The Institute expects to hold the first course in the autumn of 1996. The CUT is a long-term field trial comparing several different compost mixtures to each other as well as to more conventional fertilizers. The Rodale Institute scientists who have been running the CUT since 1991, are testing whether the use of compost over conventional fertilizers or raw farmyard manures will lead to reduced nutrient loss and groundwater pollution. Offering all-weather access and appropriate environmental protection, the Institute hopes the Composting Research and Education Center will be used by the Department of Environmental Protection, the Conservation District, the Conservation Service, and others to study the economic and environmental impacts of increased compost use. AARC supports private individuals or companies in bridging the gap between research results and commercialization of that research, thereby complementing the USDA's research agencies.
Preference is given to projects that are environmentally friendly and benefit rural communities.
According to Haberern, the purpose of this facility is congruent with the ongoing goals of Rodale Institute. We want to education people all over the world about the importance of protection and improving our soil. Soil not only provides a growing medium, it also influences the water we drink and even the air we breathe. Iron in groundwater is often dissolved and remains dissolved as long as the water is held at groundwater temperature, pH, and pressure. It is this ferric form of iron that can physically clog emitters.