Workshop topics will include soil foodweb principles, soil organism identification, how to make aerobic compost/humus to enhance soil life, making and applying biological extracts and teas, and case studies in improving soil ecosystems.

Registration for the workshop is $65 (which includes lunch) prior to March 31. After that date, the cost is $95. The event will conclude with an optional wine and cheese reception for an additional $10. The workshop is being presented with the generous support from the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Sustainable Agriculture Research and Education Program and the Harold J. Miossi Charitable Trust, as part of the Cal Poly Center for Sustainability’s soil health initiatives.

Registration details and more information about the “Healthy Foodweb, Healthy Soils” workshop is available at www.cfs.calpoly.edu/soilfoodweb.html. In addition, the American Society of Agronomy has approved the course to provide six continuing education units for Certified Crop Advisors (four soil and water management and two nutrient management units).

Elaine Ingham pioneered the soil foodweb concept, underlying the relationship between soil biodiversity and plant productivity. Her user-friendly approach to ensuring healthy soils is grounded in years of research and applicable to a wide range of farming and gardening settings.

Ingham demonstrates that enhancement of soil biology leads to improved nutrient cycling, reduced water use, reduced weed populations, and reduced need for chemical inputs while improving plant production and nutrition.