Join SCS at the 2024 MRN/SWANA Mid-Atlantic Annual Conference, hosted by the Maryland Recycling Network (MRN) and the SWANA Mid-Atlantic Chapter at the Turf Valley Conference Center in Ellicott City, Maryland. This year’s conference features legislative updates from the Maryland Department of the Environment (MDE), live learning and networking opportunities for industry professionals, and engaging topics on innovative recycling methods, public outreach strategies, and food waste collection. Attendees will enjoy a crab feast and barbeque closing dinner.
SCS is proud to be a sponsor and exhibitor for the MRN/SWANA Mid-Atlantic Annual Conference, bringing together leaders and organizations across the solid waste and recycling industries.
SCS Experts are excited to present on the following topics this year.
Strategies for Measuring and Reducing Emissions to Comply with Current and Potential Future Regulations
Presenters: Josh Roth, PE, Vice President and Project Director, Landfill Gas (LFG) Group and Helen Steffens, EIT
SWANA members can earn CEUs by attending this event. Register today!
This blog summarizes USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) Code 336, which addresses Soil Carbon Amendments as a Conservation Practice Standard, part of the USDA Environmental Quality Incentives Program (EQIP), which provides monetary incentives to improve, among other things, soil quality. Soil carbon amendments include compost, biochar, and other carbon-based materials.
The program is potentially beneficial to compost and biochar facilities (public or private) as the USDA payments include an amount for purchasing finished compost or biochar, which would provide revenue to the facility owner. The payment schedules vary by state. For example, Delaware’s material purchase rates are $26.10 per CY for compost and $201.87 per CY for biochar.
Short History of the Amendments
Introduced in December 2019, Code 808 is an interim standard with the purposes of:
It lists suitable criteria for applicable amendments and guidance for planning a carbon soil amendment. Twenty-nine states adopted code 808.
Code 336 was introduced in November 2022 as the final standard for soil carbon amendments, with minor changes from Code 808. Its purposes are to:
The main changes that Code 336 implements are quality standards for evaluating soil for amendment and the carbon amendments that need application to the soil.
Eligible Areas
Areas to which this practice applies, if organic carbon amendments will improve soil conditions:
Landowners or operators are responsible for planning, designing, and implementing carbon amendment applications, including acquiring all permits or approvals. The application and approval process varies by state and may be subject to local regulations.
Soil Criteria
Per Code 336, before carbon amendment application, evaluate all soil for:
When conservation objectives are required, evaluate the soil for:
Soil Carbon Amendments Criteria
Code 808 Compost Requirements:
Code 336 Compost Requirements:
Code 336 Biochar Requirements:
Produced compost should be by controlled aerobic, biological decomposition of biodegradable feedstocks and should have the US Composting Council’s Seal of Testing Assurance Program (STA) or meet the Table 2 criteria.
Compost can be combined with other regionally appropriate soil carbon amendments, such as biochar, wood chips, sawdust, or pulverized paper, to meet the soil’s specific needs. Identify contaminants by testing any soil amendments. Remove contaminants such as glass, metal fragments, film plastic, hard plastic, and sharps before submitting the compost application.
Produce biochar by heating biomass to a temperature above 350 °C under controlled and limited oxygen concentrations to prevent combustion (i.e., pyrolysis or gasification). It should have the International Biochar Initiative (IBI) Certified biochar seal or meet the criteria in Table 3.
Payment Rate Tables (CT, DE, and FL Examples)
| Delaware Soil Carbon Amendment (Code 336) EQIP Payments | ||
| Component | Unit | Unit Cost |
| 100% Biochar | Ac | $780.55 |
| HU-100% Biochar | Ac | $936.66 |
| 20% Biochar/80% Compost | Ac | $492.40 |
| HU-20% Biochar/80% Compost | Ac | $590.87 |
| 40% Biochar/60% Compost | Ac | $570.46 |
| HU-40% Biochar/60% Compost | Ac | $684.51 |
| 60% Biochar/40% Compost | Ac | $648.51 |
| HU-60% Biochar/40% Compost | Ac | $778.22 |
| 80% Biochar/20% Compost | Ac | $726.57 |
| HU-80% Biochar/20% Compost | Ac | $871.89 |
| Compost – Off Site | Ac | $219.05 |
| HU-Compost – Off Site | Ac | $262.86 |
| Compost – On Site | Ac | $105.59 |
| HU-Compost – On Site | Ac | $126.71 |
| Compost – Small Areas | kSqFt | $40.48 |
| HU-Compost – Small Areas | kSqFt | $48.57 |
| Compost + Biochar – Small Areas | kSqFt | $48.68 |
| HU-Compost + Biochar – Small Areas | kSqFt | $58.42 |
| Other Carbon Amendment | Ac | $840.51 |
| HU-Other Carbon Amendment | Ac | $1,008.62 |
HU = “Historically Underserved” Farmers and Ranchers
| Florida Soil Carbon Amendment (Code 336) EQIP Payments | ||
| Component | Unit | Unit Cost |
| 100% Biochar | Ac | $761.21 |
| HU-100% Biochar | Ac | $913.45 |
| 20% Biochar-80% Compost | Ac | $473.51 |
| HU-20% Biochar-80% Compost | Ac | $568.21 |
| 40% Biochar-60% Compost | Ac | $551.57 |
| HU-40% Biochar-60% Compost | Ac | $661.88 |
| 60% Biochar-40% Compost | Ac | $629.63 |
| HU-60% Biochar-40% Compost | Ac | $755.56 |
| 80% Biochar-20% Compost | Ac | $707.69 |
| HU-80% Biochar-20% Compost | Ac | $849.23 |
| Compost – Off Site | Ac | $201.96 |
| HU-Compost – Off Site | Ac | $242.36 |
| Compost – On Site | Ac | $90.26 |
| HU-Compost – On Site | Ac | $108.31 |
| Compost – Small Areas | kSqFt | $38.79 |
| HU-Compost – Small Areas | kSqFt | $46.55 |
| Compost + Biochar – Small Areas | kSqFt | $47.00 |
| HU-Compost + Biochar – Small Areas | kSqFt | $56.40 |
| Other Carbon Amendment | Ac | $716.59 |
| HU-Other Carbon Amendment | Ac | $859.91 |
| Connecticut Soil Carbon Amendment (Code 336) EQIP Payments | ||
| Component | Unit | Unit Cost |
| 100% Biochar | Ac | $772.23 |
| HU-100% Biochar | Ac | $926.68 |
| 100% Biochar cu. yd. | CuYd | $213.69 |
| HU-100% Biochar cu. yd. | CuYd | $256.43 |
| 20% Biochar-80% Compost by Volume | CuYd | $108.23 |
| HU-20% Biochar-80% Compost by Volume | CuYd | $129.88 |
| 20% Biochar-80% Compost | Ac | $480.67 |
| HU-20% Biochar-80% Compost | Ac | $576.80 |
| 40% Biochar-60% Compost by Volume | CuYd | $134.60 |
| HU-40% Biochar-60% Compost by Volume | CuYd | $161.52 |
| 40% Biochar-60% Compost | Ac | $558.73 |
| HU-40% Biochar-60% Compost | Ac | $670.47 |
| 60% Biochar-40% Compost by Volume | CuYd | $160.96 |
| HU-60% Biochar-40% Compost by Volume | CuYd | $193.15 |
| 60% Biochar-40% Compost | Ac | $636.79 |
| HU-60% Biochar-40% Compost | Ac | $764.14 |
| 80% Biochar-20% Compost by Volume | CuYd | $187.33 |
| HU-80% Biochar-20% Compost by Volume | CuYd | $224.79 |
| 80% Biochar-20% Compost | Ac | $714.85 |
| HU-80% Biochar-20% Compost | Ac | $857.81 |
| Compost – Off Site | Ac | $210.23 |
| HU-Compost – Off Site | Ac | $252.27 |
| Compost – On Site | Ac | $91.33 |
| HU-Compost – On Site | Ac | $109.59 |
| Compost – Small Areas | kSqFt | $43.62 |
| HU-Compost – Small Areas | kSqFt | $52.34 |
| Compost + Biochar – Small Areas | kSqFt | $51.82 |
| HU-Compost + Biochar – Small Areas | kSqFt | $62.19 |
| Compost Off-site by Volume | CuYd | $72.32 |
| HU- Compost Off-site by Volume | CuYd | $86.79 |
| HU-Other Carbon Amendment | Ac | $730.39 |
| Other Carbon Amendment | Ac | $876.47 |
Find additional state payment tables at https://www.nrcs.usda.gov/getting-assistance/payment-schedules.
Code 336 Implementation
Not all state offices have adopted NRCS Code 336, but the figure below by the US Biochar Initiative shows adoption at the close of 2023. (https://biochar-us.org/code336).
Discussion of the state-by-state adoption of NRCS Code 336 is in the BioCycle article States Should Adopt NRCS Soil Conservation Standard Code.
Code 336 pricing for compost appears to provide reasonable funding to offset material purchase, transport, application, and technical services. However, Code 336 pricing for biochar does not provide enough funds to subsidize the purchase of biochar in most markets fully. Further, additional costs remain for biochar transport, application, or technical services.
Table 1. Soil requirements under NRCS Code 336 (2022).
Table 2. Compost requirements under NRCS Code 336 (2022).
Table 3. Parameters for Biochar Amendments
| Parameter | Range | Unit |
| Total Ash | Report | % of total mass, dry basis |
| Liming equivalent | Report | % CaCO3 |
| Organic Carbon (Corg) | >10 | % DW |
| H:Corg | <0.7 | Molar ratio |
| Chromium | <1200 | mg per kg DW |
Additional Resources:
The Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection (PADEP) has launched a pilot program to speed up the issuance of National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES) permits, focusing on construction stormwater discharges. Started on April 29, 2024, this pilot in 10 counties is designed to streamline the application process for land development projects over one acre that faces unique environmental challenges. Eligible counties include Allegheny, Beaver, Bucks, Chester, Lebanon, Lehigh, Luzerne, Monroe, Montgomery, and York.
From May 1, 2024, the pilot will process up to three NPDES applications per quarter per county, with a yearly maximum of twelve. Applications must involve a licensed professional to oversee the stormwater plan. A significant improvement over traditional methods, the pilot combines completeness and technical reviews within 47 business days. If deficiencies are found, applicants have 22 business days to resolve them, hastening the move to a draft permit stage and public notice.
Exclusions apply to permit renewals, amendments, and projects on brownfield sites or those with large land disturbances or previous enforcement actions. The pilot also mandates two pre-application meetings to ensure eligibility and a final submission within 22 business days after these meetings.
However, the pilot program excludes several types of applications, such as those for permit renewals, amendments, transfers, projects exempt from application fees, or those proposing unapproved stormwater control measures. It also excludes projects requiring special reviews, those disturbing large land areas, or those associated with past enforcement actions. Notably, projects on brownfield sites must complete all required environmental studies and obtain necessary approvals before applying.
The Bureau of Clean Water manages the statewide Erosion and Sediment Control (E&S) program, as specified under 25 Pa. Code Chapter 102, which mandates an E&S permit for certain activities causing significant earth disturbances:
Managed by the Bureau of Clean Water, the pilot seeks to cut application processing times significantly. Additional details and application procedures are available on PADEP’s website.
A draft of the PAG-02 General Permit that would become effective on December 8, 2024, has been posted to DEP’s eLibrary.
Additional Information:
Sonya Betker is a zero waste and sustainability expert who brings decades of experience to SCS. Betker is a TRUE Advisor and a Sustainable Excellence Associate supporting her clients in sustainable resource management and waste reduction practices that minimize waste by reusing as many products as possible.
Betker’s expertise comes from leading regional, national, and global sustainability and circular economy programs for public and private clients by taking a holistic approach to lead and develop strategic programs. She is particularly proficient at maximizing partnerships for more efficient sustainability programs. Much of her experience has been in business management and brokering before her transition to environmental consulting.
Creating connections between stakeholders and excellent communication has been a constant throughout her career. These traits are especially valuable in zero waste and sustainability planning because they involve multiple stakeholders, including the public.
“Sonya brings field experience and a proven track record driving sustainability, building the business case highlighting potential revenue gains and cost savings with buy-in to sustainability,” states Betsy Powers, vice president and project director. “That provides more successful paths to circular systems, and our clients appreciate our sensitivity to costs.”
Betker’s background includes a B.S. in Business Management – Sustainability from the University of Wisconsin–Stout and over ten professional affiliations and certifications. She has a deep understanding of the most current sustainability issues, tools, and techniques and can communicate sustainability topics to diverse audiences. She can accurately assess sustainability risks and opportunities in an organization, community, or industry.
Betker is an author recognized in industry publications for her article “The future relationship of sustainability and traditional waste and recycling may be a key piece in solving our waste puzzle,” and featured in “Women in Waste” for her leadership skills.
“I’ve learned to look at the big picture of waste and recycling,” Betker said. “I like to look for commodities within markets and help with that circularity—reframing waste as a resource. Stopping or reusing food waste is a particularly rewarding area for many municipalities and businesses.”
Additional Resources:
Join SCS Engineers at the annual FET Conference and Exhibition, called Environment 2024, October 29th – October 31st, at the Marriott Milwaukee West in Waukesha, WI.
As an exhibitor sponsor, come visit us at Booth #34, SCS Engineers is excited to participate in this prestigious event focused on environmental, health, and safety advancements. Cheryl Moran will be attending the FET Annual Conference. Engage with us as we explore professional development courses, informative sessions, and networking opportunities aimed at shaping the future of environmental technologies. Don’t miss the opportunity to connect with SCS Engineers and explore the latest advancements in environmental technology and services.
John Tadelski is presenting on October 29th, from 3:30-4:15 pm as part of the professional development day. He is delivering the talk called: Air Compliance Best Practices and New Developments.
A number of recent changes have come about in the Wisconsin air management world and more are anticipated. New guidance on stacks and obstructions, compliance after the redesignation of the Milwaukee nonattainment area, and general compliance best practices and overlooked practices will be covered.
Mark Hammers is presenting Thursday, October 31st, 9:45-10:30 am. He is delivering a presentation called: NAAQS – Updated Standards, Redesignation, and the Impact on Air Permitting.
EPA has revised the PM2.5 ambient air quality standard, and in addition, the nonattainment status for ozone is changing in certain areas of Wisconsin. How will these changes impact your facility and future permitting?
Join SCS Engineers at the 2024 WV Brownfields & Main Street Conference, taking place September 10th to 12th, 2024, at the Summersville Arena & Conference Center. This premier redevelopment event in West Virginia offers insightful sessions and workshops focused on brownfields redevelopment and downtown revitalization in rural communities.
Registration opens in June, so mark your calendars and join us for this all-day event where industry leaders converge to discuss strategies for sustainable development and community renewal. Don’t miss this opportunity to at the 2024 WV Brownfields & Main Street Conference connect, learn, and contribute to the future of West Virginia’s economic and environmental landscape.
Melissa Schick will be speaking at the conference!
Join SCS Engineers at the 2024 Virginia Brownfields Conference, an event hosted by the Virginia Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ) and the City of Lynchburg Office of Economic Development & Tourism. This conference, held in Lynchburg, VA from June 25th to June 27th, offers a comprehensive exploration of brownfield redevelopment and the revitalization of communities.
Attendees will have the opportunity to immerse themselves in the captivating story of Lynchburg’s development, including the remarkable transformation of landmarks such as Jefferson Street and The Virginian Hotel. Through engaging sessions, participants will gain valuable insights into the various facets of brownfield redevelopment, from initial concept planning to the final stages of development and reuse.
Melissa Schick will be presenting on Numbers Talk! Elevating Communities Through Data and Funding
Join SCS Engineers and fellow attendees for three days of learning, networking, and exploration at the 2024 Virginia Brownfields Conference. Don’t miss your chance to be part of this dynamic event shaping the future of brownfield redevelopment in Virginia and beyond.
Join SCS Engineers at The 2024 Florida Brownfields Association (FBA) Annual Brownfields Conference June 26th-28th. Working in cooperation with a wide range of governmental and non-governmental organizations and citizen groups, are a group of environmental stakeholders and professionals who provide brownfields information, assistance, and redevelopment strategies to communities and the public. The 2024 FBA Annual Brownfields Conference brings stakeholders together for networking, learning, and a community day for local organizations to help support and strengthen environmental justice support. The conference is June 26th – 28th in Gainesville, FL.
Melissa Schick and Douglas Latulippe will be in attendance. Register today!
Douglas will be presenting Solar on Brownfields at the conference. Don’t miss it!
SCS Engineers is again hosting our popular half-day Solid Waste Seminar in Harrisburg, Pennsylvania on June 5. Lunch is included.
This annual seminar covers the latest regulatory, policy, and technology developments in solid waste, landfill, landfill gas, and sustainable materials management. It is designed for solid waste management professionals, landfill managers, waste/recycling managers, supervisors, and operators.
This year’s presentations will be
Please see the flyer for registration information. We hope to see you there!
Join SCS Engineers at the 2024 FECM / NETL Carbon Management Research Project Review Meeting, August 5-9, in Pittsburg, PA. Explore more than 150 Department of Energy-sponsored research and development projects at this vibrant event. Engage in plenary sessions, multi-topic breakouts, and interactive poster sessions, fostering dialogue and collaboration among project researchers, government agencies, electric utilities, research organizations, and industry stakeholders. 2024 FECM / NETL Carbon Management Research Project Review Meeting is open to the public, including international attendees, this meeting promises a wealth of publicly available information and opportunities for engagement in cutting-edge carbon management research efforts.
Meet SCS at the meeting
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