Biochar is an important emerging tool for productively dealing with organic wastes such as thinned woods, giving land stewards additional options for mitigating fire risk. Additionally, biochar can be used as an organic amendment that can help build productivity and is aligned with the healthy soil principles according to the NRCS.
In this workshop, attendees will *ideally* watch and participate in a biochar kiln burn led by Preston Englant. Weather conditions the day of the workshop will determine if a burn is possible, but attendees will participate in the preparation of a biochar kiln and review safety precautions and process either way. A good resource on biochar is Kelpie Wilson’s YouTube channel.
Workshop attendees will be provided with a workbook of instructions and considerations for making biochar in the southwest, and may have access to biochar kilns to borrow through the Quivira Coalition for conducting their own burns. Our hope is to establish a network of technical service providers who can supervise burns in New Mexico. This workshop is free to attend. Please bring your lunch. There will be some snacks and extra water.
Contact Cj at cj.ames@quiviracoalition.org with any questions.