Black Ripple Kiln Loan Program

Checklist for borrowers

Equipment checklist

  • Kiln (6 inner panels, 6 outer panels, 6 connector brackets, 36 wing nuts (plus extras) in magnetic dish

  • WD-40 or other lubricant for rusty studs & wing nuts

  • propane torch, 5- gal. canister (optional; helpful for igniting wet/green material)

  • newspaper (if needed for lighting kiln)

  • non-synthetic clothing

  • leather gloves for everyone

  • eye protection

  • chain saw (including hearing protection)

  • loppers (optional)

  • drinking water

  • pressurized water to extinguish kiln, with spray nozzle

  • iron rakes (for stirring fire and raking out biochar at end of burn)

  • McLeod or grub hoe (to shore up dirt against inner wall and/or for raking out biochar)

  • Scoop shovel (optional, for gathering extinguished biochar)

  • Digital moisture meter (optional)

  • Laser thermometer (optional)

you will also need

Call before you burn, per their instructions. You can apply for and obtain your permits online at the links. Permits should be on hand during the burn. Air quality management districts do not (yet) distinguish biochar-making from other kinds of burning.

  • One or (preferably) two helpers