On Friday, August 9, an educational session in Elkader, Iowa, USA will teach attendees the methods for creating biocharBiochar is a carbon-rich material created from biomass decomposition in low-oxygen conditions. It has important applications in environmental remediation, soil improvement, agriculture, carbon sequestration, energy storage, and sustainable materials, promoting efficiency and reducing waste in various contexts while addressing climate change challenges. More, a powerful soil amendmentA soil amendment is any material added to the soil to enhance its physical or chemical properties, improving its suitability for plant growth. Biochar is considered a soil amendment as it can improve soil structure, water retention, nutrient availability, and microbial activity.   More that can be made from upcycled materials and organic waste.

Biochar has been used for centuries to improve the fertility of poor soils, and has seen a renewed interest for its ability to store carbon underground long-term, where it provides habitat for beneficial soil microbes, reducing the need for fertilization. It also shows the potential to improving water quality, by intercepting nutrients carried by groundwater and holding them in place before they enter adjacent waterways.

This program will cover the creation methods and applications for biochar, including some do’s and don’ts for creating your own.

This program is free and will run from 6-8:00 p.m. Participants are asked to register by calling the Osborne Nature Center at 563 245-1516. Children under the age of 16 must be accompanied by an adult. The event will take place at the Osborne Pond Shelterhouse, located at 29458 Hwy 13, Elkader, Iowa. For more information on events visit www.claytoncountyconservation.org.