Aquaponics at Riverbend

Winter Aquaponics Field Trips
Winter at Riverbend has a lot to see! Join us for a special indoor and outdoor field trip to explore science skills using our Aquaponics Greenhouse.  Our winter programs cover concepts ranging from animal and plant habitats to farming and earth cycles. Learn more about what these programs entail and how you will continue student's learning back in the classroom. These on-site field trips are for up to 50 participants.
 

Plants, Pollinators and Aquaponics!

Plants need sun and water to grow, but many also rely on pollinators to reproduce. In this hands-on program, students will learn how plants grow and the important role pollinators play in transporting pollen from flower to flower—allowing fruits to develop and seeds to spread. Students will explore the many phases of plant growth in Riverbend’s Aquaponics Greenhouse and learn about this environmentally friendly farming method, which uses fish waste as a nutrient source for plants. Each student will also plant seeds to take back to school and grow in a pollinator garden in the spring.
Topics Covered: Plant Growth, Plant Life Cycle, Aquaponics, Gardening
Grades: K–2
 

The Future of Farming

Where does your food come from? If you answered the supermarket, this program is for you! There was a time when humans relied entirely on natural resources—settling near waterways, foraging for plants, and hunting animals. With the development of agriculture, humans were able to create permanent settlements with reliable food sources. This program explores the history and current state of agriculture in the United States, as well as sustainable solutions for the future. Students will tour the Riverbend Aquaponics Greenhouse to see how fish waste is used to grow vegetables. They will also explore food webs (including humans) and plant their own vegetable seeds to take back to school and grow.
Topics Covered: Food Webs, Structures of Plants and Fish, Adaptations, Earth Cycles
Grades: 3–5
 

Field Trip Pricing & Registration

K–2 Program: 1.5 hours — $450 (up to 50 students) | Grades 3–5 Program: 2 hours — $550 (up to 50 students). Discounted pricing is available for programs scheduled through April 10. If you have a smaller group, please inquire for customized options. To register, email Suzanne Safran or call 610-527-5234 ext. 112.
 

Please Note

As an outdoor education facility, Riverbend closely monitors weather conditions, and student safety is the top priority. Programs run rain or shine; however, in the event of unsafe weather, staff will determine if a program can safely operate and notify schools of cancellations by 7:30 AM the day of the program. If canceled due to weather, programs will be rescheduled within the same calendar year. All other cancellation or rescheduling requests must be submitted in writing at least 3 weeks prior to the scheduled program date. Refunds are not provided for canceled programs.
 

What is Aquaponics?

Aquaponics is an agricultural method that combines aquaculture (raising fish in a controlled environment) with hydroponics (growing plants without soil) in one integrated system. Fish waste provides a natural nutrient source for plants, plants help filter and clean the water for the fish, and beneficial bacteria convert ammonia into nitrates that plants use to grow, creating a sustainable closed-loop ecosystem.
 

Advantages of Aquaponics

Uses up to 90% less water than traditional soil-based gardening, requires no harmful chemicals, fertilizers, or pesticides, produces more food in less space, and grows both vegetables and protein (fish) simultaneously. Aquaponics represents a sustainable solution for the future, especially as the global population is expected to exceed 9 billion by 2050, increasing the importance of efficient food and water systems.
 

Building STEM Skills Through Aquaponics

Greenhouse tours are included in most field trips—please specify if you would like this experience included. Aquaponics supports learning across multiple subjects including food systems (past, present, and future), earth cycles (nitrogen and water), sustainability and climate solutions, plant and animal adaptations, habitats, ecosystems, and watersheds.