Nanaimo Biochar Workshop Nov 21

Hands-On Introduction to Biochar: How to make it, the Science behind it, How it improves Soil Health & the Climate

What if we could transform locally available woody biomass and other organic residues into a valuable resource that dramatically improves soil health and helps store carbon for the long term?

This introductory workshop brings together practical exploration and accessible science through presentations and hands on manufacturing of the the material. No previous experience with biochar or soil science is necessary!

Learn about the many ways it can contribute to soil health in forests, farms and garden all while supporting our atmosphere through sustainable carbon storage.

Your Hosts

Michael Geselbracht - Nanaimo Biochar InitiativeMichael has been passionate about making biochar in his backyard for almost a decade now. He has a background in sustainable rural and urban farming, a BSc in Food Systems.

Sponsored by Pulling To Gather Eco Art Project | Art Action Earwig, Nanaimo Forest School and SEED Neighborhood Cooperative >> pullingtogather.space

What You'll Learn

The science of biochar: How heating biomass in a low-oxygen environment transforms organic material into a carbon-rich, porous substance.

Carbon sequestration: Why biochar can keep some carbon out of the atmosphere for decades to centuries or longer, depending on its properties and conditions.

Soil health: How biochar can influence water retention, nutrient availability, soil structure, and microbial communities.

Feedstocks and production: Why the original material and production conditions influence the final biochar.

Practical applications: How biochar might support food forests, gardens, tree planting, and ecological restoration projects.

Local opportunities: How Nanaimo could make productive use of suitable local biomass while building community knowledge and climate resilience.

What You Will Walk away with…

uncharged BIOCHAR

knowledge on how to make your own

knowledge on how to make a Biochar TLUD Kiln (we will make one onsite!)

Hands-On Activities

You will have opportunities to:

Examine and handle biochar samples, observing their texture, structure, and porosity.

Manufacture Biochar using 2-3 different small scale methods

Explore how biochar interacts with water and consider what this means for soil moisture.

Compare biochar with compost and other organic soil amendments, discussing their different roles.

Investigate how biochar can be combined with compost and other nutrient sources before being incorporated into soil.

Discuss possible pilot projects and applications for biochar in Nanaimo's community gardens, food forests, and restoration sites.

Why Biochar Matters in Nanaimo

Nanaimo and the surrounding region have a range of potential applications for biochar, from improving selected urban soils to to use in industrial processes.

Biochar is not a universal solution, and its benefits depend on the material, the soil, and how it is used. The workshop will explore both its promise and its limitations, encouraging practical experimentation, careful observation, and evidence-informed decision-making.

Who Should Attend?

Gardeners, Climate activists, city staff, restoration volunteers, food forest stewards, farmers, environmental educators, community organizers, students, forestry workers,

…and anyone interested in soil health, carbon storage, and practical climate solutions are welcome.

Come Explore the Possibilities

The Nanaimo Biochar Initiative is bringing people together to explore how biochar technology soon contribute to a more resilient, regenerative, and climate-conscious region.

Costs

Suggested donation sliding scale $10–$40, no one turned away for lack of funds!Funds go to Pulling To Gather's 2027/2028 Eco-Restoration Fund E-Transfers go to [email protected] payments can be made the day of the event.

Join us to learn the science, get hands-on with the material, and help explore what biochar could mean for Nanaimo.