The Biochar Handbook

In The Biochar Handbook, author Kelpie Wilson argues that the simple process of burning organic material in a low-oxygen, low-emission environment could be one of the most powerful tools we have to restore degraded soils and reduce our dependence on fossil fuels. In accessible and authoritative prose, Wilson demonstrates that biochar is a low-tech but effective means of reducing wildfire risks, restoring soil carbon, managing manure, weaning farms off of toxic inputs, and producing the best compost ever made. In this book, you’ll also find: - A pocket history of biochar - Step-by-step instructions on making biochar for yourself - Applications for soil water retention, pest deterrence, compost enhancement, and more - Inspiring examples of ecosystem restoration and improved forest management - Low-cost recipes, including Cultured Biochar and Sustainable Potting Soil Wilson makes a compelling case that biochar is both simple to make and a potent solution to a host of knotty problems, both global and close to home. Whether you’re a gardener, homesteader, rancher, commercial farmer, permaculturalist, or forest manager, this book will show you how to put biochar to work, making you and your community more resilient as a result.