From Theory to Practice: Alberta Producers Keep Their Hands Clean While Embracing Soil Biology Innovation

The Johnson-Su bioreactor is a passive, no-turn composting system designed to produce high-quality fungal-dominant compost that supports soil health and microbial life.

Developed by Dr. David Johnson and Hui-Chun Su, the method focuses on using plant-based materials only—not manure or food scraps—to avoid introducing pathogens or causing anaerobic conditions. In Alberta, readily available materials like hay work well, but almost any clean plant matter can be used. The bioreactor uses a vertical, aerated structure that allows the compost to break down slowly—typically over a year—without turning. The result is a rich, earthy compost that can be used in small amounts to boost soil biology and improve plant productivity.

When it comes to reducing fertilizer costs while maintaining productivity, wouldn’t it be great to have nature working harder for us?

That’s exactly the potential offered by the Johnson-Su composting bioreactor, and on July 3rd, 2024, Alberta producers got to see this innovation up close at the 4th Annual Soil Builders School near Rimbey.

Why This Matters to Your Operation

The Johnson-Su bioreactor offers a practical, hands-on solution for producers looking to:

• Reduce dependence on synthetic fertilizers

• Enhance soil microbial life and nutrient cycling

• Build resilience into their farming systems

• Create their own high-quality biological amendments on-farm

“If we can reduce fertilizer and provide more nutrients through biological cycling—and hopefully have no decrease in yields—we will have an important climate contribution,” explained the workshop organizers. But achieving this requires accessible, scalable tools—and that’s where the Johnson-Su bioreactor shines.

Learning from the Experts

The event began with Dr. David Johnson and his wife, who co-developed the system, diving into the science behind the bioreactor. Their presentation focused on the mechanics and microbiology that make this system unique:

• It’s aerobic and fungal-dominant

• Designed to maximize microbial diversity

• It’s static—no turning required, unlike traditional compost piles

• Produces a clay-like compost product after 9–12 months, suitable for seed coatings, slurry applications, or field spraying

This is more than compost—this is microbial inoculation at scale, acting much like yeast in bread dough, introducing powerful soil biology to rejuvenate degraded systems.

Real Alberta Experience and Local Considerations

Alberta producer Shorty Fensky shared his experience building and managing several versions of the bioreactor. His feedback sparked important discussions about adapting the system to Alberta’s climate.

Adapting for Cold Climates

A key consideration raised was the importance of protecting the bioreactor from freezing during the 9–12 month composting period. Alberta producers will need to plan for winter housing—ideally a heated shop or barn—to maintain the microbial activity that drives decomposition.

Getting Hands-On: From Concept to Construction

The hands-on portion of the workshop included building a bioreactor at Brendon Anderson’s farm, with guidance from Dr. Johnson and his wife. This session helped participants understand the full process from material selection to aeration design, emphasizing the simplicity and reusability of the system.

Real-Time Monitoring and Lessons from the Field

Fast forward six months from the July workshop, and Anderson’s bioreactor was well into its composting cycle. In January 2025, the team from CAFLA (Central Alberta Forage and Livestock Association) visited the farm to assess its progress.

• The compost reached 180°F within a week, indicating a strong thermophilic phase.

• After cooling, worms were added to aid in decomposition.

• At the six-month mark, the pile had about 18 inches of well-decomposed material with a rich smell and minimal odor—positive indicators of a healthy process.

Anderson also experimented with a modified version using tote containers. He found that soaking the materials overnight made them easier to handle, and he fine-tuned watering frequency from every few days to biweekly in winter, thanks to a dehumidifier that captured and reused moisture.

"The biggest thing that was a learning curve for me that I wasn’t expecting is the humidity inside," Anderson said, noting the ice buildup on his shop windows before installing the dehumidifier.

Despite minor insect presence, Anderson noted the system was manageable and was already preparing for next steps.

Looking Ahead: From Trial to Application

Anderson plans to apply the compost across 200 acres using a liquid injection kit on his seed drill in May 2025, testing its performance in-furrow:

"I have a liquid kit on my seed drill, so we’ll inject it in-furrow with the seed. It has to be clean enough that it will go through the orifices on the injection system without plugging".

His goal? To reduce reliance on synthetic fertilizers and transition toward healthier, farm-specific biological inputs.

“There’s lots of naysayers about this practice. And it may not be the end-all-be-all. But being able to make your own amendments and be location-specific to my farm has been a big draw,” Anderson emphasized.

Growing Momentum Across Alberta

With 41 producers in attendance at the July event, including five from the Regenerative Alberta Living Lab (RALL), it's clear that Alberta producers are ready to explore biological amendments. Several attendees planned to replicate the bioreactor and test compost extract applications during seeding.

What’s Next in the Living Lab?

As part of the Regenerative Alberta Living Lab, this bioreactor project is being studied to assess:

• How well the compost performs in different Alberta soil types

• Its potential to reduce fertilizer inputs

• How it contributes to emission reduction goals and farm resilience

This long-term applied research will inform broader strategies for ecosystem services and soil health innovations.

Want to Learn More?

If you’re curious about how to get started with the Johnson-Su bioreactor, here’s how:

1. Download the “Best Management Practices: Johnson-Su Composting Bioreactors” guide for full build instructions and best practices.

2. Connect with RALL or CAFLA to hear from others who are already testing the system.

Working Together for Resilient Agriculture

This event and ongoing research were made possible through the collaboration of Grey Wooded Forage Association (now CAFLA), Farming Forward, and the Regenerative Alberta Living Lab, who continue to support innovative, scalable solutions for Alberta producers.