GrowUp! Hydroponics STEAM Summer Camp

Overview

The “GrowUp! Hydroponics” summer camp will introduce students to the world of hydroponic farming through engaging hands-on activities, guest speakers, and possible field trips, ensuring students gain a comprehensive understanding of vertical farming techniques and their real-world applications.  

PRE-CAMP INFO SESSION  SATURDAY, MAY 10TH @ 10AM @ Produce'd Hydroponics Farm

Program Goals:

1. Introduce students to sustainable agriculture practices through hydroponics.

2. Foster creativity and problem-solving through hands-on design challenges.

3. Build foundational STEM skills, such as critical thinking, data monitoring, observation, and reflection.

4. Highlight connections between agriculture, technology, and food systems.

5. Encourage teamwork and collaboration within group projects.

Key Techniques and Skills:

• Propagation and germination techniques.
• Pollination processes and their importance in farming.
• pH testing for optimal plant growth.
• Monitoring and maintaining hydroponics systems.
• Cooking demonstrations using hydroponically grown produce.
• Comparing soil-based vs. soilless farming methods.
• Sustainability in agriculture.

Hands-On Projects:

• Hydroponics System Monitoring: Students will work in groups to observe and record data from an operational hydroponics system.
• GrowBlock Assembly: Participants will build and test their own GrowBlock systems to understand the mechanisms behind hydroponics.
• Design Challenge: Students will design (and prototype) their own hydroponics systems, incorporating creativity and STEM principles.

Special Activities:

• Field Trips: Visit to agricultural centers, or vertical farming facilities for realworld insights (pending final schedule).
• Guest Speakers: Interactive sessions with farmers, agritech experts, and local chefs focusing on sustainable food systems.

Creative Expression:

• Students will design their own camp t-shirts to represent the collaboration between Produce’d and their respective school, with themes of vertical farming and sustainability.
• Optional art project: Designing posters or models highlighting hydroponics benefits to display at the closeout ceremony.

Community Engagement

• Celebratory Close-Out Session: At the end of the week, students will present their projects and share their learnings with parents, community members, and local education representatives. Activities will include:
• Group presentations on hydroponics system designs.
• Slideshow of activities completed during the week
• Showcasing student-designed t-shirts, posters, or other creative projects.
• Certificates of completion for each participant.
• Cake and light refreshments for attendees.