The Sonoma Biochar Initiative, a project of the Sonoma Ecology Center, in cooperation with the Mendocino Biochar Demonstration Project, is offering two separate workshops in Mendocino County on Friday April 11th. Both workshops feature Peter Hirst, a nationally known biochar expert and trainer, co-owner of New England Biochar, and farm manager at Swallow Valley Farm.

The morning workshop (8 A.M. – 11:30 A.M.), to be held in the Chenin Blanc Room at the Ukiah Conference Center, 200 S. School Street, Ukiah, focuses on biochar, including how it works to improve soil, its many benefits, how to properly condition it prior to use, and how to apply it.

The afternoon workshop (1 P.M. – 5 P.M.), will be held at the Ingel-Haven Ranch, 9000 Westside Potter Valley Rd., and will feature hands-on, in-the-field training for the conservation burn technique, including the scientific theory behind the process, safety and permitting considerations, pile construction, burn management, and maximizing production of biochar.

Workshop fees are $35 per session, or $60 for the whole day. We only have room for 36 people so be sure and pre-register using the link below. A portion of the proceeds will support programs at both the Sonoma Biochar Initiative and the Sonoma Ecology Center.

For more information and to register, click here.