Researchers Chosen for New Research Project

The CREF Board of Trustees has chosen researchers from the University of Minnesota to do its latest research project, “A Review and Analysis of Compost Used in Stormwater Bioretention Systems.”  The group from the university, led by Andy Erickson, PhD, PE, will be doing a review of the current research literature identifying what has been accomplished, specific gaps, and ultimately research needs to accurately answer important question regarding compost used in stormwater bioretention systems.
 
This project was chosen because for over 20 years, regulators have acknowledged benefits but also have had concerns with nutrients leaching from compost when used in green infrastructure projects, notably bioretention. This is a significant barrier to compost use by states, counties, and cities.  The goal of this project is to help increase bioretention performance and confidence from specifiers and end-users, minimize pollution potential, and ultimately increase acceptance and use of compost in this critical green infrastructure stormwater best management practice (BMP). When completed, CREF will make the research paper available to the public. 
 
Past projects are available on the CREF website.  This project is made possible due to the generous donations received by many individuals and companies.