Ivy Tech is building a hydroponic and aquaponic greenhouse

Describing the facility that's under development at Ivy Tech as just a greenhouse seems like an understatement.

The structure, which is on the southwest corner of The Steel Dynamics Inc. Keith E. Busse Technology Center, won't be like any other offered at other Ivy Tech campuses. None have the hydroponics capabilities – growing plants with water and no soil – and the aquaponics systems – hydroponics assisted by farmed fish – the Fort Wayne campus will boast, said Kelli Kreider, the agriculture program chair.

The college can “integrate so many components in this facility, it's incredible,” she said.

The more than 3,000-square-foot greenhouse is being financed by $486,000 in donations and grants from private individuals and foundations.

Ivy Tech this month recognized Old National Bank for its contribution. It is donating $50,000 in the next three years toward the greenhouse and $11,000 during the same time frame to provide scholarships for Easterseals Arc of Northeast Indiana clients who will participate in agriculture and culinary training programs, according to a news release.

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