Biochar

Biochar - What and Why

We've been talking a lot about getting biochar onto your farm and not us much time talking about why you might want it. 

Biochar is one of the tools you can add to your toolkit for improving soil health, boosting productivity and increasing the sustainability of your farm. Let's dive in!

What is Biochar? 

Biochar is a carbon-rich material created by heating organic matter -like agricultural waste or fallen trees - in a low oxygen environment through a process called pyrolysis. It isn't your traditional bonfire, with the low oxygen intake, the process helps with carbon sequestration. Locking carbon into the biochar makes it stable and capable of lasting in the soil for hundreds of years. 

This process is centuries old, but is gaining traction and attention with Climate Smart agricultural practices and the USDA's partnerships for Climate-Smart Commodities. 

Why Use Biochar? 

Adding biochar to your soil has the capacity to: 

• Enhance Soil Health through improving soil structure, aeration and water holding capacity
• Increase Nutrient Retention by reducing leaching and enduring more efficient use of fertilizer
• Improve Microbial Activity by giving them a hospitable environment
• Sequestering Carbon to reduce greenhouse gas emissions
• Reduce Input Costs by lowering the needed for fertilizers and irrigation

It's for Everyone

Whether you are a row cropper, a livestock producer, or a specialty crop grower, you can find benefit for your farm and bottom line. That could look like:

• Yield Increases
• Drought Resilience
• Nutrient Efficiency
  
• Animal Health
• Pasture Improvement
• Disease Suppression
• Higher Quality Produce
• reduced Irrigation Needs

How to Get Started

If you are interested in learning more or utilizing biochar on your farm, we are hear to help. 

• Join us at our annual conference and other events to learn more. 
• Email info@moaorganic.org to find partner with us 

We can't wait to work with you!