COLLEGE PARK, Md. — Kentucky State University made a strong showing at the 2025 Aquaponics Association Conference at the University of Maryland, where a 10-member delegation from the University’s Aquaponics Lab immersed in workshops, lab tours, and farm visits that connected classroom learning to real-world food production.

Led by Janelle Hager, Cooperative Extension state specialist for aquaponics, Kentucky State’s students and staff engaged with growers, engineers, and researchers on water quality, system design, plant health, and data logging.

“Our students came home with new skills, new mentors, and new confidence,” Hager said. “Aquaponics is a team sport — biology, engineering, and entrepreneurship — and this conference put all of those pieces together.”

Aquaponics pairs recirculating aquaculture (raising fish) with hydroponics (growing plants) in a closed-loop system. Fish byproducts become nutrients for plants, and plants, in turn, filter and return clean water to the tanks — an efficient approach that reduces water use, supports year-round production, and strengthens food safety practices.

Student achievements added to the momentum. At the banquet, student Lucian Blakemore earned third place in the student presentation category, and the Aquaponics Association president recognized the University’s delegation for its strong presence and enthusiasm.

The conference also highlighted Driving AgTech Research and Education in Kentucky (DARE-KY), a $7 millionNational Science Foundation grant and the largest competitive stand-alone federal award in the University’s history.

At a busy conference booth, Kentucky State researchers shared DARE-KY results and built connections with farmers, entrepreneurs, and potential collaborators. By cultivating networks, advancing applied research, and expanding workforce pathways for soilless food systems, the University is creating a cross-sector research network to improve nutrient management, strengthen food safety, and enhance sustainability across the commonwealth.

The School of Aquaculture and Aquatic Science — part of the College of Agriculture, Health, and Natural Resources, and the University’s sole Program of Distinction — anchors Kentucky State’s leadership in sustainable aquaculture and aquaponics, advancing student success, research visibility, industry partnerships, and workforce development tied to food security and rural prosperity.

The Kentucky State delegation included staff members Janelle Hager, Chelsea Walling, Chris Ward, and Constance Finnerty, and students Ethan Bulland, De’aira Watts, Lucian Blakemore, Ariana Billings, Charlie Wilbers, and George Collins.