MOSS LANDING — A partnership on California’s Central Coast is turning invasive eucalyptus trees into biochar, a carbon-rich soil amendment researchers say could improve farm productivity while reducing wildfire risk and helping fight climate change.
The Elkhorn Slough Foundation is producing biochar from eucalyptus trees removed during habitat restoration work around Elkhorn Slough, one of the state’s largest wetlands. Soil scientist Arun Jani of California State University Monterey Bay is studying how the material affects soil health, water retention and crop yields at a nearby organic farm.
Biochar is a charcoal-like substance made by heating organic material at high temperatures with little oxygen, a process known as pyrolysis. When added to soil, it can improve water and nutrient retention, increase fertility and store carbon long term. Because the carbon is highly stable, it can remain in the soil for thousands of years rather than entering the atmosphere.
“In a region with declining groundwater and wetland pollution from farming, the use of biochar could address resource constraints that threaten the base of our economy and ecology,” Jani said.
The biochar is being produced at the foundation’s Brothers Ranch by Ventana Forestry using a large mobile kiln known as a Carbonator. The system converts wood waste into biochar while minimizing smoke and emissions, according to the company.
“For centuries, Indigenous people used cultural fire to maintain healthy forests,” said Tom Little Bear Nason of Ventana Forestry. “Much of today’s landscape has gone generations without beneficial burning, leaving an overload of woody material and non-native trees. This technology allows us to transform that excess biomass into a valuable resource.”
The work is supported by a $1.77 million grant from CAL FIRE, which funded the removal of fire-prone eucalyptus trees near the community of Las Lomas. The project is intended to reduce wildfire risk while restoring native habitat and protecting watersheds.
“Ecological restoration and wildfire prevention efforts go hand in hand,” said Tim Montgomery of CAL FIRE. “This project is creating a more wildfire-resilient landscape, improving habitat and increasing public safety.”
Jani said he was inspired by successful use of eucalyptus-based biochar in South Africa. His current study, now in its second year, is the first field research in the United States focused specifically on biochar made from eucalyptus. Initial funding came from the California State University Agriculture Research Institute.
The foundation and Ventana Forestry previously produced biochar together in 2023 at the Elkhorn Highlands Reserve, converting about 8,000 tons of eucalyptus logs into roughly 200 tons of biochar. That material is now being used in Jani’s research.
Biochar production at Brothers Ranch is expected to continue through mid-March.
TOP IMAGE: The Carbonator at work at Brothers Ranch. • Photo Credit: Ken Collins