Carbon Sponge
The New York Hall of Science is Using our Blumat BluSoak for an Experiment
A project called “Carbon Sponge” is being implemented at the New York Hall of Science and is using a Blumat system for irrigation. The purpose of the project is to better understand the various environmental conditions that affect the amount of carbon that is either stored in, or released, from soils. The goal of this study is to find the optimal conditions of storage for carbon, and to minimize its release back into the atmosphere as CO2. The factors that are being closely monitored and that impact this cycle are: soil temperature, soil type, moisture, microbial activity, plant cover and planting combinations.
The living laboratory garden uses the BluSoak soaker hose. For those who are unaware, BluSoak is a drip tape that emits an even distribution of water through the many output micro-holes found throughout the entire length of the soaker hose. This soaker hose has been known for its durability and efficiency. No batteries or electricity are required by the drip irrigation system as it employs a concept of gravity and physics to provide the perfect amount of water. Brooke Singer, the designer in the resident at the NY Hall of Science, says “…so far so good”, while commenting on the Blumat system.
The impressive garden at the New York Hall of Science, consists of a total of 24 plots of eight planting variations, with each variety being replicated three times. The variations of plots include: a) zero planting (control); b) sunflowers; c) edibles (gooseberry and okra); d) cover crop mixture; e) sunflowers and edibles; f) edibles and cover crop mixture; g) sunflowers and cover crop mixture and edible; and, h) cover crop mixture and sunflower.
The project will be releasing more information on their findings overtime. Meanwhile if you are interested in learning more about the project click the link below.
