Mervyn and Vicky met on the farm to discuss Mervyn’s initial ideas. They walked around the potential site and talked through the infrastructure that might be required to convert the lambing polytunnel into a growing space for crops, as well as pipework, pumps and fish tanks.

They considered the potential markets for the products, both fish and crops, where and how these would be processed, packaged and stored and what food regulations he might have to adhere to. Vicky also highlighted the possibility of obtaining grants for infrastructure, such as solar panels and rainwater harvest tanks, which could alleviate the day-to-day running costs of the new system.

Designing the aquaponics system

Antonio worked over the subsequent few weeks to design the setup of a new aquaponics system utilising the existing polytunnel. He kept in regular contact with Mervyn, ensuring the system was of an appropriate size and suitable output to allow Mervyn to slowly build a local market for the products. Antonio produced a full costings spreadsheet, including all of the set-up costs that the new system would likely incur and ongoing running costs such as water and electricity. 

Due diligence for the aquaponics installation

After running through the completed design with Mervyn, Antonio sent the designs over to Vicky, who then researched any grant funding that could be used to alleviate set-up costs and ongoing expenses. Vicky and Mervyn discussed the potential yield of both fish and crops from the new system, and Vicky expressed the importance of securing a local market before investing heavily in the new system.

By the end of the funded project, Mervyn was able to make an informed decision about the investment required and how long it would likely take to pay for itself by selling the products. Mervyn will continue to consult with Vicky regarding grants for renewable energy production and will keep in touch with Antonio as the plans to install the new system progress.