The Composting Series

The following two DVDs provide a comprehensive instruction to the science and ecology of composting. Start with an overview of the many organisms which make up the soil environment. Explore the wide array of micro and macro-organisms which work to break down organic matter. Learn how to design, implement, and operate effective compost systems. 106 minutes of programming on two DVD disks

The Composing Series
Get the two composting programs listed below, plus Soil Biology listed here and save $60. This set includes a FREE DVD Player.

$333 -

Part 1 - The Science of Biological Decomposition: Effective Composting Methods
Start on the microscopic level to see the wide array of micro and macro-organisms which break down organic matter. See how to create compost and explore its water and nutrient holding capacity. Learn the basics of aerobic hot composting & how to create a good C:C (brown:green) ratio when layering. Also, see how to implement proper watering rates and how to use a thermometer to determine the pile's mesophyllic/thermophilic cycle. This shows when to turn the pile or windrow. Other methods shown include sheet, pit and worm composting. This program is very popular for teaching what compost is and how it can be effectively produced. 33 minutes.

Part 2 - Integrated Compost Systems
See how to design, implement and operate effective compost systems. Visit a renowned agricultural compost operator, a worm farm operator, a landscape manager who composts all of the organic matter at a golf and town home retirement community, a yard waste recycling specialist who coordinates a city-wide compost system, a landfill manager who runs a huge windrow operation, and a university compost manager who integrates food waste, yard waste and farm waste. DVD 33 minutes.

$119.00 -

The foolish man seeks happiness in the distance,
the wise grows it under his feet.
- James Oppenheim

The Soil Science Series

Part 1 - Introduction to Soil Science: Soil Forming Factors
This insightful video introduces students to the forces and factors that influence soil development. Filled with beautiful and interesting examples, see the various parent material soil types. Learn details about Residual, Cumulose and Transported soils. Students will understand the definitions of Alluvial, Eollan, Glacial and Colluvial. Then explore the other soil forming factors: climate, topography, the biosphere and time, and their accumulative effects on soil development. Included are exciting aerials views of glaciers, in addition to scenes of deserts, valleys, mountains, estuaries and a myriad of other locations. This blend of visual and narrative information has a great impact on students' grasp of this complex subject. 25 minutes

$119.00 -

Part 2 - The Properties of Soil
Understanding the physical properties of soil leads to better informed management decisions by many people including farmers, landscapers, civil engineers, architects, land use planners & resource specialists. By knowing the properties of our soils we can make better decisions about its use and conservation. In this video we cover the physical properties of soil texture, structure, water, slope, depth & color. Viewers learn how soil is formed as we explore the five soil forming factors of climate, organisms, parent materials, topography and time. Types of rocks and how they are formed are covered. Beautiful videography & relevant examples make this video a pleasure to watch as students learn about the properties of soil. This program won a Telly Award! 24 minutes

$119.00 -

Part 3 - Soil Biology
This program is loaded with information on the many organisms which make up the soils environment. From easily visible earthworms to microscopic bacteria, discover valuable information on the roles and interactions of the soil's flora and fauna. See how soil biology relates to soil horizons, porosity, water holding capacity and other physical properties of soil.

While soil fertility is often measured by a soil's chemical, mineral and organic matter content, new research is presented on how the many species of mesofauna can be extracted from the soil and then used as indicators of soil fertility. Examine soil pests as well as beneficial life forms found in the soil. Also see human attitudes towards soil organisms and learn how opinions can develop which are not always based on science. Clear narration, effective use of graphics and fascinating microphotography bring into focus the many life forms in the soil of our farms and landscapes. 24 minutes.

$155 -