Integrated Aquaculture and Agriculture Development

Goal: To evaluate the potential for integrated desert aquaculture and agriculture on several southwestern U.S. sites.

In integrated aquaculture and agriculture, aquaculture effluent is recycled to irrigate greenhouse or field crops. Irrigating crops with aquaculture effluent conserves water, fertilizer and other resources, and lowers production costs.

Israeli researchers and growers have developed commercial integrated intensive aquaculture and agriculture in the Negev Desert. Using this approach, we characterized site suitability and options for integrated aquaculture/agriculture development on several Southwest sites. We evaluated local environmental conditions, including water quantity and quality, soil composition, topography and climate. Our study covered the technical and marketing potential, and determined what additional, site-specific information is needed.

Next steps, should the client decide to pursue it, include (1) an in-depth feasibility and engineering study and a detailed economic and market study to determine actual crop and product choices on specific sites, and (2) an income-generating pilot project, to test and adapt a number of established Israeli techniques and approaches to local conditions.

Such a project could benefit the surrounding communities in many ways, providing employment, new skills development and educational benefits.

Client: A Fortune 500 mining corporation and The Negev Foundation, in conjunction with the Ramat Negev Desert Agro-Research Center.