State-funded aquaponics lab in Camp Hill provides students with science, business skills

Gov. Tom Wolf recently toured West Shore School District’s new aquaponics lab at Cedar Cliff High School in Camp Hill, funded by a $250,000 Strategic Innovation grant from the state’s Department of Labor & Industry.

The lab will serve the district’s 14 schools and will teach students hydroponic plant growth, food production, and plant propagation. In addition, the district’s high school students will use the lab for crop rotation studies, plant lighting manipulation, fish breeding and rearing practices, and propagation techniques.

The lab combines aquaculture and hydroponics, and will be used to grow fish, feedstock, fruits, vegetables, and other plant products year-round.

“This new lab goes beyond teaching students about aquaculture and hydroponics to creating opportunities to learn about leadership, technology, and marketing,” Wolf said. “This is another example of the workforce development strategies my administration is supporting to prepare future generations with the knowledge and skills to succeed and make Pennsylvania an attractive place for growing and emerging industries to do business.”

The lab provides a catalyst for district-wide STEAM experiences and hands-on learning, said Todd Stoltz, West Shore School District superintendent, and also is valuable to students
interested in communications, education, finance, science, marketing, and technology careers.