A299ACF13A8E5CA58725847100583662 Hearing Summary

Bob Yost, A1 Organics, presented to the committee on composting. He discussed that one of the benefits of composting is retaining moisture in soil. He outlined the differences between commercial composting and agriculture composting, which includes regulation by the Department of Public Health and Environment versus the Department of Agriculture. He stated that commercial composting includes residential composting and production waste. He outlined the materials composted through agricultural composting.

Dan Matsch, Eco-Cycle, discussed the Marin Carbon Project and market development for compost.

Mr. Yost discussed collaborative efforts in composting and healthy soil. He spoke about the costs and benefits of using composting in agriculture.

Mr. Yost answered questions from the committee about state taxes related to fertilizer versus compost. Mr. Matsch discussed providing incentive to farmers for sequestering carbon. Committee discussion with Mr. Yost ensued about farming related to composting and carbon sequestration. Mr. Yost responded to committee comments about possible changes to the tax code related to compost and fertilizer.