Archive for February, 2010

Episode #80: The National Renewable Ammonia Architecture

Monday, February 22nd, 2010

In this episode of the podcast I am joined by Neal Rauhauser, a blogger and researcher whose work can be found on the website strandedwind.org. Neal is also the author of the National Renewable Ammonia Architecture, a 6,500 word background paper that covers the history of human fertilizer production.

In this interview Neal and I discuss the concept of stranded wind, the past, current, and future status of ammonia as a fertilizer, and the potential to produce ammonia renewably using hydroelectric. Neal brings us up to speed on a proposal to reinvigorate local economies where hydroelectric facilities already exist through ammonia/grain/ethanol/greenhouse horticulture production.

Useful links below:

Strandedwind

The National Renewable Ammonia Architecture

The Ammonia Fuel Network

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Episode #79: The Black Soldier Fly (Part II)

Monday, February 15th, 2010

In the second part of my interview with Jerry from blacksoldierflyblog.com, we discuss use of BSF for decomposing manures, including human manure, the quality and volume of compost produced, fly larva as the primary product of BSF composting, biological racism against the Black Soldier Fly, and BSF with California Red Worms.

I also read some listener email and comments.  Useful links below:

Black Soldier Fly Blog

BioPod and Black Soldier Fly Community Forum

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Episode #78: The Black Soldier Fly (Part I)

Monday, February 8th, 2010

The Black Soldier Fly (Hermetia ilucens) has many remarkable characteristics that make it useful to human beings.  In this episode, I am joined by Jerry of blacksoldierflyblog.com.  Jerry and I discuss the lifecycle, morphological characteristics, and population dynamics of the Black Soldier Fly.  We also discuss strategies for attracting and managing a healthy colony.  This is Part I in a two part series.

Useful links below:

Blacksoldierfly Blog

Phoenix Worms (via Google)

Wikipedia article

Purchase a Biopod

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Episode #77: CREAR with Mark Feedman

Monday, February 1st, 2010

Mark Feedman is the founder of CREAR, the Regional Center for the Study of Rural Alternatives, a small agricultural school located in the northern mountains of the Dominican Republic, near the Haitian border. Feedman has been an tireless advocate of sustainable agriculture for 40 years, and in this interview he recounts his struggle to create an educational center in the remote forests of Hispaniola. Topics include rural education, the future of Haiti, and the subject of hope.

CREAR (via Agroinnovations)

CREAR Slide Show (via Agroinnovations)

FAO Soils Bulletin 60

Live Learning Visits CREAR

Dominican Community Gardens: CREAR

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