A delegation consisting of Dr. W.J. McPhee, Project Field Manager, Tree Fruit Pathologist, and Oliver orchardist Greg Norton spoke to the Environment and Infrastructure Committee of the regional district on April 5.
The delegation wished to discuss the topic of compost utilization for treatment of crop roots. They also sought funding in the amount of $15,000 in order to continue their studies.
Norton told the committee that his group of eight growers had acquired volumes of data about composting, The delegation’s approach to the board also included a request for policy or support to redirect organic waste from the landfill to agricultural use.
“We’re looking for security in supply,” Norton adding, “this material is combustable and is better off (landfill) site.”
Norton made a distinction between organic and bio waste, recognizing the value of both but noting that contamination issues with bio waste made it difficult to compost.
Dr. McPhee explained the group’s program to the board, outlining two aspects of it:
- composting, supply and efficacy.
- an agricultural segment dealing with replant and decline of the plant.
“We have found that compost has a significant impact on the roots and overall health of plants,” McPhee explained.
McPhee added that there were problems with the compost supply chain that made it difficult for agriculture to get compost from yard and wood waste contained in landfills.
“How to ‘drag’ compost through to agriculture. That’s why we’re here,” McPhee said.
The group’s studies concluded that the biggest problem in the local fruit industry is not feeding the tree roots. They concluded that there could be significant increase in local production through better root management.
“We can stimulate roots with phosphorus, but it’s not sustainable because of the introduction of pathogens and nematodes,” McPhee said. “By using compost, we can rid ourselves of commercial fertilizers.”
“We want compost to become part of the culture of growing grapes and other agricultural products in the valley,” added Norton. McPhee added that adding bio waste limited compost use, making standardization in the process of compost making essential.
Penticton Director Gary Litke responded that the board was currently dealing with other issues related to compost at present.
RDOS Solid Waste Facilities Coordinator Don Hamilton said that there was 10,000 metric tonnes of wood and yard waste at the landfill with no commitment for use as yet, adding that it was material that was traditionally hard to get rid of.
The board discussed the appropriateness of dedicating this component of waste to the agricultural industry before agreeing to refer the matter to administration to explore further, prior to bringing it back to the board.