Garden Locations

Original prototype aquaponic garden for Haiti. Built in honor of George Powell (see history of 100 Gardens)

Aquaponics career skills development for incarcerated youth. The greenhouse aquaponic system and outdoor raised beds produce a weekly harvest of leafy greens for the cafeteria.

Aquaponics greenhouse program for Agriculture CTE (career and technical education). In 2016, the French and Agriculture classes worked together to create aquaponics instructional videos for students in Haiti.

Aquaponics greenhouse program for Agriculture and Culinary CTE, Originally built out of recycled materials in the old greenhouse. In 2018, a new greenhouse was constructed with a state-of-the-art aquaponic system. Produce is donated to The Bulb and Refugee Support Services.

An aquaponics learning center was constructed in 2016 from a collaboration between Johnson C. Smith University, Joseph’s Exchange and 100 Gardens. The garden consists of an 800 gallon in ground concrete fish pond, and three raft hydroponics beds. The system is powered by solar panels with battery storage.

St. Vincent’s School for the Handicapped is a school for deaf, blind, and physically disabled children in Haiti. 100 Gardens built a small system on campus to introduce aquaponics technology to the students.

This project was truly unique in that it was conceived, funded and implemented by a group of students at Myers Park High School in Charlotte, NC. This aquaponics system is one part of “The Mustang Project”, an initiative created by students at Myers Park to bring gardens and fresh food into the community and provide experiential learning opportunities for their fellow students. The system is operated by Occupational Course of Study (OCS) students and Culinary CTE classes.

The aquaponics program at Webb Street School began in February 2017 with a small one-table system for vocational training. Serving students with significant cognitive and physical disabilities, the program’s early success led to a grant from the Carrie E. and Lena V. Glenn Foundation, which funded the construction of a dedicated greenhouse system that opened with a ribbon-cutting on January 29, 2018. A second Glenn Foundation grant in 2019 supported upgrades to the greenhouse’s heating, cooling, and ventilation systems. Today, the thriving program supplies fresh greens—grown and harvested by students—to Webb Custom Kitchen, Gaston Pour House, and Lincolnton Country Club.

Family-run aquaponics farm in Stateville, NC. A 25’x50’ aquaponics greenhouse supplies local markets with fresh lettuce, basil, and tilapia.

At Hickory Grove Christian School (HGCS) in Charlotte, North Carolina, the aquaponics program serves as a cornerstone of the school’s commitment to integrating STEM education with Christian mission. Students engage in a two-tiered curriculum: Level 1 introduces foundational concepts in biology, chemistry, physics, and environmental science, while Level 2 delves into system design, engineering, and practical skills such as plumbing and electrical work.

Internationally, HGCS leverages its aquaponics expertise to support missions in countries such as the Dominican Republic, Ecuador, Haiti, and Kenya. By teaching sustainable farming techniques and providing resources, the school empowers communities to achieve greater food security and self-sufficiency.

Innovative skill-building program for visually-impaired high school students. The 20’x40’ aquaponics greenhouse consists of a media-based aquaponic system growing leafy greens and channel catfish.

Students at Oakhurst STEAM Academy use the aquaponic garden to learn STEM, social and emotional skills, and to foster a better understanding of our environment.

What began as an after-school program funded through grants from Campbell’s and the Charlotte Hornets, the West Charlotte HS aquaponics has evolved into a workforce development program for Occupational Course of Study (OCS) students and Career and Technical Education (CTE) classes. Students regularly harvest and sell their produce to staff and local businesses.

The aquaponic garden at PLP provides students with STEM learning in aquaponics, development of sensors, and robotics. The after-school aquaponics club consists of over 50 students that maintain the garden and sell produce to their community. Several students have conducted aquaponics research for their senior projects.

This school is a unique program in that they have an aquaponic system in their school cafeteria as well as a large aquaponic system in a lab downstairs. Students utilize their systems in both in-school activities as well as an after-school program that grows food for a market at AvidxChange, the primary funder for this project. We collaborate with Do Greater Charlotte, who provides entrepreneurship education using the aquaponic garden.

At the Berkshire County Jail & House of Correction in Pittsfield, Massachusetts, an innovative aquaponics program equips inmates with practical skills in sustainable agriculture while addressing local food insecurity. Launched in early 2020, the 60-by-72-foot Aquaponics Lab produces over 1,000 heads of lettuce weekly, with the majority donated to community food banks and shelters. Inmates actively participate in all aspects of the operation—from cultivating fish and plants to maintaining equipment—gaining valuable experience in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) fields. This program, developed in collaboration with 100 Gardens and funded by Berkshire Education and Correction Services, serves as a model for integrating rehabilitation, education, and community service within the correctional system.

At Bonnie Cone Classical Academy, aquaponics is woven into a classical education framework that values observation, inquiry, and real-world application. Students manage a living system that cultivates both tilapia and leafy greens, reinforcing science concepts through hands-on learning. The students regularly sell their produce to parents in the pickup line.

The Stem2Fork program at CCHS integrates Agriculture, Culinary Arts, and Occupational Course of study classes to grow food for the community and for use in the culinary program. Students harvest up to 300 heads of leafy greens weekly and up to 200 pounds of tilapia each school year. Several students have presented about their aquaponic system at the FFA conference.

At Charlotte Mecklenburg Academy, students in the Occupational Course of Study (OCS) pathway operate an aquaponics system as part of their daily academic and workforce development experience. In a calm, structured setting designed to support emotional and behavioral needs, students grow leafy greens and care for fish while building confidence, consistency, and transferable skills. The program turns required work hours into meaningful, hands-on learning—bridging the gap between classroom instruction and real-world opportunity.

Students at Freedom Prep explore science through the school’s aquaponics system. Students take part in feeding the fish, observing plant growth, and asking questions about how nature works—all while learning core STEM concepts in a fun and meaningful way. The program encourages curiosity, responsibility, and a love for sustainability from an early age.

Students helped to build a DIY aquaponic system out of available materials they sources for little or no cost. In addition to the aquaponic system, students hep operate an outdoor farm that fosters the development of social and career skills.

At Charlotte’s Innovation Barn, the aquaponics lab—developed in partnership with Envision Charlotte—produces fresh, hyperlocal food for nearby restaurants while serving as a hands-on example of circular economy innovation. The space also functions as an educational hub, inspiring visitors to think differently about food, waste, and sustainability.

At North Kannapolis Elementary School, students participate in an engaging, hands-on aquaponics program that supports STEM learning and environmental education. Funded by the Kannapolis Education Foundation, the program offers students unique opportunities to explore science and sustainability through real-world applications that enrich the classroom experience.

Created by students on the university’s sustainability committee, the aquaponics program provides internship opportunities for biology students and career training for students with developmental challenges.

Stoner-Thomas School in Lexington, North Carolina, launched its aquaponics program in the fall of 2023. This initiative is designed to provide students with significant disabilities, aged 5–22, with hands-on vocational training and life skills development. Students engage in various aspects of the aquaponics system, gaining practical experience that enhances their academic understanding and vocational skills. The program emphasizes independence and real-world application, aligning with the school’s mission to prepare students for life beyond graduation. The produce harvested from the aquaponics lab is sold at local farmers’ markets, package for salads for the school staff and to nearby businesses, such as Sophie’s Cork & Ale in Uptown Lexington. This community involvement provides students with opportunities to interact with the public, manage transactions, and understand the value of their work.

At the Plymouth County Correctional Facility in Massachusetts, a 1,500-square-foot aquaponics greenhouse offers inmates hands-on training in sustainable agriculture while producing fresh food for the community. Supported by a grant from the Massachusetts Department of Agricultural Resources and technical guidance from 100 Gardens, the program teaches STEM and workforce skills, donates produce to local food banks, and hosts educational visits from students and homeschool groups.

Eastway Middle School in Charlotte, North Carolina, is actively engaged in the Full Futures initiative—a collaborative program designed to integrate food education, sustainability, and hands-on learning into the school environment. This initiative, supported by partners such as 100 Gardens, Campbell’s Soup Company, and has brought an aquaponics lab to Eastway Middle School, fostering a unique educational experience for students. The school’s efforts are part of a broader movement within Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools to promote food accessibility and education.  The program extends beyond the classroom, involving students in teaching aquaponics principles to their families and the broader community. This outreach fosters community engagement and allows students to develop communication and leadership skills.

The aquaponics lab at Merry Oaks International Academy serves as a dynamic classroom where students learn about sustainable agriculture by cultivating plants and raising fish in a symbiotic environment. This hands-on approach not only teaches students about biology and environmental science but also instills a sense of responsibility and teamwork.Students have the opportunity to apply their knowledge practically. For instance, they have used leafy greens grown in the aquaponics lab to prepare meals like guacamole and tacos, integrating culinary arts into their learning experience. This interdisciplinary approach enhances students’ understanding of nutrition, cooking, and the importance of sustainable food practices. During the 24-25 school year MOIA students completed the 100 Gardens Aquaneers program where they applied aquaponics to lessons regarding; Community, Aquaponics, Building, Conservation, Personal Food Cycle, Economy, and A New Way of Thinking.

The Independence Aquaponics Garden welcomed its first fish and students in the fall of 2024. Students are involved in every aspect of the garden. From planting the seeds, tending the fish, harvesting the leafy greens to packaging and donating the produce. From culinary classes to workforce development the aquaponics garden provides hands-on learning opportunities in a way that is meaningful to the success of students and staff. As part of the Charlotte Full Futures initiative—a collaborative program designed to integrate food education, sustainability, and hands-on learning into the school environment, this initiative was supported by partners 100 Gardens, and the Campbell’s Foundation.

At Lincoln Charter School’s Denver campus, high school students participate in a hands-on aquaponics program that integrates environmental science, biology, computer science, and culinary arts. Students maintain a weekly harvest of leafy greens and a yearly fish harvest and fish fry event, This experiential learning approach not only reinforces scientific concepts but also fosters environmental stewardship and practical problem-solving skills.

At Fayetteville State University (FSU), the Research Education Enrichment Facility (REEF) serves as a dynamic center for immersive learning in marine biology and environmental science. Situated within the Department of Biological and Forensic Sciences, the REEF offers students and community members hands-on experiences with diverse aquatic ecosystems, including coral reef aquariums and interactive touch tanks. With the addition of the Aquaponics Lab, students understand ecological relationships and gain insights into sustainable practices. The facility supports FSU’s commitment to STEM education and continues the tradition of innovation in agriculture and environmental sciences at Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs).

At the Catawba Nation, a new aquaponics lab has been established to enhance food sovereignty and provide hands-on educational opportunities for community members. This facility cultivates tilapia, native fish species, and leafy greens, integrating traditional knowledge with sustainable agricultural practices. Complementing this initiative is the Black Snake Farm, a 22-acre enterprise dedicated to growing heirloom crops unique to the Catawba Nation, such as the culturally significant kus corn. Together, these programs aim to revitalize traditional farming methods, promote environmental stewardship, and ensure access to fresh, locally produced food for the Catawba community.

At Emory H. Markle Middle School in Hanover, Pennsylvania, a new aquaponics lab has been established to enhance hands-on STEM education. Funded by a grant from Full Futures, the aquaponics system provides students with practical experience in sustainable agriculture, aligning with the school’s commitment to experiential learning and environmental stewardship.

At Trinity Episcopal School in Charlotte, North Carolina, the aquaponics lab—funded by Compass Group—serves as an innovative educational platform that integrates STEM learning with interactive food and nutrition education. This hands-on environment allows students to explore sustainable agriculture practices, enhancing their understanding of science and health through real-world applications. The program reflects the school’s commitment to experiential learning and environmental stewardship, providing students with practical skills and knowledge in a dynamic setting.