Evaluating the profitability of high-value end products produced from spent mushroom substrate

Evaluating the profitability of high-value end products produced from spent mushroom substrate

Summary

We are currently seeking profitable uses for spent mushroom substrate.  We are evaluating the profitability of alternatives to composting.  These alternatives include the production of live worms and castings.

Objectives/Performance Targets

There are several cooperators involved with this project. Wendy Rizzo is involved with the administrative duties including organizing and uploading reports and preparing invoices.  Kurt Grevenberg is involved with moving worm bins, SMS and turning compost piles.  I have also been communicating with Adam Michaelides for general composting advice.

Accomplishments/Milestones

A major change to the farm in 2013 has been our acceptance into the NYC Greenmarket e have added markets inthe upscale neighborhoods of Tribeca and the Upper East Side of Manhattan. 

Impacts and Contributions/Outcomes

We have created 4 large piles composted of spent mushroom substrate.  Two of these piles have been processed into finished compost and 2 piles remian to be processed and measured.  We have also raised red wigglers and European earthworms and used them to convert SMS to pure worm castings.  Performing a nutritional analysis and analyzing the final data remains.

While most of the production has been measured, the analysis of profitablilty has yet to be performed.  This will be performed for the final report.

Preliminary sales have not been as brisk as expected.  Perhaps a new marketing strategy could improve sales.  It’s possible that products generated frm the project (compost, castings, worms) would work best input directly back into the farm.  This includes using composting to improve the farm soil fertility and castings as part of a farm nursery.

Collaborators: