In this time of higher input costs and uncertain market prices it is important that farms operate as efficiently as possible. An aquaponics system allows for protein production from  fish as well as vegetable production from  lettuce, all while using the fewest inputs possible. The waste from the tilapia is used to supplement the fertilizer needs of the lettuce. Water is recycled and conserved as much as possible.  Any solid fish waste that cannot be used to fertilizer the lettuce will be spread on other farm ground to supplement fertilizer requirements  in those areas. This system seemed to be a good fit for the Cornett farm.

Because it seemed to be a good fit, and an economic way to boost production, the horticulture agent assisted Brent Cornett and his family in adding an aquaponics system to their farm. We first visited Food Web in Lexington to  get ideas on how to produce lettuce in a hydroponic system using tilapia waste as fertilizer. We then contacted Kentucky State University's aquaculture program and toured their facility. After the initial meeting KSU sent some researchers to the Cornet farm. In a joint effort between the local horticulture agent, KSU and the Cornetts a small aquaponics system was set up in  a greenhouse on the farm.  In exchange for the set up of the system, the horticulture agent and the Cornetts will collect data on the tilapia and lettuce production . This data will be shared with KSU and used to assist other aquaponics farmers across the state. . 

Ultimately the lettuce and tilapia will be sold in the cafe at Cornett's Farm Fresh. This system provides fresh healthy food with a minimal impact on the environment. In this system the tilapia are raised in tanks, the tilapia waste is then used as  fertilizer for the lettuce grown ion float beds. A farm to table system in in place. Consumers get to enjoy locally sourced foods that they are know came from a safe, healthy and clean environment.