American Bamboo Society 2023 Conference
Sponsored by the Louisiana Gulf Coast Chapter
On Sunday Vinc Math led the conference attendees constructing a bamboo gazebo at Rip Van Winkle Gardens.
Ian Connnor and James Clever presented “Controlling Spreading Bamboo and Urban Gardens“
Phone In Panel Discussion (left to right)
Jeremiah Brown – Black Bamboo Charcoal
Casey Murphy – Panda Industries
Jamie Leliever – National Bamboo
Mark Shollenberger – Only Moso
Everest Holmes, Director of Operations at National Bamboo LLC.
With a background in business management and operations, I hold a BA in Outdoor Leadership from Warren Wilson College. It was during my time at the college in 2010 that I first started managing and studying timber bamboo, igniting my passion for improving soil health and agricultural productivity.
In addition, I am a Certified Soil Food Web Consultant and Lab Tech. I have undergone a rigorous educational program that has granted me the license to provide microscopy assessment services independently under the Soil Food Web methodology. This program is led by an internationally renowned group of microbiologists who advocate for a standardized biological approach to soil health.
My experience and desire to help the environment and people have led me to collaborate with farmers and landowners to enhance soil health and increase agricultural productivity, with a particular focus on bamboo. At National Bamboo LLC, I am responsible for managing the manufacturing and logistics operations of our business, overseeing production, supply chain management, and the consulting service. I actively engage in day-to-day operations, working closely with our team members to ensure the efficient and effective functioning of the company.
Presentation 1 Title: Harnessing Nature’s Allies: Microbial Insights for Optimizing Bamboo Farming
Description: A showcase of research findings based on a comprehensive data set gathered throughout the spring, summer, and fall of 2023. The data includes analysis of fungal to bacterial biomass ratios and population levels of organisms such as amoeba, flagellates, and nematodes. To engage the audience, I will begin the presentation by showcasing a prerecorded video where I explore and identify these organisms using a 400X microscope and camera. This will provide valuable insights into the soil composition and health of a mature and vibrant bamboo grove. During the presentation, I will describe the methodology, tools, and software used in the microscopy process, as well as introduce the Soil Food Web School and its role in the Save Soil movement, emphasizing its relevance to bamboo farming. I will share and discuss the research findings and their implications for optimizing bamboo farming methods, thereby promoting sustainable agricultural practices and environmental conservation.
Presentation 2 Title: The Bamboo Industry in the USA: A Regenerative Future
Description: The state and trajectory of the bamboo industry in the United States through the lens of National Bamboo LLC, the largest timber bamboo nursery supply chain in the country. Discover why bamboo is rapidly becoming a preferred solution for addressing environmental challenges and providing a sustainable future in various industries.
Key Points:
- Introduction to National Bamboo LLC: Learn about our company’s role as a leading supplier of timber bamboo and our commitment to promoting responsible and ecologically sound bamboo production.
- Market Analysis and Trends: Gain insights into the current state of the bamboo industry in the USA, including influential factors, market trends, and growing consumer demand for bamboo products in construction, furniture making, landscaping, horticulture, and soil health.
- Future Outlook and Path Forward: Discover the potential for the bamboo industry’s growth and development in the USA, along with strategies for overcoming challenges and fostering collaboration among industry stakeholders.
Together, let’s explore the market dynamics, environmental benefits, and pathways to further its growth.
