In a significant development for agricultural and conservation efforts in Washington State, Governor Jay Inslee has recently signed Substitute Senate Bill 6121, allowing the Toledo-based startup Rake Force to expand its biochar production using flame cap kilns. This unanimous decision by both the House and the Senate marks a pivotal moment for the agroforestry sector, particularly for companies involved in sustainable land management and carbon sequestration practices.

Biochar, a charcoal-like substance derived from organic agricultural and forestry waste, is celebrated for its ability to improve soil health and capture carbon. The process of creating biochar involves the partial combustion of biomass in an oxygen-limited environment, a method known for its environmental benefits, including reduced pollutants compared to traditional slash pile burning and contributions to soil remediation and water filtration.

Rake Force, co-founded by Jake Dailey and Brian Dennis in 2021, specializes in converting cleared biomass into biochar on a small scale. However, prior to the passing of SSB 6121, the company faced regulatory hurdles, as the state Department of Natural Resources did not differentiate flame cap kilns from burn barrels, which are prohibited due to their toxic emissions. The new legislation not only recognizes flame cap kilns as an integral part of sustainable land management but also introduces a burn permit subsection specifically for their use in biochar production. Additionally, it offers the potential for earning carbon credits, facilitating a small carbon market that supports fuels reduction work.

This legislative victory was the result of collaborative efforts, including advocacy by the Washington Farm Forestry Association and support from several state senators and representatives. It underscores the growing acknowledgment of biochar’s role in environmental conservation and the importance of innovative solutions in addressing climate change and enhancing food security through soil health improvement.

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• Legislation addressing biochar production allows Toledo-based Rake Force to improve operations

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