[Enviro-lunch] This Thursday 11/08: Dr. Costanza Zavalloni

[Jing Yan]

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Hello Everyone,
Please join us for a talk this Thursday. Nov. 08 by Dr. Costanza Zavalloni, 12-1pm in Room SE2-302.


Talk Title:
Biochar technology in developing Countries: experiments in rice and coffee plantations

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Abstract:
Biochar is a porous substance, similar to charcoal produced using pyrolysis, a thermochemical process where biomass is heated in the presence of limited or no oxygen. While energy and bio-oils obtained via pyrolysis can be utilized for several purposes, the char produced can be used as soil amendment. Biochar agronomical features will be discussed. Briefly, in addition to improving yields, biochar lessens water runoff and fertilizer leaching, and increases soil organic matter. The greatest positive effects of biochar is observed in acidic soils, which are typical of tropical and subtropical areas. In the research seminar results from agronomic experiments with rice will be discussed as well as the optimization of biochar systems in coffee production areas of Central America.

Bio:
Dr. Costanza Zavalloni is an Assistant Professor in Plant Science in the Agriculture Program at CSU, Stanislaus.  She received her Master in Agriculture Science from University of Bologna, Bologna, (Italy) and Ph.D. in Horticulture from Michigan State University, East Lansing, Michigan. During her Ph.D. she studied the nitrogen and water use efficiency of dwarfing sweet cherry trees.  Before joining CSU Stanislaus, Costanza was a post-doctorate at the Department of Plant and Vegetation ecology, University of Antwerpen, Belgium and after at the Department of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences, University of Udine, Italy. Her recent research interests include investigating the effects of biochar applications on soil microbial activity, N soil and plant relations and crop eco-physiology. Presently, her research includes studies on agronomical benefits of biochar as a substrate in soilless growing systems such as aquaponics, as well as the use of biochar in coffee plantations in Central America. At CSU, Stanislaus, she teaches several agricultural classes including Tree Fruit Production and Management, Sustainable Vegetable Production, Research Methods in Agriculture, and Integrated Pest Management.

When: Nov. 08, Thursday, 12pm - 1pm

Where: SE2-302

Coffee will be provided, please bring your own mugs.

We look forward to seeing you,

Nate & Jing

Organizers for Fall 2018: Nate Bogie and Jing Yan
Faculty coordinator: Asmeret Asefaw Berhe

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