Using compost to improve nitrogen use efficiency and productivity of Almonds

In collaboration with the Almond Board of Australia and commercial almond producers, this project seeks to characterise the value of organic waste streams and traditional soil amendment products using industrial scale, proof of concept processing and soil incorporation equipment.  The Australian almond industry has a strong interest in a closed-loop production system whereby composted or pyrolyzed waste from almond processing (predominantly hulls and shells) and other organic matter is used as a soil amendment.  Some of the largest producers are already pursuing this goal by developing pilot and commercial scale composting, pyrolysis and injection technologies. This is driven by the desire to better utilise a waste stream, improve soil fertility and productivity and potentially qualify for carbon credits. The sustained application of organic matter can replace some synthetic nitrogen applications, improve soil fertility and orchard productivity, reduce the likelihood of leaching and increase soil carbon content. The aim of this project is to assess existing commercial and research trials to quantify the magnitude of these co-benefits in addition to the increases in soil stored carbon. This information will be used to encourage further development of these innovative practices by the Australian almond industry, and support their use by other horticultural industries such as citrus and viticulture.