Built on community, sustainability, quality, and consistency, Dayton Valley Aquaponics (DVA) is the area’s best-kept farming secret. Specializing in locally grown vegetables and raising fresh tilapia to the Reno/Tahoe area and beyond, this aquaponic farm produces fresh vegetables and seafood all season long.
Unlike traditional farms, DVA utilizes cutting-edge technology, a state-of-the-art aquaponic system, and integrates environmentally friendly practices to ensure that its vegetables and seafood are harvested at the peak of ripeness while minimizing its environmental impact. Whether it’s spicy peppers, rich butter greens, or sweet cherry tomatoes, nothing is sacrificed when it comes to freshness, quality, and sustainability.
“Be it purples or browns, pinks or reds, our vine-ripened tomatoes – as with everything we grow – are both visually appealing and mouth-wateringly delicious,” said Trevor Birba, Business Manager.
In addition to its vegetables DVA also raises Sierra Blue Tilapia all year long. Housed within 45,000 gallons of circulating water, with any excess amount recycling back into the system, 7,800 tilapia produce the nutrients that ultimately feed the plants.
These Sierra Blue Tilapia are raised in clear, oxygen-rich water and are fed a high-quality, wild-like feed. These conditions result in fish that have higher levels of omega-3 and lower levels of omega-6 fatty acids, which, compared to average tilapia, make them more nutrient dense and healthier.
“Our fish come from the best genetic stock available and are fed as close to a ‘wild diet’ as possible,” said Birba. “Through our environmentally friendly practices, our solar-powered aquaponic greenhouse produces some of the healthiest and most sustainably raised tilapia on the market.”
“We harvest our Sierra Blue Tilapia following International Humane Animal Welfare slaughter practices, as dictated by the HSA,” said Mark Warrell, Production Manager. “We harvest humanely with the animal in mind. Others don’t.”
DVA’s proximity to its customers leads its products to have a higher nutrient density because the distance and time from harvest to plate is significantly shorter than the industry average.
“DVA is designed to provide the Sierra Nevada area with fresh, local produce, not just for peak season, but all year long,” said Birba. “Who needs seasons anyway?”
