Grant: Applied Research and Development Grants - Level 1

The use of biochar to inject nutrients and reduce soil acidity is a frequent practice in Europe, most notably inScandinavian countries (Brunner et al., 2004). Biochar is a type of charcoal that can be applied to promoteplant growth by enhancing or retaining soil nutrients (Lehmann, Gaunt, & Rondon, 2006). In Greater Sudbury,previous mining activities such as ore roasting beds and smelters has had a noticeable impact on the acidity andnutrients in its soil, particularly in locations nearest to the activity. In 2009, the results of a soil study showedthat most test soils had been moderately and severely impacted. The impact included poor fertility, low nutrientbalance, and limited capacity for water retention. Interestingly, test soils that were treated with a liming agentdesigned to augment the levels of pH within the soil contained lower levels of toxicity and metals. Theenvironmental impact has led to several re-greening initiatives but none have included the use of biochar.Biochar is created when biomass is heated at high temperatures in the absence of oxygen, a process known aspyrolysis. The biomass and pyrolysis equipment is highly expensive rendering it unfeasible to produce biochar.However, one local company uses wooden biomass to heat and provide electricity for their mill. The remainsare wooden ash, which, if applied to soil, is a form of biochar. However, the company currently deposits theash at landfill sites creating a 'wasted' opportunity. The general objective within the present investigation is todetermine the efficacy of readily-available biochar from one forestry company on foliage and soil found inGreater Sudbury.