Microbe Mama

Hi, I am Kathy, I affectionately refer to myself as "Microbe Mama" because I consider the beneficial soil microbes I raise to be my Cherished Babies. These incredible microorganisms play a crucial role in enhancing plant health, improving nutritional value, and making a significant contribution to environmental preservation.

My passion for cultivating beneficial soil microbes stems from growing up in an organic gardening family. Everything from lawn care and flower gardens, to the produce we ate. Having been an organic gardener my entire life, I encountered a setback in 2020 when I noticed a decline in plant vitality and experienced health issues after spreading my annual delivery of compost. Recognizing the issue, I promptly reported the problem to the Oregon Department of Agriculture, which conducted soil tests revealing a high concentration of persistent herbicides. Since I strictly followed organic practices and refrained from using any chemicals, the contamination must have originated from the compost I added in the Spring. Determined to restore myself and my soil to health, I delved into research during the COVID-19 pandemic and stumbled upon a couple of enlightening resources. I eagerly absorbed knowledge from Dr. Elaine Ingham’s Soil Food Web and Dan Kittredge, Director of the Bio Nutrient Food Association, for their truth of how soil and our food system actually functions.  I watched the eye-opening documentary Kiss The Ground on Netflix and when the moderator said "I won't give up if you don't give up", I decided not to give up. This newfound awareness shed light on the intricacies of our food production, global warming, and how I, on my modest property, could remediate the toxins, make a positive impact on climate change, all while growing wholesome and nutritionally dense food for me, my family, friends, and neighbors! You can too!!  

To expand my understanding and expertise, I enrolled in Dr. Elaine Inghams' Soil Food Web School, completed the Foundation and Lab Technician courses, and became a Certified Lab Technician.  Armed with a microscope and the invaluable insights gained from this education, I took swift action to remediate my property.  Within a single season, I witnessed the healing of my garden. This transformative experience solidified my commitment and fueled my passion for the profound importance of educating others and raising beneficial soil microbes as part of a thriving Soil Ecosystem.  I hold educational workshops, perform property assessments, build biologically complete compost piles, offer biologically complete compost, extract, and teas. As well as contracted with an urban farm for Demonstration and Research, and am starting a non-profit for Climate Action.  

In honor of my grandchildren, I am dedicating the rest of my life to the pursuit of clean, nutritionally dense food. This can only be achieved through the preservation and cultivation of beneficial soil microbes as part of an intact Soil Food Web. I am resolute in my mission to contribute towards a sustainable future, not only for their sake but for the benefit of generations to come.  Won't you please join me? 

Sincerely here to help you turn your dirt into soil.

Kathy Schreiber, MicrobeMama

Certified Lab Technician

Owner LSWB Labs