BBE Seminar: Biochar in Natural Lands Management

September 10, 3:30 PM - 4:30 PM

Ruttan Hall B25

A flyer for the 9/10 seminar with Todd Rexine and Brad Gordon from Great River Greening

Our fall seminar series kicks off Wednesday, September 10 from 3:30-4:30 PM!  
Join us for a seminar presented by presented by Todd Rexine & Brad Gordon from Great River Greening!

Title: Biochar in Natural Lands Management: Driving Industry Practice Change
Date: Wednesday, September 10, 2025
Time: 3:30-4:30 PM
Location: Ruttan Hall B25
*Snacks provided!

Biochar in Natural Lands Management: Driving Industry Practice Change
Minnesota’s habitat restoration projects often face challenges from tree and shrub encroachment by invasive species and a lack of ongoing management, producing significant quantities of waste wood. In recent years, the closure of biofuel plants that once processed this material led to a resurgence in on-site pile burning, which remains the cheapest but least environmentally friendly disposal method. Current markets for chips and logs have become saturated, further increasing the cost of other disposal options. 

Great River Greening (GRG) recognized the need for a better approach. Through its Biochar Initiative, GRG is transforming waste wood into a resource, reducing the negative impacts such as carbon imbalance and soil fire scars. By deploying biochar technologies-big box kilns, ring of fires, and Oregon kilns-GRG has introduced a viable, scalable alternative to traditional wood waste disposal methods. These methods improve the carbon balance of land management activities, but also create biochar to enhance soil health and support ongoing conservation efforts. 

Engaging land managers, fire professionals, service providers, agricultural producers, and private landowners, GRG’s initiative is driving a paradigm shift in natural lands management. By prioritizing biochar production, this effort demonstrates how innovative solutions can replace outdated practices, create valuable byproducts, and establish a sustainable framework for the biochar industry’s growth.

Event Speaker

Todd Rexine & Brad Gordon from Great River Greening

Todd Rexine, Great River Greening’s Conservation Director, holds a master's degree in Landscape Architecture from the University of Minnesota and has over 18 years of experience in planning, executing, and funding native habitat restoration projects across Minnesota. In his role at Great River Greening (GRG), Todd oversees conservation programs that focus on nature-based climate solutions and land restoration. He coordinates system-wide goals and analyzes interactions between natural and human systems, all while developing partnerships, implementing organizational procedures, and launching new initiatives. 
 
Over the past three years, Todd has led GRG’s Biochar Initiative, which focuses on creating a sustainable alternative to traditional wood waste disposal practices. By using on-site production methods—including big box kilns, ring of fires, and Oregon kilns—he has driven innovation in the biochar field. Todd actively collaborates with land managers, service providers, fire professionals, agricultural producers, and private landowners to shift the paradigm on wood waste management. His work not only reduces the environmental impact of pile burning but also establishes biochar as a valuable resource for soil health and public land conservation efforts. Todd also serves as a founding board member of the Minnesota Biochar Initiative, further contributing to the state’s leadership in sustainable land management practices. 
 
Brad Gordon has over a decade of experience in ecological restoration, regenerative agriculture, and sustainability. His core competencies lie in managing conservation projects for diverse ecosystems and advocating for sustainable practices in agriculture. At Great River Greening, his mission is to create a more sustainable environment for those who depend on it, leveraging his PhD in Water Resources Science to support the organization's vision. His role as Associate Conservation Director has centered around engaging with stakeholders, including farmers, to promote environmentally and economically sustainable practices. Utilizing skills in research, public speaking, and collaborative leadership, he leads initiatives that contribute to the restoration and preservation of vital habitats, ensuring projects align with both community needs and ecological integrity. Brad received his PhD from the U of M in Water Resources Science in 2019 and was housed in the BBE department studying wetland retention of agricultural nutrient runoff.