Proterra is the result of several years of testing and fine tuning farming practices to find solutions to most of the common issues threatening our fields and crops. It turned out to be all about the soil health. Decades of farming, both organic and conventional, has given us the opportunity to analyze, test and develop a perfectly balanced solution to regenerate soil health and its biodiversity.

Developed by Poplar Valley Organic Farms:

In simple words we could say that we are making compost pellets. However it is not common compost, it's a supercharged one or to be more precise, it is a Bio-Activated Compost.

who we are:

Poplar Valley Organic Farms is our home, that's where we farm and where we tested and developed Proterra. Four genereations of farming experience, learning season after season, trying all kinds of practices just as you have. We are in the same boat and that's why we are eager for you to try it. We see the results, and we know you will see them too.

why we make it:

Developing this product comes with a way of thinking, a vision of farming as part of a bigger natural system. It’s a question of relationship: “How can we work with this land to create a thriving, healthy system for all?” moving from domination to cooperation. We think that as farmers, it is not only our duty but in our best interest to keep the land healthy and productive.

It's all about taking care of the land so the land can take care of us, now and for generations to come

Regular Compost is the result of decomposed organic matter, and is great for dressing your soil, however on long time exploited farm land you'll need something stronger to replenishing the soil nutrient cycle; Bio-Activated Compost is enriched with a concentrated blend of essential nutrients and microorganisms. Designed to immediately improve soil structure, replenish depleted soils, and boost plant growth by restoring the natural soil food web.

how we make it:

(2)Throughout the whole process we track, control and create the right conditions to promote a healthy fermentation and rich microbial life. Once the compost pile is mature and ready to be processed we screen out debris and add our well balanced booster blend rich in nutrients and humates.

local organic matter

composting process

enriching and pelleting

ready for delivery

(1) Our philosophy is based in sustainability and stewardship of the land, therefore we keep our supply chain organic and local. Our compost piles are made of manure from our own organic cattle and locally available farming and forestry byproducts.

(3)The batch is now ready to be pelleted. Moisture and temperature are key elements during the entire process to ensure the well being of the microorganisms. Our experienced crew is constantly fine tuning the process to maintain the perfect conditions and produce a beautiful dense and stable pellet. At this point, quality control is key to ensure a shelf-stable product that is clean and easy to work with.

In order to grow, thrive and come to fruition, every plant needs a growing support that provides the essential nutrients, and proper growing conditions. Nature had it figured out since the beginning with rain water, sunlight and a microscopic yet powerful factory of nutrients built within the soil: The Nutrient Cycle. This cycle is in charge of decomposing organic matter and turning it into the nutrients that among many other things, will feed your crop. 

Harvesting Nature's Wisdom:

The solution has always been there,
Making it available, that's a different story

Learn more on Soil Health

However, years of exploitation have been enabling and neglecting soil's nutrient cycle, shutting it down and making it dormant.

In short, soil regeneration reactivates soil's natural capacity of decomposing organic matter and producing nutrients while improving soil structure, reducing compaction and creating a better, more porous habitat for microbes and roots to grow, with nutrients and moisture available when most needed.

Your soil is starving, it's time to feed it and help it heal

This is when

See full benefits: The Product

comes into play

"I like working here because it feels honest and with a purpose. We truly believe in what we’re doing. Making product that actually helps the land and the farmers, not just the wallet. I see every pellet we make as my grain of sand in helping heal the planet."

Dan Friske, Plant Manager

"I’m out in the yard turning piles and making sure the compost matures the way it should. There’s a bit of an art to it. When it’s done properly, you can see, feel, and smell the difference. That same care is carried through the whole process. We take our time and do it right."

Terry Helstrom, Compost Yard Operator

harvest is better when we pull together: