Hillsborough, NC | laura.kavanaugh@genomeinsights.com

Dr. Laura Kavanaugh holds degrees in Chemistry, Chemical Engineering and Mechanical Engineering from Purdue University and a Ph.D. from the University Program in Genetics and Genomics from Duke. She worked for 13 years as a Guidance, Navigation and Control Officer in Space Shuttle Mission Control at the Johnson Space Center and transitioned into the biotechnology industry as the Space Shuttle Program came to an end. She has over 10 years of experience with bioinformatics, DNA sequencing, and soil microbe research at Syngenta Biotechnology. She is now founder of Genome Insights LLC, a company devoted to improving soil health through application of DNA sequencing to composting and sustainable farming practices. She also serves as the soil health expert and Executive Director of the Center for Regenerative Agriculture at Union Grove Farm Vineyard in Chapel Hill, NC.

Workshop Time: Tuesday, Feb 6, 1:00 PM – 4:30 PM

Workshop Title: Regenerative Farming, Composting, Teas, Vermicomposting, and DNA Sequencing

Workshop Description: This workshop will explain the complementary nature of composting, lawn care and regeneratve farming. We will share our experience with the application of compost and extracts on regeneratve farms, including how to use vermicompost to enhance the microbial content of other composts. We will explain why microbes are important to agriculture, and how to evaluate them with microscopes and hand-held DNA sequencers. Hands-on demonstrations will include a continuous flow vermi-composter, compost extractor, microscope, and DNA sequencer. We will include case studies of small/midsize-scale compost/extract/vermicompost production in regenerative farming and lawn care.