Lautenbach Recycling subsidiary offers biochar-blended compost

Skagit Soils Inc., a composting facility in Mount Vernon, Washington, that is part of the Lautenbach Recycling family of companies, has begun offering biochar-enhanced compost.

“This innovative soil amendment, developed in collaboration with the [Bellingham, Washington-based] Kulshan Carbon Trust (KCT), promises to revolutionize sustainable agriculture and gardening in the region," the company says.

Biochar is an end product most often derived from the pyrolysis process when it is applied to organic materials including scrap wood, manure, leaves and other green waste, plus some industrial byproducts.

Skagit Soils, which describes itself as a "cornerstone" of the local agricultural community, providing high-quality soils and mulches, says its biochar-infused compost can improve soil health, enhance water retention and boost soil fertility.

“We are thrilled to partner with KCT on this groundbreaking project,” Skagit Soils CEO Craig Culmback says. “Our biochar-enhanced compost not only supports healthier plant growth but also contributes to long-term soil health and carbon sequestration. This product is a testament to our commitment to innovation and environmental stewardship.”

KCT has agreed to provide regional growers with the Skagit Soils biochar-enhanced compost for applications in field trials. The trials have been designed to understand and document the benefits of biochar in different agricultural settings.

The KCT organization, which operates from and works with tribal groups, works with people in northwest Washington to design, develop, and implement tailored natural climate solutions by connecting local knowledge, technical and practical assistance and financial markets.

By integrating biochar with compost, the biochar-enhanced compost initiative aims to create a desirable soil amendment that supports sustainable farming practices and enhances crop productivity, according to KCT and Skagit Soils.

KCT credits the Gig Harbor, Washington-based Russell Family Foundation for helping it engage with growers such as Viva Farms, Burlington, Washington, and Puget Sound Food Hub Cooperative, based in Mount Vernon, as well as reaching out to other food producers.

“We believe in the transformative potential of biochar-enhanced compost,” says Jessa Clark, program director at KCT. “By working with Skagit Soils and engaging a diverse network of dedicated growers, we aim to demonstrate the potential of biochar to revitalize both small and large agricultural operations, regenerate the landscape and build community climate resilience."

Skagit Soils's biochar-enhanced compost is now available to consumers and farmers alike for applications in home gardens or agricultural fields.