We are in process of setting up an aquaponics system. The fish provide the nutrients to the plants and the plants clean the water for the fish. There are several groups -some US and much of it from Australia. Chickens are soon coming here too. Good luck!

If animals are allowed where you are (best to check first), my first choice is chickens. You don't need a rooster for eggs (just for chicks), and hens tend to be pretty quiet except for their cackling after they lay an egg. I have four Buff Orpington hens, chosen for their gentle nature and non-flightiness. Always get at least two, as they ARE flock creatures.

You might look up 'chicken tractor' (Andy Lee has a great book about them, too) for keeping them confined but giving them access to soil, bugs and grass/weeds. If you let them loose in your garden, they will scratch everywhere with their BIG FEET and destroy any plant that isn't fairly well established.

Rabbits are quiet too, but you have to keep them penned or they will dig out.

Many food plants are both pretty and productive, and fit right in with any edible landscaping. Buying from local nurseries is better than mail order, as the plants tend to be more suited to your local climate.

Read, read, read! There is always more to learn!

Sue, too!