Spicewood supply shop expects growth for 2014

Gary Hoffman, owner of Paleface Feed & Garden Supply, said the sale of home aquaponic gardens has taken off in 2013 and 2014. Aquaponics is a sustainable food production system that combines raising aquatic animals, or aquaculture, with cultivating plants in water, or hydroponics, to create a symbiotic environment.

"People spent all last year investigating [aquaponics], and now they are investing in it," he said. "The poor soil quality and the lack of rain this year have really pushed sales."

Hoffman said he expects aquaponics sales to more than double this year.

"I have had a lot of people talking to me about systems for about six months, and they are getting ready to jump in," he said.

Hoffman said he also plans to expand his business by offering space to local vendors to sell their wares.

"We want local people in here selling not just food products, but arts and crafts," he said.

Hoffman also plans to start a co-op in the parking lot of his store later this year. He said he hopes to host the co-op every other week, and the growth in the area will support these new ventures.

"I get new customers every day because of the growth out here," he said. "The growth is what is driving us. I couldn't be in a better place for business at this time."

21120 W. Hwy. 71, Spicewood, 512-264-3925, www.palefacefeed.com