It will be adequate to begin straightaway by giving out in simple clear language what this concept involves. This is a marriage of convenience between aquaculture and hydroponics. Pollution has been a problem that environmentalists have been having a running battle to contain; aquaponics is clean and green, a way to solve the problem of environmental pollution. This is a clean method of growing fish and plants together in a clean environment. It is stress-free and easy to practice.

The fish are reared in tanks and their water is used to irrigate the plants that are growing on soilless conditions. Where there is the availability of water which is the bridge in-between, this system will work. Let us hear from one of the experts in the field; on his definition of aquaponics:

Aquaponics is defined as the combination of aquaculture (growing fish in water) and hydroponics (growing plants in water). “It’s a simple idea, borrowed from nature, but with extraordinary results for modern gardeners- Charles (Charlie) Bacon from ecolicious aquaponics.

There Is Flexibility

The water is continuously recycled between fish and plants because no soil is involved. No fertilizers are needed; no room for pesticides and herbicides. This is one of the great ways to provide healthy food for a population that needs clean food. It is equally important to note that there is great flexibility in the design. You can produce fish and plant almost anywhere you can think of.

The Importance of Aquaponics

We have defined in clear terms the meaning of this concept. Let us take it further by determining why it is very important to the realities of today. In one of the annual conference of BAQUA that was hosted in the aquaponic conference at Bicton Earth; the issues bothering on the importance of aquaponics was extensively discussed. Speaker after speaker gave reasons why it is very important that governments all over the world should look in the direction of this model of farming. In that particular conference, the first speaker-Kevin Frediani, (the head of sustainable land use at Bicton College) said in his closing remarks: "How do we feed future populations?" That was the question in his closing remarks after he has dwelt extensively on the challenges we face with the environment. Speaker after speaker spoke in the same manner.

It is very clear that the world needs to embrace this model of farming if we are to overcome the food crisis that will be let loose on the world if adequate measures are not taken now to stem the tide of the shortage of food for all.

It Is A workable Concept

It can be seen clearly from the definition through its importance, that this model of farming method is the best that we can think of for now if we are to solve the problem of provision of food, and the attendant issues relating to the adverse effects of farming on the soil. There is no disadvantage to anybody, enterprise or corporation all over the world. The problem of crop farming over the years has been lack of a fertile soil for some countries in the world. The soil is out of the case in this model.

Water Should Not Constitute An Issue

Remember we mentioned that the water is recycled between the fish and the crop. The water gives the needed base for your fish as well as the crops. There is no loss of water in the soil. It is very cheap; a lazy way of getting clean food on the table without stress. The technology in the design has done virtually all that you are required to do. Just create the space (It can be anywhere you have in your imagination so far you can easily access the location), you will achieve your set goals and targets.

Quality Food

There are lots of junk food in the world today. Most of the harvests fall short of the standard requirements for a healthy food. Stories abound to that effect. Tests carried out by the experts have shows that the world is at a risk of consuming unsafe food. The US was the only country that was reported to enjoy some semblance of safe fresh food.  Now, let us look at this stats: The Food and Drug Administration’s (FDA’s) 2005 Food Code states that food borne diseases cause an estimated 76 million illnesses, 325,000 hospitalizations, and 5000 deaths in the United States each year, and the annual cost reaches between $10 and $83 billion, in terms of pain and suffering, reduced productivity, and estimated medical costs. Source

Can you realize the harm done to the population in terms of health challenges? What about the huge expenditure incurred? Those are food for thought. The earlier we embrace aquaponics, the better for the health of all. With the ever-increasing population of the world despite all the birth control measures put in place, the earlier we take the issue of this model of farming seriously, the better for the citizens of the world.

The Challenges

The aquaculture industry has been around for well over a hundred years, the hydroponics industry is not more than 6 decades. Research into this model that we have been discussing all along began about 30 years ago. That has been one of the challenges that this model is currently facing. People still abandon it at the research table because it is a new concept; it is an attitude of wait and see. Click here for more info: 

A better understanding of the challenges that this concept is facing was better explained by an expert who is practically involved in the field. She and her husband have been following the emergence of this novel farming method right from its inception. She blames the slow pace of things in the industry on one part on the policies of the government and on the other hand on the attitude of financial institutions who do not want to put their money in a venture that they considered risky. These are the exact words of- Rebecca Nelson of Nelson + Pade:  On regulation; “As I am sure you have experience in your ventures, doing business in the US is highly regulated.  Regulations are hurdles for new ventures and new technologies.”

On funding; “Since aquaponics is a new technology, banks are not eager to fund projects.  This is beginning to change. This past year both the USDA and FSA have specifically mentioned aquaponics as a sustainable method of food production that they will provide funding for. This recognition and new funding source are trickling down to banks and investors, all of which help to increase the number of new aquaponic farms starting each year.”

She cannot be faulted on her two submissions above. The earlier we take a definite stand on this issue, the better for the ever-increasing population of the world. The limitations should be removed if indeed we are serious about achieving the dual concept of safe food and food for all at an affordable price.

The Prospects

A survey was conducted about five years ago in the industry. The respondents were farmers who have gone into the industry on a commercial scale of operation. Some of them recorded near zero harvests of fish in the last 12 months prior to their introduction into this system and their fortunes have been changed for the better. The table below shows the stats in details:
 
Source:

Conclusion

I see this concept as a way to help solve the food crises on our hands. The environment is thick with pollution; this will not help the cause of creating a clean eco-system that will guarantee safety for all. This model of farming can be effectively handled by those living with one disability or the other; it is stress-free. This is a bright opportunity for those living with one challenge or the other to contribute their quota towards solving the problem of scarcity of food.

This is the time for governments of the world to rise up and take a united action on this model of the food supply that guarantees enough supply and safety. This sector urgently needs funding from the governments of countries in the world. The financial sector should also support this venture.
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More importantly, there should be an enlightenment campaign on the usefulness of this model of farming with the aim of getting more private individuals involved in the concept.
Aquaponics is indeed the future of farming if we do not want to have a crisis between the supply and demand chain.

A fish finder can turn a potentially frustrating fishing day into one for the keeps; and the best fish finders can prove to be your best mate at the fishing hole. But how do you know which fish finder’s the one for you? Heed the following:

1. Compatibility

Consider your own set of fishing skills. Are you more of a recreational fisher, or a dedicated practitioner of the sport? After this assessment, you can see how much the fish finder matches up with your own capabilities. You may, after all, have the best fish finder on the market – but if it's not compatible with your knowledge and style, it might be a waste of purchase. This is especially important if you're just learning how to catch fish.

2. Need

Aside from compatibility, think about what you need as a fisher. Do you just need a sketch of the ocean floor to scout for great fishing spots? Or do you need something more detailed, noting where you are in comparison to the fish? The best fish finder for you is something that fits your needs, so think about this one carefully.

3. Features

Does your fish finder only make use of its sonar system? Or does it come with GPS, or dual and down imaging? How are its display specs? These are just some of the things you’ll be needing to assess when you choose the best fish finder for you.
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4. Price

It's said that the more expensive the item is, the more high-quality it is. But be wary; as mentioned before, it might be because it contains features that you might not be needing yet, bumping up its price. Make sure you double-check its features against the price to ensure a steal of a purchase.

5. Fishing conditions
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How large is your boat? How deep will you be fishing? These will factor greatly in your purchase, as certain fish finders work best in certain environments. If you're going in deep on a big boat, for instance, you might need a networked system with GPS to prevent you from getting lost along the seas. Best Fish Finder Article Sources ​lowrance.com , 11must.com , ​westmarine.com

​GPS. Bass Resource says it’s one of the most important, since it helps you map your surroundings and helps find a route for the trip home.

​Fish Finder Guy notes the Garmin Echo 551dv, along with some Lowrance Elite models as some of the best. Feel free to check out other products as well, however – you’ll never know what suits you.

​Not necessarily. While you might get a decent enough fish finder at a lower cost, if it conks out on you (or if it doesn’t suit you), you might spend more getting a replacement rather than getting something more pricey at the start, but with all the features you need.

​Absolutely! Since fish finders are good at any level of skill, what’s important is that you understand how it works, and what your needs are when it comes to fishing. That said, you don’t have to make a purchase from the get-go until you know what style suits you the most.

There’s nothing quite like fishing. With the serenity of the act combined with the thrill of the catch, it’s no wonder then that more people are beginning to learn how to catch fish.However, it can be frustrating to come back from a long day with small fry – or in some cases, nothing at all. Fortunately, with fish finders, you can remedy a lot of the complications that comes with the activity. Here are 10 ways how.

1. Helps you gauge fishing conditions

Especially when you're just learning how to catch fish, having optimal fishing conditions is a must. Fortunately, the best fish finders are able to gauge  factors like the wave speed and water temperature, so make sure your purchase has those capabilities.

2. Helps you get acquainted with unfamiliar fishing environments

Fish finders work using a soundwaves, which bounce back whenever they hit an object. This is especialy helpful if you’re new to a fishing hole – the waves can help detect the depth and structure of the habitat to make getting acquainted easier.

3.  Helps you target specific species

Aside from familiarizing you to new fishing environments, this feature can help you target certain fish species – such as halibut and bass - by detecting flat and structure areas.

4. Helps locate fish

Of course, it wouldn’t be called a fish finder if it didn’t help you find fish. Aside from giving you an idea of where to best fish, you can also track fish using the same sonar technology. Better yet, the best fish finder makes it easier to know how far the fish is from you, helping you make that perfect cast.

5.  Helps estimate fish size

If you’re aiming for the big prize, you’re in luck – fish finders also help determine the fish size, steering you away from the minnows and towards the big game.

6.  Helps locate bait

Once the bait goes under the water, there’s no way to tell where it is. Luckily, aside from fish, the device can also track where your bait is and make sure you don’t lose it.

7. User-friendly

The device has many capabilities and features that make it good for any fisher, be it a veteran or beginner. From its flexibility to its dual screen options, you’re sure to find a fish finder for your needs and specifications.

8. Makes fishing more efficient

With all these features, there’s a few obstacles the device doesn’t account for, making for a very efficient fishing experience. No need for second guessing no longer, or relying on random elements.

9.  Saves time

Of course, with efficiency, there’s saving time. While fishing is a game of patience for the most part, saving time over preventable problems never fails to enhance the experience.
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10.  Good for a variety of fishing environments

Finally, with a fish finder, you don’t have to be contained to one environment. You can take it to the sea, to a freshwater lake – and every ice fishing. The possibilities are endless.