Project Lead Dr. Shannon Spier shares the science and goals behind Project BEACON with attendees at the Brush Creek kickoff dinner
The Project BEACON (Biochar Evaluation Across Catchments for Outreach and Nutrient Management) initiative officially launched on Thursday, June 11th, with an informational kickoff dinner at the Cafe at the Farmers Regional Sale Barn in Hindsville. The evening brought together local farmers, area landowners, and conservation partners for a shared meal and an introduction to this innovative research project.
This cooperative project aims to support producers and operations in the Brush Creek watershed area while improving soil and watershed health. In partnership with the Spier Lab at the University of Arkansas (Project Lead), Arkansas Discovery Farms, the Arkansas Water Resources Center, and the Carbon Chicken Project, this initiative evaluates biochar-amended poultry litter as an innovative solution to reduce nutrient runoff. By linking on-farm conservation practices to nearly three years of baseline water quality data, the project aims to provide measurable evidence of improvements in downstream water quality.
Attendees at the kickoff dinner learned about the core science behind biochar application, saw how easily it integrates into existing farming operations, and discussed the real-world, long-term benefits it brings to both soil productivity and water quality.
Local producer, Jeff Marley shares his personal experience and perspective with fellow agricultural producers at the Project BEACON kickoff
Participate in the Fully Funded Pilot Study
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Click Here to Download Project Beacon Flyer PDF
If you were unable to attend the kickoff dinner but are interested in the economic and environmental benefits of biochar, there is still time to get involved. The Alliance is actively recruiting agricultural producers within the Brush Creek watershed to participate in our 2026–2028 pilot study.
This study is fully funded, offering a unique opportunity for local producers to implement and track these soil-health practices on their operations with direct support from the Alliance team.
To learn more about project eligibility, benefits to your land, or to sign up, please reach out:
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Project Contact: Eric Cummings, Agricultural Watershed Specialist
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Phone: 479-871-9365
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Email: eric@beaverwatershedalliance.org
