Passive or Active Composting: Which is right for you?
When asked what’s keeping folks from starting to compost at home, one of the most common responses is that they lack the time to do it. Time is a precious resource in our modern lives, and living an environmentally-friendly lifestyle often takes extra effort. However, we at Solana Center always try to emphasize that there…
Read MoreBuild Better Soil and Improve Profitability with Regenerative Farming
Changing environmental regulations and increasing water costs are a challenge to the profit margins for San Diego farms and ranches. But current scientific research on regenerating soil health shows that carbon farming in addition to growing cash crops can be beneficial both economically and environmentally, including: Improving water retention Restoring degraded soil leading to better,…
Read More2019 Press
Sifting Compost: What a Fine Idea
Our fervent followers may have noticed and supported our recent trommel fundraising campaign for the Food Cycle program. Thanks to generous donations the trommel was fully funded and is now benefiting Food Cycle “tromm”endously. We are extraordinarily grateful. While our fundraising pitch explained that a trommel can expedite the composting process, we’d like to share…
Read MoreFrom the Rotline: Do red wigglers belong in my backyard compost bin?
Rotline Question: Should I put red wiggler worms in my backyard compost bin? Answer: This is a question that comes up often when folks visit our store to purchase composting worms, and we often have to urge folks not to add worms to their backyard bin. The reason lies in the fundamental differences between traditional…
Read MoreAll Five Applicants Provided with Technical Assistance by Solana Center Receive Funding Approval from State of California Healthy Soils Program
Funding to offset greenhouse gas emissions, prevent erosion and improve soil quality ENCINITAS – All five applicants who worked with Solana Center staff to create their proposals for the California Healthy Soils Program (HSP) have been awarded funding for farm improvement projects in San Diego County to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and enhance soil quality.…
Read MoreBenefits of a Mechanized Trommel
How will Solana Center’s mechanized trommel benefit you? Investing in a trommel has multiple benefits, but the primary purpose for acquiring this equipment is to accommodate the growth of the Food Cycle program and process compost faster. A trommel will: allow the Food Cycle program to grow, serving more local families, individuals and organizations; divert more food…
Read MoreVolunteer Spotlight: Mary Ann Stone
“The list of Mary Ann’s contributions to Solana Center is endless,” shared Executive Director Jessica Toth. “We all know that without her, the Center would not be here today and that the journey would not have been nearly as much fun! Most importantly, Mary Ann has been a steady sounding board for every aspect of…
Read MoreHealthy Soils Make Food and People Healthier
Healthy soils help make a healthy environment and nourishing food for our bodies. This winter, Solana Center worked with local farmers and ranchers to discuss the state’s Healthy Soils Program, strategize ways to implement best management practices, and improve productivity. According to the Farm Bureau, San Diego County has more small farms than any other county in the US…
Read More5 Simple Ways to Celebrate Earth Day
Looking for some simple ways to make a difference this Earth Day? We’ve got you covered. At Solana Center for Environmental Innovation, we believe you can do something to help the environment no matter who you are. Even small, practical steps in the right direction – though they might feel insignificant in the moment –…
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