Summary!

Summary:

Exploring Compost:

Specifically, to develop a more efficient composting system for Solebury School. We will be experimenting with the Bokashi composting method, both with a starter kit and with our own EM culture.

Resources thus far:

·         William Collier *

·         Jon Freer *

·         http://www.bokashicycle.com/

·         http://www.wildlifegardeners.org/forum/fertilizing-soil-amendments/1292-extreme-bokashi-make-your-own-innoculant.html

·         http://www.teraganix.com/EM-Bokashi-Recipe-s/262.htm

·         http://www.hawaiihealingtree.org/?p=163

Specific goals:

1.      To understand the biology of both anaerobic and aerobic compost

2.      To find out if Bokashi is right for Solebury

3.      Possibly, to create a more organized and usable (if not entirely altered) compost system at Solebury

Background science so far:

Accelerated natural decomposition of food by effective microorganisms (EM) through anaerobic fermentation. Following fermentation, exposure to aerobic bacteria changes CO₂  into nitrates beneficial to the soil. 

What’s next?

·         Purchase culture and materials necessary

·         Start fermentation process

·         Write proposal for digging on campus (and present to Tom)

·         (Make our own culture)


*photographs by Alex Keller