Aquaponics combines plant cultivation and fish farming in a closed interdependent ecosystem. It is an ideal example of waste free sustainability seen in nature where there are virtually no unusable by-products.

Canyonleigh resident Grant Blanchard has become something of an expert in aquaponics with his growing greenhouse in Satori Springs, Canyonleigh.

"The benefit of aquaponics is growing pesticide free vegetables and fish, enough to feed a family or more," Mr Blanchard said.

Mr Blanchard's aquaponics centre grows plants and herbs including lettuce, basil and beetroot and would easily sustain the vegetable consumption of 10 people.

The centre also grows and feeds about 200 Rainbow Trout. The secrets of growing a successful aquaponic system will be shared this August by Mr Blanchard and several experts in the field.

Mr Blanchard will hold an Introduction to Aquaponics Seminar on August 30 and 31 at his Satori Springs property.

This will be the first seminar of its kind in the Southern Highlands.

"At the seminar people will be able to get advice from experts on how to build and use an aquaponic system and walk away with the knowledge to grow one on their own," he said.

"When you grow it yourself, it's not as hard as you think.

"It can fit into a backyard or in a balcony so it can be done on a small or a grand scale."

Speakers during the seminar will include Nate Storey from the United States of America who has a PhD in aquaponics, proprietor of Fresh by Nature, John Burgess, who supplies quality aquaponics products, permaculture teacher and practitioner Jill Cockram, Milkwood's founder Nick Ritar, and several other experts.

"Experts from Australia and the United States of America will train people who want to learn about aquaponics and people who want to build and grow aquaponics at home," Mr Blanchard said.

The seminar is ideal for people who want to learn more about sustainable agriculture and for people and organisations wishing to use aquaponics commercially.

For those interested, the seminar is available for residential and day participants.

Click here for more details.