The Lake Superior State University Aquaculture Club, founded by students in 2019 and operating as a student LLC since 2012, is dedicated to promoting innovation in sustainable agriculture while building awareness of food security and freshwater ecosystem conservation. The club emphasizes hands-on learning through the management of three recirculating aquaponics systems, a three-tank mesocosm, and a vertical hydroponics setup. These systems currently support Koi, Atlantic salmon, yellow perch, crayfish, and a variety of plants while providing students with opportunities to explore aquaculture, horticulture, ichthyology, and system design.
The club places a strong emphasis on educating students and the community about aquaculture, aquaponic systems, and practices. Students take on active roles within the club, assisting in daily operations and outreach efforts. Members help organize and manage fundraisers that support system maintenance and new projects, while also coordinating volunteer activities, guiding tours of the aquaponics and hydroponics facilities, and contributing to educational outreach. Through these responsibilities, students strengthen their leadership, problem-solving, and communication skills. The club also hosts events and workshops for teachers and local 4-H groups, helping to spark early interest in aquaculture. In addition, the club has participated in regional and national conferences, and began presenting results of their own research in 2022. Current and previous club members have been recognized at USAS and WAS meetings for their work promoting aquaculture and will be involved with a USDA funded grant promoting workforce development in collaboration with the Ohio State University and Purdue University.
These opportunities expand the club’s network, expose students to cutting-edge innovations, and pave the way for future collaborations that enrich both academic and career growth.
The club continues to expand research involvement on campus, welcoming undergraduate participation in studies related to water-quality analysis, metal ion accumulation, Koi genetics and crayfish biology. With growing leadership, professional networking, and active engagement in community education, the LSSU Aquaculture Club aims to strengthen its role as a USAS Subunit and foster future professionals in sustainable freshwater aquaculture.