Aquaponics in New England: Introduction

Can aquaponics work as an economically competitive system in New England? I admit that the technique may not initially appear suited to the region: traditional farming and fishing have had long, successful histories in New England, and one of aquaponics' main advantages, water conservation, would seem best applied to an arid climate. However, I believe that aquaponics fits quite well, and here's why:

1. It can supplement the offerings of traditional farming and fishing where they have limits;
2. It can significantly improve the sustainability of produce and fish production; and
3. It can foster a substantial increase in local food production that will strengthen food security and protect our natural resources – especially important in a future with a changing climate and growing population

Each of these three arguments is laid out in the individual posts below (Parts I-III), and you can download the a PDF of the complete paper here. My home state of Massachusetts will serve as the example throughout, and I use the term ‘traditional farming’ to refer to soil based agriculture including organic and non-organic. 

As a life-long New Englander, I see aquaponics as a means to participate in the revival of its once thriving agricultural community, all while preserving its natural resources to the highest degree. I look forward to hearing your thoughts. Enjoy!