Future: Become a Replicable Model and Resource for Local Farmers
The goal is to create a replicable model that local farmers can adopt and provide food producers with a how-to for creating a vermicast system and share best practices.
2020/2021: Hosted Site Visits for Community Leaders
This demonstration project is increasing regional knowledge of carbon farming and soil health for the public and the agricultural community. Restoration Oaks has hosted several field days, site visits and developed accessible documentation and materials for local farmers and ranchers.
2019-2021: Collected Soil Data and Published Results to Date
In partnership with research partners, they developed a baseline soil assessment and ongoing monitoring plan. They are studying the nutrient load, the pathogen load and the biological activity of the vermicast as well as conducting soil tests and monitoring plant…
Invested in Two More Worm Bins, a Compost Tea Brewer, and Scaled Up
Began scaling up the production of vermicast to layer onto the top soil. Purchased a compost tea brewer to oxygenate the vermicast onsite and apply it via drip to the land. Restoration Oaks receives food scraps from New Frontiers Market…
Launched Pilot Project and Built Partnerships
Secured a grant from Gaviota Coast Conservancy to start researching the application of the vermicast on the Blueberry Farm. The Wild Farmlands Foundation launches their pilot program to develop a production vermicast (vermicompost) system on Restoration Oaks Ranch to document…
Became interested in organic composting and worms
After learning about Vermicast, Ed Seaman was inspired to set up a worm farm on-site at Restoration Oaks Ranch. Purchased first worm bin to begin creating natural, organic matter for the soils.
Launched Healthy Soils Project
Restoration Oaks Ranch was one of the first 99 farms to receive a healthy soils incentive from the state of California. During this project they set up a tree planting on the property and layered compost on a 20 acre…