As southern Nevada works to strengthen food security amid an arid climate and limited arable land, is offering an educational certificate series on indoor vertical farming, or hydroponics, to equip commercial growers, home gardeners, Master Gardener volunteers and educators with research-based expertise in soil-free vegetable farming.
The will be held 2 - 4 p.m., Thursdays from April 16 to May 28, at , 2280 McDaniel St. Class size is limited to 30 participants. The course is led by researchers from the University’s College of Agriculture, Biotechnology & Natural Resources, and will guide attendees through advanced hydroponic systems, water-efficient production methods and techniques for boosting crop performance in controlled indoor environments.
“Indoor agriculture continues to gain momentum as communities look for reliable ways to produce food locally, despite climate and water limitations,” said Most Tahera Naznin, training instructor and associate professor of urban and indoor agriculture with the College’s Department of Agriculture, Veterinary & Rangeland Sciences. “This course translates our research into practical skills, giving participants the confidence and technical knowledge to grow high-quality produce efficiently and sustainably.”
Based in Clark County, Naznin conducts research through the College’s and delivers community programming through Extension. With the bulk of leafy greens consumed in southern Nevada still shipped in from other regions, she said that controlled-environment agriculture, such as hydroponic systems, offers significant potential to expand local production capacity. Through Extension’s , researchers and industry partners continue to support new and aspiring growers in reducing startup costs, improving production efficiency, and managing pests and plant health challenges.
“Building a resilient local food system requires a trained workforce,” Naznin said. “Indoor farming depends on technical expertise, from monitoring plant nutrition to maintaining automated systems, and by equipping more people with these skills, we’re helping strengthen Nevada’s food security and economic opportunity.”
Participants will visit Extension’s research facility, where they can experience firsthand the three hydroponic systems in action: nutrient film technique, deep water culture and aeroponics. They'll gain hands-on expertise in:
- Hydroponic systems design and management
- Plant nutrition, pH balancing and nutrient solutions
- Environmental controls, including light, temperature, humidity and airflow
- Pest and disease prevention strategies
- Harvesting, food safety and post-harvest handling
The registration fee is $100, which covers course materials and a certificate of attendance.
Master Gardener volunteers who wish to work with Extension’s hydroponics program must complete this course as part of the requirements for Advanced Certification in Hydroponics. Those interested should by April 15.
For more information on classes or certification, email Naznin or call him at 702-948-5917. Persons in need of special accommodations or assistance should email Paul Lessick, civil rights and compliance coordinator, or call him at 702-257-5577 at least five days prior to the scheduled event with their needs or for more information.
