SEGMENT: FARM BUSINESS & REFLECTIONS
Myles Harston>LPL Interviews A-M>LPL Interviews A-J, Segment 9
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- FARM BUSINESS
- Miles estimates there are hundreds of other small hydroponic operations. He also estimates that his operation is the largest in the US, with 12 1200 gallon tanks and looking to add more. He sees an opportunity for growth through education. Compares Chinese fish to lot fed beef, and his fish to grass fed beef. They do no hormonal manipulation of their fish. Others use methyl testosterone to change the sex of the fish so they grow faster. The problem is that many of these things have not been tested in the long run. Miles bought the division of Ringer Foods from Gary Ringer. He found the property in 2004. The president of Flannigan Bank has been very helpful. Some loans came through state programs. Built the facilities themselves in 2004, led by his son-in-law Rob Prickett and daughter Katielynn. Hoping to double their size. Looking in New Mexico for new sites, as well as near their current site. They sell their aquaponic produce to markets in Chicago, as well as Schnuck's Supermarket in Bloomington and Peoria. They used to serve the oriental market when they sold their fish live, but they can make more if they process them.
- REFLECTIONS
- Miles foresees more people looking for quality of food. Notes that Asians spend 30-40% of their annual income on food, where as Americans spend about 15%. He thinks people will look for organic food that hasn't been treated with pesticides or herbicides. Realizes it is a full-time job, he is "married to the fish."
