native trees in landscaping and restoring natural habitats is a key to reducing invasive species.
In a preliminary study conducted last year, Eastern White Cedar saplings were successfully sprouted from seed, using only damp paper towels and a grow light. Seedlings were transferred into a deep water culture system (DWC) and grown for approximately 8 months before being transferred to soil. The saplings thrived in the deep water culture system and are now successfully thriving in soil. There was a large variation in size of saplings, possibly because half of the sprouts were transferred into the DWC system later than the other half.
A similar study is set to begin late January 2023, this time with a control group and consistent planting date. The study will be a comparison of growth rates between aquaponically grown saplings and soil grown saplings. The aquaponic sapling will be grown in a DWC with no added media for the roots to attach whereas the soil grown saplings will be in medium sized pots of “Dairy Doo” soil. The soil and water chemistry levels will be recorded every 2 weeks and height of each sapling will be measured weekly. Both sample groups will receive the same environmental conditions throughout the study. The predicted outcome of the study is that the aquaponic DWC will lead to faster growth of Eastern White Cedar seedlings while reducing the nutrient load in the effluent. Overall, combining silviculture with aquaculture has potential benefits for protecting the aquatic environment and creating a new field of aquaponics.