Biochar research project attracts many partners

The Yukon Cold Climate Innovation Centre (YCCIC) of the Yukon Research Centre of Excellence (YRCE), has initiated a joint venture research project on a subject that is gaining international attention. This three-year study on biochar is being supported by seven different partners from Yukon, Canada and the United States. This study will investigate the soil enhancement affects of biochar on northern soils in the Yukon.

“This is the kind of project the Yukon Research Centre of Excellence was set up to facilitate and deliver to Yukoners”, said Yukon College president, Terry Weninger.

Biochar is a charcoal by-product that is created by heating wood at extremely high temperatures. The agricultural industry is interested in the possibility of using biochar to enhance production. The northern boreal forest has young soils that are generally low in carbon and major nutrients, creating a challenge for Yukon farmers. Biochar is predicted to help agricultural productivity in the Yukon. The creation of biochar can also be used for heating buildings and supplying energy to farms that are off grid.

On a recent tour to northern Europe, YRCE met with representatives from commercial, academic and government entities from across the EU. “Biochar is on the international radar of those studying alternative energy solutions and food security”, said vice-president, research, Dr. Chris Hawkins. “Yukon College is supporting research that has the potential to enhance soil fertility, agricultural productivity and food security in the North”, said Hawkins.

The majority of the funding for this project is coming from the Federal Agricultural Branch, with the Yukon Cold Climate Innovation Centre (YCCIC) providing the remaining financial support. The five other partners include: University of Alaska/Fairbanks; Yukon Agricultural Association; Energy, Mines and Resources, Yukon government; and two Yukon farmers, Warren Zakus and Steven MacKenzie-Grieve.