Because of major challenges such as global climate change and water shortages, aquaponic farms are expected to become a much more common way to sustainably grow food in the United States and elsewhere, Next Generation Farming owners Max and Rachael Lyons say.
“We can grow a head of lettuce in 35 days, compared to about 75 days for one traditionally grown in soil, and it will have three times the shelf life,” Max said. “We can raise up to 620 heads of lettuce per week.”
Taking root
Max, 33, grew up in Laurel Hill and Rachael, 29, grew up in Crestview. They currently run a concrete construction business that builds infrastructure on local military bases, but are moving toward making Next Generation Farming their full-time focus. Rachael just finished her last day as a pediatric registered nurse.