The Practical Compost Academy
Workshop Topics
Soil Biology and the Foodweb
Learn the foundational basics of the soil foodweb for practical application. Find out how you can make targeted biological treatments for the plant types you want to grow, and cut expensive, toxic chemical inputs. Learn how compost, compost extract, compost teas, vermicompost and microscopy offer a direct pathway to regenerating landscapes and restoring fertility at every scale and in almost any context. See real world examples of biological land treatments which saved farmers livelihoods, increased profitability, and restored the ecology of the land.
The Art of Composting (Thermophilic, Vermicompost and Static Composting)
You’ll get a deep dive, hands-on instruction in the creation of Thermophilic and Static composting to make high quality, Bio-Complete compost that is sought after around the world. See techniques for material collection, compost building, monitoring, maintenance and turning that will save you thousands of dollars and hundreds of hours of trial and error..
Compost Extracts and Teas
Learn how you can scale the application of compost and regenerative soil fertility with Compost Extracts and Compost Teas. See real world application examples of chemical to biological conversions using Compost Extracts and Teas.
Application Techniques
Learn how to apply Compost, Extract and Teas to plants, soil, and seeds for maximum effectiveness, and how to calculate application rates depending on your land size and plant needs.
Compost Technologies and Scaling
See different technologies for composting, from the home and homestead scale to 10,000+ acre farms.
Microscopy
Get hands on training on practical Microscopy for Biological Soil Assessment. Learn how to assess soil and compost quality through microscope analysis. Cut your learning curve with microscopy and feel confident with biology sampling.
Syntropic Agriculture
Learn how Porvenir design mimics a natural forest design to create a regenerative farm that is productive and incredibly diverse at Finca Luna. See how these systems can be used in a global and tropical context to create diverse crops that regenerate the health of the landscape and are more resilient to climate extremes. You’ll see how Syntropic Agriculture is managed across 11 hectares in the context of Costa Rica from real farmers.
Tropical Composting
Learn how to make compost for both a global and tropical context so you can have better success making biological amendments.
Real Case Studies
See how different farmers, soil consultants, composters and growers used Biological treatments to transform farms and businesses away from chemicals and failing practices. See how practical soil biology treatments improve profitability and soil fertility and improve livelihoods.
Workshop Schedule
The Practical Compost Academy Retreat Costa Rica 2024 -November 18-24
November 18 (Day 0) Arrival
Time TBA Group Pickup or self transport from San José Airport to Finca Luna Nueva Lodge. Meet, network, have a nice dinner and relax.
November 19 - Day 1: Diving into the Soil Safari- Soil Biology and Syntropic Agriculture Deep Dive
9:00 - 10:30: Soil Safari: Exploring Microbial Magic with Brian Vagg Discover the hidden world beneath our feet and learn how microbes work their wonders in the soil!
10:30 - 12:30 Meet the Microbes: Microscopic Marvels with Keisha Ernst Get up close and personal with live soil samples through our microscope introduction and see microbes in action.
12:30-2:00PM Tropical Lunch Break – Recharge with local flavors and mingle with fellow adventurers.
2:00-4:30 Syntropic Agriculture Introduction and farm tour of Finca Luna Nueva oLodge
4:30-5:00 Open Q&A
November 20 - Day 2: Practical Composting in Action- Thermophilic Composting, and Syntropic Agroforestry Farm Management
9:00 - 10:30: Composting 101: Crafting the Perfect Pile with Casey and Keisha Ernst Everything you need to know to build a thriving compost pile from scratch.
10:45 - 11:00: Microbe Collection Extravaganza with Keisha Roll up your sleeves for hands-on fun as we gather microbes to kickstart our compost journey.
11:00 - 12:30: Build Your Compost Pile with Casey Ernst Dive into compost construction and create a pile that’s ready to transform the soil.
12:30 - 2:00: Lunch in Paradise – Enjoy a leisurely meal with breathtaking views.
2:00-4:00 Syntropic Farming deep dive with Scott Gallant and Gerardo Calderón.
4:00-5:00 Open Q&A
November 21 - Day 3: Extracts & Teas- The Magic of Microbe Brews- Learn how to Brew and Apply Compost Extracts and Teas on a working Farm.
9:00 - 10:30: Brewing Compost Extracts and Teas with Brian Vagg Learn how to create potent extracts and teas to supercharge your compost and soil restoration efforts.
10:45 - 12:30: Hands-On Extraction & Application with the Whole Team Get hands-on with making extracts and applying them to your compost and soil.
12:30 - 2:00 Lunch in Paradise – Enjoy a leisurely meal with breathtaking views.
2:00-4:00 Application on the Farm- Learn how Finca Luna Nueva uses Compost amendments on the farm for a tropical context.
4:00-5:00 Open Q&A
November 22- Day 4: Microscopic Wonders- Learn how to use Microscopy to Assess Soil Health and Biology, and take an Exclusive Regenerative Chocolate Tour.
9:00 - 10:30: Microscopy Unleashed: What Can We See? with Keisha Ernst Uncover the secrets of the microscopic world and understand what’s happening in your soil and compost.
10:15 - 12:30: Live Microscopy & Hands-On Training with the Whole Team Analyze samples from our adventures and get expert guidance on using microscopes effectively.
12:30 - 2:00 Lunch in Paradise – Enjoy a leisurely meal with breathtaking views.
2:00-4:30 Chocolate Production and Cultivation
4:30-5:00 Open Q&A
November 23 - Day 5: Scaling Up and Water Wonders- See examples for scaling up working with large farms, and join in on a breathtaking hot spring trip.
9:00 - 10:30: Scaling Up Success: Large-Scale Operations with Brian Vagg Explore successful large-scale operations and get tips on scaling up your own projects.
10:45 - 12:30: Water Wonders: Sample Peeks & Analysis Dive into the world of water samples and discover the vital role water plays in our microbial adventures.
12:30 - 2:00 Lunch in Paradise – Enjoy a leisurely meal with breathtaking views.
2:00-5:00 Hot Spring Trip at Arenal Hot Spring
5:30-6:30 Final Celebration Session and Dinner
November 24 - Day 6 (Post Retreat): Breakfast, checkout at Finca Luna Nueva Lodge and Shuttle back to San José Airport.
Each day blends hands-on learning with the beauty and excitement of Costa Rica, ensuring an unforgettable experience both educationally and culturally.
Past Workshop Testimonials
I recently had the pleasure of attending Camp Catalyst, what a nourishing, enriching and fun experience! From start to finish, the camp was a perfect blend of hands-on learning, expert guidance, and community building.
The instructors were not only knowledgeable but also passionate about the science and art of growing beneficial microbes. Their enthusiasm was infectious, making the entire process of learning about soil biology, composting techniques, and regenerative practices both engaging and enjoyable.
It was clear that Catalyst Bioamendments is committed to not just teaching about composting, but also building a network of like-minded individuals who are passionate about sustainability and regenerative agriculture.
-Maya Elson
I learned so much and had a great time at Camp Catalyst. The workshops were wide ranging from compost and vermicompost fundamentals, extracts/teas with application tools, wildfire prep/management, biochar, microscopy, and Brian Vagg's talk on transitioning to biology was next level.
It was so intimate, with those who were teaching getting to learn and connect alongside everyone else. Connecting with everyone who attended was a highlight, so many great folks were attracted to the event.
I would highly recommend attending for the new backyard gardener all the way to the seasoned agronomist, and everyone in between.
-Ty Teissere
I’ve never met a crew more engaging, committed, and capable of curating the best of the best in the field of regenerative work. Catalyst’s team has always mindfully planned and executed their workshops. The schedule, the speakers, the FOOD, the team spirit, and the messages are all always on point.
They not only inspire their attendees, they make them family and also give usable, hands-on experience. I’ve always left their workshops energized, deeply motivated to continue healing the planet, and equipped with ideas, tools, and the experience needed to keep doing better.
-Geo Debs
Are You Ready?
This is not just a learning retreat - it’s an opportunity to transform your skills so you can create healthy soils anywhere on earth.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some answered to frequently asked questions about the workshop
How will I get to the Venue?
Finca Luna Nueva Lodge is about a 2 hour drive from the San José Airport in Costa Rica. We will arrange shuttle times based on group arrivals on November 18th. You can also book your own taxi, shuttle or rent a car to get to Finca Luna Nueva Lodge.
What's included in the ticket price?
Ticket price includes lodging at Finca Luna Nueva Lodge November 18th-24th, Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner November 19-24, Group Airport Shuttle to and from San José Airport, and the Workshop
Can I book my own lodging?
Yes, there are places available around Finca Luna Nueva lodge but you will have to book them yourself and arrange self transportation.
Should I get flight insurance?
YES, you should get flight insurance in case your flight is delayed or cancelled, as delays are commonplace.
Can I book as a group?
Yes, you can book as a group and this is preferred. Groups and couples have first preference over rooms.
If I want to stay by myself at the retreat, what are my options?
We offer a single room upgrade with a $500 additional booking, also subject to Finca Luna's availability of extra rooms.
What is your cancellation and refund policy?
We offer a refund within 5 days of purchase. Any purchases made after November 5th are non-refundable. If the workshop does not meet the minimum signups by September 25th, all purchases will be refunded.
Will the workshop be recorded?
Yes, the workshop will be recorded for release at another date as part of a course. You'll get an exclusive offer for course access at a steep discount.
