Biochar has been successfully used in viticulture to boost productivity through improved plant and soil health without negative effects to the grape or wine flavor. There is a large body of research supporting the application of biochar in viticulture specifically, as well as in soils and compost. A dozen of the most recent and relevant are highlighted in support of biochar’s use in viticulture. While there are some caveats to be considered when applying biochar, if it’s matched appropriately to the soils at establishment, growers are seeing a 2 to 3 harvest payback.

The growing need for improved water management is one of the prime benefits seen in vineyards, and that need is expected to intensify as a changing climate affects water availability further. An additional benefit to an investment in biochar is its longevity—measured in decades to millennia—which also opens the potential for economic benefit from the developing carbon credit markets.

For over 20-years, the concept of Payments for Ecosystem Services (PES) has been evolving. During this time, an enhanced understanding of supporting sciences, potential frameworks, and protocol methods has emerged and continues to improve. The Georgia Forestry Foundation (GFF) invested in this work to broaden the understanding of PES programs, identify potential opportunities, and to increase engagement with private forest landowners. It provides a context for developing a PES program addressing forests and water in the state of Georgia, and potentially other areas located in the Southeastern United States. This work builds upon previous research in Georgia that explored and quantified ecosystem services and market opportunities.