WAYNESBORO – GEMS Farm invites the public to join owners Michael and Sharon Reifsnyder for the inaugural tour of their new indoor aquaponics farm at 4 PM on Thursday, May 21.
Aquaponics is a sustainable farming method combining aquaculture (raising aquatic animals like fish) and hyrdoponics (cultivating plants without soil) in a, closed-loop system. Fish waste provides natural nutrients for plants; plants filter the water, which is then recirculated back to the fish tank.
The Reifsnyders have built their aquaponics farm from the ground up. Production of fish and greens started in late 2025 at this former drycleaning facility. While many aquaponics farmers purchase ready-made systems at great cost, tour attendees will learn how they have salvaged and purchased components online at lower cost, constructing their system that even newer, small farmers can replicate.
Michael Reifsnyder, a U.S. Navy veteran, said, “It’s fun and exciting to be able to have a vision to build something from scratch using readily available items and see it come to life”.
Guests will also learn how the owners have worked with their local municipality to establish the operation, and about their plans to market the fish, vegetables and herbs they’re producing. The Reifsnyders have leveraged their experience as hops growers in Carlisle as they expand the GEMS Farm operations to diversify their agricultural footprint and weather economic and other agricultural challenges that many small farmers are experiencing.
This tour is appropriate for both those just starting out in agriculture and more experienced vegetable growers considering aquaponics as an option for their operations. Space is limited to 20 attendees; there is no cost to attend, but donations to co-sponsor PA Veteran Farming Network in support of veteran agriculture education will be accepted and appreciated.
This event is held in partnership with the PA Veteran Farming Network with support from the Caroline Frederika Holdship Charitable Trust. Readers may learn more and register no later than May 19th at https://www.pavetfarms.org/workshops.
