WE ARE COMMITTED TO GROWING THE NEXT GENERATION OF FARMERS AND ENVIRONMENTAL STEWARDS

3-MONTH FARMER TRAINING PROGRAM

The 3-month Aquaponics Farm Training Program offers comprehensive, hands-on training in every aspect of running a small, environmentally sustainable, diversified aquaponics operation alongside traditional soil cultivation. From system design and fish care to plant production and day-to-day management, participants gain the practical experience and confidence needed to build and sustain their own thriving urban farms.

PROGRAM FEE: $2,500.00  

DURATION:  3 months (3 days/week including Saturdays)

PROGRAM GOALS

Oko Farms is committed to ensuring that trainees leave the program with a strong foundation in aquaponics system operation, design, and construction. The training emphasizes aquaponics as a living, natural ecosystem and highlights its connections to permaculture principles.

By the end of the program, participants will have the skills to design, build, and maintain sustainable aquaponics operations of various sizes. They will also be prepared to confidently engage the public on a range of topics such as aquaponics, fish welfare, and sustainable agriculture.

the public on the diverse topics relating to aquaponics, fish welfare and ecosystem sustainability.

There is no previous aquaponics or farming experience necessary to participate in this program. All that is required is

  • willingness to commit to the full program.

  • willingness to engage with the community

  • open-mindedness and flexibility in adapting to various tasks throughout the program

PROGRAM COMPONENTS

  • FORMAL WORKSHOPS

    You will receive structured workshops covering a wide range of essential topics, including aquaponics system hardware, technology, and design; water quality management; record keeping; botany and crop planning; fish biology, selection, welfare, and nutrition; integrated pest management; and industry best practices.

  • HANDS-ON FARM WORK

    Oko Farms training program includes up to 12 hours a week of hands-on farm work. Trainees will participate in a variety of farm-related tasks to enhance your educational experience and empower you with skills to run your own operation. These activities allow trainees to experience firsthand the subjects covered in lecture: updating the farms current aquaponics system, seed starting and transplanting; caring for livestock; aquaponics water quality monitoring and maintenance; pest and disease management (for livestock and plants); aquaponics hardware monitoring and maintenance; composting; harvesting, washing, sorting, packing, produce distribution and sales. 

    The farm team will be present to provide instruction, answer questions, and offer support at all times. As trainees become more confident and knowledgeable, they are encouraged to take initiative on volunteer projects or operations of interest. 

  • COMMUNITY EDUCATION

    Sustainable urban aquaculture via aquaponics is a relatively new practice to many people, particularly New York City residents. Trainees will participate in guided farm tours aimed at school groups and community members to increase their ability to speak comfortably about aquaponics farming.

Are you ready to commit to an exciting and fulfilling experience? We look forward to your participation!

Registration for 2026 coming soon!