Join us for a free, hands-on biochar field day where you’ll learn simple, low-tech ways to make biochar and explore how it supports healthy soils by improving fertility, water retention, and beneficial microbial life.

We’ll be repurposing organic waste from the grounds of Rio Milagro Ranch to create biochar—an especially useful tool for folks in our area who have been impacted by recent fires and are working toward land and soil recovery. Whether you’re a gardener, farmer, or just curious about regenerative practices, this field day offers practical skills you can use right away.

Snacks and drinks will be provided, followed by a community potluck. Carpooling is strongly recommended due to the location and limited access to the site. Address will be sent out upon registering. Camping on the grounds is offered Saturday night. Registrants will need to contact Bart and myself before hand. 

Date: Sunday January 25, 2026 

Time: 11:00 AM - 4:00 PM

Location: Rio Milagro Farm Mimbres, NM (Exact Location will be sent out upon registration) 

General Agenda

11:00 – 11:30 AM | Introductions & overview of biochar processes

11:30 AM – 2:30 PM | Biochar production using simple, low-tech methods
(including trench and smothered pile techniques)

2:30 – 3:00 PM | Q&A and discussion

3:00 – 4:00 PM | Wrap-up, informal conversation, and light refreshments

Safety Notes

This workshop is weather dependent and may be rescheduled if conditions are not suitable for making biochar.

What to Wear

• Close-fitting clothing (fire-resistant if possible)

• Closed-toed shoes (boots recommended)

• Long hair tied back

This free field day is made possible thanks to the generous support of the McCune Charitable Foundation, Nusenda Foundation, and #NoRegrets.