Lanikai Farms is a unique fish breeding facility that uses biological filtration and rainwater runoff channeled from adjoining nursery structures to create a healthy and financially efficient environment for raising fish. Designed by Lloyd Fischel, this commercial operation is the first of its kind on the island of Maui. The photograph shows the 3,000 gallon biological filter with the 55,000 gallon breeding pond in the background.


Fragrant Orchids of Maui is adjacent to Lanikai Farms.

In a presentation at a national aquaculture conference Lloyd touted Hawaii’s aquaculture industry leaders, their courage and determination to develop and promote Hawaii’s commercial aquaculture. In so doing, the comments stress the philosophical spirit behind Lanikai Farms. “The environmental landscape mirrors the hearts and minds of people who at this point in history are in control of virtually all land and its accompanying water resources. The reality is that corporate business values are steadily depleting the natural environment and hardening areas that were once water sources with concrete and asphalt."

Lanikai Farms is a beautiful example of how channeling natural resources can become a source of enrichment to any neighborhood and surrounding community. And, in times of trouble or scarcity, such endeavors will be an important source of sustenance.

Simple and efficient, 100% of rainwater is channeled from a 6,500 sq. ft. greenhouse roof. Rain in the Haiku region rises above 100 inches annually.

Culture pens keep different varieties and sizes of fish separate.

Funded in part by the U.S. Department of Commerce, NOAA Sea Grant’s Pacific Tropical Ornamental Fish Program (PTOFP), and the Economic Development Alliance of Hawaii, this facility is open to schools for field trips (grades 5-12.) Students are taught the basics of fish farming. The instructional method is hands-on and covers water quality and filtration. High school students learn about commercial breeding issues. Junior high student Jennifer Lopez says, “I learned so much and in such a fun way about how farms can grow fish using rain captured from building runoff as we saw at Lanikai Farms.” Lanikai Farms is breeding koi ornamentals, and other fish for sale through local retail outlets. Two hour educational sessions must be scheduled at least a month in advance. Lanikai Farms is wheelchair friendly.