Inner City Aquaponics located behind the old Rossville High School at 2 Bulldog Drive in Rossville is in the process of an $80,000 expansion.
“We are very excited about the opportunities that have presented themselves in the short time we have been here in Walker County,” said owner, Ryan Cox. “Our business continues to grow.”
Mr. Cox plans to spend about $80,000 on a 5,000-square-foot tank that will serve as a hatchery for catfish.
“This is the first phase of our expansion with the second phase planned for next summer,” Mr.
Cox said.
“I am very proud of what Mr. Cox continues to accomplish here in Walker County,” said Walker County Commissioner Bebe Heiskell. “It reminds us of what can be accomplished by hard work and determination.”
Five to 10 new jobs are expected to be created as a result of this hatchery expansion.
Inner City Aquaponics opened its doors in Rossville in May.
The hatchery, according to Mr. Cox will also double as a research opportunity for area high school students.
“We have had the good fortune to partner with many of the area high schools to provide training opportunities for those students interested in a career in aquaponics or hydroponics,” Mr. Cox said.
Aquaponics is sustainable food production that combines aquaculture (the raising of aquatic animals such as fish in tanks) with hydroponics (cultivating plants in water) in a common environment.
Mr. Cox explained that his first harvest of catfish should occur in June or July of next year.
“We currently have commitments purchasing everything we can produce through 2015,” he said.
There were many local elected officials on hand to help Mr. Cox with the breaking ground of the new hatchery, including many area schools represented as well.
“We have many individuals and students representing Ridgeland, LaFayette, and Gordon Lee High Schools here today,” Mr. Cox said. “Other regional schools in attendance include schools such as Hixson and Kennesaw High Schools as well.”