CharPalooza! Biochar Demonstration

Tooele, Utah

On April 19, 2023, three types of biochar production were demonstrated for the public at the Tooele County Landfill.  The demonstration was part of a week-long study at the landfill. Researchers from the USDA Forest Service Fire Lab’s emissions testing team set up emissions detectors right next to the kilns to measure how “clean” the burns were. If biochar production is found to have low emissions, future air quality policies may include lower restrictions for kiln burning. 

Kelpie Wilson demonstrated her Ring of Fire kiln, which is made of panels that can be disassembled for easy transportation.

Darren McAvoy demonstrated the Utah Biomass Resource Group’s Big Box kiln, which is loaded and tipped with a mini-excavator or similar machine. 

Debbie Page-Dumroese demonstrated the Air Burners Inc. CharBoss, a mechanical burner on a trailer with an air curtain to keep smoke inside and a conveyor belt to continuously expel biochar. 

Salt Lake Tribune journalist Tim Fitzpatrick attended the event and wrote an opinion piece describing the event. That article can be found at https://www.sltrib.com/renewable-energy/2023/04/20/is-turning-forest-waste-into-black/  

USU TODAY released a video and statement after the event, titled Black is the New Green: Exploring Biochar's Potential to Moderate Wildfire, Store Carbon. The video and article can be found at https://www.usu.edu/today/story/black-is-the-new-green-exploring-biochars-potential-to-moderate-wildfire-store-carbon