Compost Research & Education Foundation Announces New Trustees
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The Compost Research & Education Foundation is thrilled to announce its most recent additions to the CREF 2025 Board. This marks an important milestone for the organization as it continues its mission to enhance the stature and practices of the composting industry by supporting scientific research, increasing awareness and educating practitioners and the public to advance environmentally and economically sustainable organics recycling. The new members bring a wealth of expertise and dedication, furthering CREF’s commitment to fostering innovation, collaboration, and leadership in the composting industry.
Newly Selected Trustees
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Sally Brown, Ph.D., School of Environmental and Forest Sciences at University of Washington
Sally Brown is a research professor at the University of Washington’s School of Environmental and Forest Sciences. Her academic journey began with a B.A. from Williams College, followed by an M.S. and Ph.D. in soil science from the University of Maryland. Sally’s research dives into the practical and environmental aspects of biosolids and compost use, focusing on everything from contamination risks to their role in green urban infrastructure and carbon balance.
A recognized leader in her field, Sally is a fellow and former board member of the Soil Science Society of America and has served on various prestigious committees, including the National Academy of Sciences. She’s also a prolific writer, penning a column for Biocycle Connect for nearly 20 years and has co-edited books on urban agriculture. Her passion for soil science is matched only by her commitment to making organic recycling a key part of sustainable urban living.
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Debra Darby, Tetra Tech
Debra Darby brings 18 years of expertise in organics to her role as a client manager at Tetra Tech. As the leader of the organics management initiative in Tetra Tech’s Solid Waste East region, Deb has become a Certified Composting Professional (CCP™) through the USCC. Her extensive experience includes implementing organics management infrastructure such as composting and anaerobic digestion systems.
With more than six years dedicated to zero waste planning and waste reduction, Deb has a knack for drawing out the best ideas from committees and stakeholders to craft actionable plans. Her 25 years in environmental marketing, combined with her strategic insight, have made her a trusted advisor in both the public and private sectors. Deb’s reputation as a leader in organics stems from her ability to balance technical know-how with innovative thinking.
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Tera Lewandowski, Ph.D., The Scotts Miracle-Gro Company
Tera Lewandowski is a senior scientist at the Scotts Miracle-Gro Company and has more than 10 years of expertise in advancing growing media products through her background in mycology, ecology, and forestry. She specializes in optimizing compost use for efficient and sustainable plant growth and plays a pivotal role in the company’s dynamic innovation initiatives.
Beyond her work at Scotts Miracle-Gro, Tera shares her knowledge through educational programs like Cultivate and podcast discussions on composting. She served previously as a CREF trustee from 2018-22 and has chaired the Standards & Practices Committee since 2020. Her dedication to integrating scientific research with practical applications continues to drive innovation in horticulture and sustainable agriculture.
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John Paul, Ph.D., P.Ag., Transform Compost Systems
John Paul has always been passionate about soil and the critical role of recycling organic matter and nutrients. Growing up on a dairy farm in British Columbia, Canada, he developed a deep appreciation for the land. After earning his Ph.D. in soil microbiology and biochemistry from the University of Guelph, he spent seven years as a waste management scientist for Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada. In 1998, he took the helm as president of Transform Compost Systems, where he designed composting systems of all sizes for various organic materials.
John’s expertise extends to consulting on compost process design, optimization and odor management. Over the years, he’s taught compost facility operators, sharing his knowledge through classes and the Compost Facility Operator Manual, which he co-authored. He’s grateful for the chance to use his experience to help others understand the value of recycling organic matter and nutrients, blending his love for science with his commitment to sustainability.
Our Thanks to Continuing Trustees
CREF wants to also express our deep appreciation for those trustees who continue to dedicate their time and leadership to the board. Their commitment and expertise help advance CREF’s mission of enhancing the composting industry through education and research.
Officers
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Trustees
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Recognizing Retiring Board Members
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Ginny Black
Ginny Black, who served CREF as both a board chair and trustee, has stepped down to better focus on composting leadership in Minnesota, where she also serves as the Minnesota Composting Council’s board chair. She will now be taking on an advisory position with CREF. Ginny guided CREF for over a decade and helped transform the organization with her leadership, dedication, and vision, establishing a strong foundation with a full-time executive director, staff, and impactful programs.
