Improving Vegetation Establishment and Erosion Control with Compost-Based Specifications

A series of four workshops were held across the state to introduce CIWMB and Caltrans invite you to attend this year's informational workshops. CIWMB, in partnership with the Caltrans Headquarters Landscape Architecture Program, recently developed new compost use specifications to district designers including landscape architects, biologists, and storm water quality coordinators. These workshops provided designers with the opportunity to comment, suggest revisions, and ask compost and water quality-related questions of a diverse team of experts.

These workshops featured practical tools and information on using compost for erosion control and revegetation. In addition, the publication Compost Use for Landscape and Environmental Enhancement was provided to workshop participants.

• Workshop Content
• Participants
• Workshop Agenda and Presentations

Content

Topics covered included:

• The characteristics and uses of mulches, soil amendments, and organic fertilizers.
• The benefits of compost for roadside applications, including reduced runoff, improved infiltration, improved erosion control, and filtration.
• The U.S. Composting Council's Seal of Testing Assurance Program, the national compost quality and labeling program.
• Using compost to reduce erosion and improve the establishment of roadside vegetation.
• Innovative Caltrans projects, pros and cons of different types of applications, and lessons learned.
• Panel discussion on using compost and mulch on roadside applications.

Participants

CIWMB sought participation from a wide range of stakeholders including:

• University professionals
• Researchers
• Soil scientists
• California compost industry professionals
• Landscape architects
• Caltrans representatives
• State Water Resources Control Board

Questions? Contact the person listed at the bottom of this page.

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