Biochar & Soil Carbon

Soil is a fascinating interconnected system, driven by the sun, mediated by plants, and integral to our climate. Join instructor Dale Hendricks for an educational workshop on a unique soil building method- biochar. Learn the process of capturing carbon in a carbon deficient environment through burning wood scraps and using them to aid in moisture and nutrient retention in the soil.

This class will explore answers to questions like:

• What is Biochar?
• How can farmers, gardeners, and permaculturists most productively engage with their soil?
• What is the “Liquid-Carbon Pathway”?
• What role does a diverse perennial plant system play in building carbon in our soil?

Included in the class is a live demonstration of how biochar is made! The instructor will demystify the process by showcasing a variety of methods to achieve this goal. He will begin by firing up a small clean-burning, biochar making cookstove to demonstrate the process and then move on to a larger, “open burn” technique with wood outside on the farm.

About the Instructor

Dale Hendricks has been growing and propagating plants professionally since 1975 when he was fortunate to gain employment at Green Leaf Enterprises in Lancaster County, Pa. In 1988 he co-founded North Creek Nurseries, Inc along with current owner Steve Castorani in order to propagate and grow perennials and grasses with an emphasis on natives and garden selections of natives. In 2009 he founded Green Light Plants, LLC. To build carbon friendly and regenerative landscapes; growing native, woodland and permaculture plants, organically and joyfully. Since ’88 he has lived in Landenberg, southern Chester County, Pa with his family where he gardens, propagates plants, and grows good soil. 

Health and Safety

*The Horn Farm Center is offering on-site educational programming with some modifications due to COVID-19. Multiple hand sanitizer stations are available. We will adjust as needed as time passes and things change. In order to ensure the health and safety of our visitors, volunteers and staff, the Horn Farm Center is following current CDC Guidelines. Please contact us at info@hornfarmcenter.org for questions or concerns.

*Parking is along the field above the farmhouse.

*All programs are subject to change based on unforeseen circumstances including inclement weather. Participants will receive an email and phone call if there are any program changes or cancellations. Thank you for supporting regenerative farming and educational programs at the Horn Farm Center.