Whiz-Q-Stone and Green Phoenix Farms

Rain Water Harvesting


Matt Reed with Whiz-Q-Stone   www.whiz-q.com presented RainXChange.  It's a system of capturing, filtering, and then reusing rainwater.  He can't make a business case for it but harvesting rainwater is a good thing to do in regards to using water wisely.  In many places the demand for water is outpacing the supply.  Many communities cannot handle irrigation needs.  Funny, as I write this, the news is talking about Texas towns that are out of water.  Water conservation is a solution.  Texas is considered a leader in water conservation.  Austin gives rain barrel rebates.  Check out house bills 645, 3391, and 3327 that talk about rain water harvesting and household potable water. 


Storm water runoff is the #1 cause of coastal pollution and our aging infrastructure can't handle it.  Some solutions include using impervious surfaces for driveways and roof tops and  rain gardens. www.rainxchange.com  has a calculator to predict water needs based on a thirty year average.  Dottie Woodson does local rain barrel classes.  I have always thought of her as the orchid lady!  Will be interesting to check out . .  




Green Phoenix Farms www.greenphoenixfarms.com
Adam Cohen is a school teacher with a background in marine biology and fisheries.  Sustainability is important to him because he wants there to be something for future generations.  Aquaculture was a natural fit for him.  Making it more affordable is his quest.  


Aquaponics recreates a natural balance in a controlled environment.  Fish waste is converted to plant fertilizer and then clean water comes back to the fish.  Will Allen www.growingpower.com provided Adam's inspiration as did the movie FOOD Inc. Adam developed a prototype to be used in a backyard.  Anyone can recreate this in their own space.


There are three basic systems:
1.  Ebb and flow - water is in grow beds and it goes up and down.  The roots need oxygen
2.  Continuous flood - the water level doesn't need to be changed
3.  Raft style - traditional hydroponic style of growth.  Plants float in a nutrient solution.  It's only good for certain types of plants and there needs to be a way to get fish solids out so the roots don't suffocate.


Adam's ultimate goals are to promote urban farming in Dallas, share information, and establish a community of aquaponics.