Soil Microbiology and Ecology Workshop

In this interactive workshop, Jake reveals the hidden world beneath our feet. Through live microscope sessions, you’ll observe the microbes that drive nutrient cycling, protect plants, and build resilient ecosystems. Drawing on global experience from projects like Greening the Desert, Jake shares the principles of the Soil Food Web, biodiversity, and ecological succession.

 You’ll explore practical methods to reintroduce biology into degraded soils, connect soil health with climate stability, and apply systems thinking for land regeneration. Combining cutting-edge science with Indigenous ecological wisdom, this workshop equips you with the tools, inspiration, and holistic understanding to create thriving, regenerative landscapes.

What is included in this Workshop?

Workshop Highlights

• Live Microscope Session – See soil or compost samples analysed to identify key Soil Food Web organisms and their roles.
• Theoretical Framework – Introduction to soil microbiology, the Soil Food Web, and their role in succession and resilience.
• International Case Studies – Inspiring examples of microbiology and natural systems restoring soils worldwide.

Key Topics

• Importance of Soil Microbiology – Understand microbes essential to healthy, living soils.
• Biodiversity & Nutrient Cycling – How diverse soil life supports nutrient flow.
• Pest & Disease Protection – How balanced soil ecosystems defend plants naturally.
• Practical Soil Integration – Hands-on methods to reintroduce biology into soil.
• Soils, Evolution & Climate – Linking soil development to planetary evolution and stability.
• Soil Food Web & Ecology – Explore relationships between soil organisms and ecosystems.
• Ecological Succession & Syntropy – How life builds complexity and cooperation over time.
• Systems Thinking & Regeneration – Designing holistic, regenerative landscapes.
• Biodiversity & Resilience – Why diversity strengthens ecosystems.
• Live Microscope Projection – Watch soil life magnified in real-time.
• Practical Steps & Q&A – Actionable takeaways and tailored answers.