Facility Type
Academics
This demonstration and research facility serves as a living laboratory for SUNY Morrisville students. The 4,000-gallon aquaponics system can produce up to 22,000 heads of lettuce and 1,700 pounds of fish per year. Vine crop production includes a hydroponic tomato, cucumber and pepper system.
The system was supported by NY State Sen. David J. Valesky (D-Oneida) through the Empire State Development Corporation and a grant from the New York State Energy Research and Development.
Other features include:
- The system features a 30-foot by 60-foot greenhouse with 10' twin-wall polycarbonate sidewalls and a double-layer polyethylene roof
- The Nutrient Film Technique (NFT) hydroponic system grows lettuce, herbs and greens
- The system’s energy curtain retains heat and reduces reduce solar radiation
- Vertical airflow fans enhance transpiration and minimize disease development
- High-pressure sodium supplemental lighting increases photosynthesis allowing for consistent production year round
- A fan-and-pad cooling system lowers the air temperature in the greenhouse during the summer
- The hydronic heating system, fueled partly by biodiesel, maintains air temperature at 75°F during the day and 65°F at night
- Sensors measure and record temperature, humidity, light and carbon dioxide levels
- The computerized environmental control system automatically operates equipment to maintain stable and favorable conditions in the growing environment
Tours of the Aquaculture Center are available by appointment by calling 315.684.6590 or 315.684.6423.