Nebraska Field Day Shows Biochar Benefits for Soil Health

By Scout Nelson

Researchers in Nebraska are turning an invasive problem into an opportunity by studying how eastern redcedar can be converted into biochar. Biochar is a carbon-rich material made through heating organic matter in low-oxygen conditions. It can be used to improve soils, filter pollutants, and even strengthen construction materials like concrete.

Michael Kaiser, associate professor of agronomy and horticulture at the University of Nebraska – Lincoln, explains that biochar enhances water and nutrient retention, increases soil carbon, and supports long-term crop productivity. “All these agronomic benefits are relevant for sustainable corn-soybean systems,” he said.

Eastern redcedar is spreading quickly across Nebraska, reducing forage for livestock, threatening native grasslands, and increasing wildfire risks. By converting removed redcedar into biochar, landowners can address this challenge while creating a valuable resource.

To promote education and collaboration, the Nebraska Biochar Initiative was launched in 2024. It supports biochar education, industry partnerships, and new production facilities across the state. Building on this momentum, a biochar field day will be held from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Sept. 22 near Seward, Nebraska.

The event is hosted by the Nebraska Forest Service and Blue Heron Tiospaye, a nonprofit dedicated to ecological and cultural preservation. Partners include the Department of Agronomy and Horticulture, the Nebraska Center for Energy Sciences Research, and the Nebraska Biochar Initiative.

During the event, experts will demonstrate how to produce biochar on-site using an Oregon Kiln. Participants will learn how biochar reduces odors, filters pollutants, improves soils, and supports urban and rural farming.

Attendees are encouraged to bring gloves, boots, water, and a 5-gallon bucket. A light lunch will be provided. Kaiser calls the field day “a great opportunity to engage with the community about biochar’s benefits and bring stakeholders together.”

Registration is available at https://go.unl.edu/biochar-fd.

Photo Credit: pexels-jan-kroon