Westchester Enriched Sciences Magnet

Westchester Enriched Sciences Magnet high school will focus on three key goals.

1. Develop efficient, replicable aquaponic farming systems that reduce environmental impact.

Aquaponics is a method of farming that symbiotically combines fish and plants in a continuously cycling water-based growing system. This system mimics an ecosystem and significantly reduces water, fertilizer, and pesticide usage. Further, the system can be based indoors, making it a year-round growing option that can be placed close to the site of consumption. Waters Wheel will develop low-cost, high-efficiency systems that can be built by users in onsite classes or using manuals posted online.

2. Offer broad educational curriculum on all The Root Stock Foundation/Waters Wheel/Westchester Urban Farm’s sustainable activities. Westchester Urban Farm, in conjunction with The Root Stock Foundation, will create a wide-ranging, high-quality educational program that will serve all demographics and levels of expertise within the Enriched Sciences Magnet program at Westchester High School.

Programming for the general public will focus on at-home aquaponic farming, sustainable living, gardening, cooking, and environmental science.

For professionals and university students, The Root Stock Foundation, Waters Wheel and Westchester Urban Farm will offer in-depth seminars on commercial aquaponic farming, closed-loop resource systems, sustainable food production, and job development.

And to assist new and small business owners, Waters Wheel will offer specific programs that focus on financing, marketing, and management.

3. Solar Installation. We are in discussion with a solar energy manufacturer and installer about the contribution of a small panel to power, specifically, the electrical pumps, water heaters and fans within the greenhouse.

http://articles.latimes.com/2013/jun/02/local/la-me-aspen-challenge-20130603