Biochar is a fine-grained charcoal left behind after pyrolysis of crop residues, livestock manures, or other organic materials.  Pyrolysis is the high-temperature processing of organic materials in the absence of oxygen.

Biochar is used in multiple applications, including as a soil amendment and in sewage and wastewater treatment.  Researchers have found that biochar applied to wet soils can decrease the production of methane and nitrous oxide.  Other research has shown that biochar can be useful for restoring degraded soils because of its ability to bind to heavy metals.

State agencies and local governments must consider whether biochar products can be used when planning government-funded projects or soliciting and reviewing bids for such projects.  Biochar means a carbon-rich material produced during the pyrolysis process.  If biochar products can be used in the project, a state agency or local government must use biochar products unless:

• biochar is not available within a reasonable period of time;
• biochar products that are available do not comply with existing purchasing standards;
• biochar products that are available do not comply with federal or state health, quality, and safety standards; or
• biochar purchase prices are not reasonable or competitive.

A state agency is not required to use biochar products if:

• application of biochar will have detrimental impacts on the physical characteristics and nutrient condition of the soil as it is used for a specific crop; or
• the project consists of growing trees in a greenhouse setting, including seed orchard greenhouses.