So I've been mulling a lot about whole use of ingredients and considering using every ounce of everything, to reduce waste and just be thoughtful. Have we ever thought of starting a composting program at Chaos? We could use worm bins, and put it inside and they almost sustain themselves. Now then what would we do with the compost and the remnants? I'm glad you asked. What if we outsources the compost and the "tea" to farms that could grow Chaos Specific Hops, or grains. That could even be another step towards a Chaos based brewery or taproom.
I have visions of grandeur for this and it might be out of the question, but what does it hurt to ask?
Hi Skyler,
If you really want to pursue your idea, I think it has some legs. We are already composing all the spent grains via our compsting company, the Resource Center. You can check out an artical on Ken below.
http://www.chicagomag.com/Chicago-Magazine/September-2004/Somebody-Give-This-Guy-a-Genius-Grant/
I'm actually not so sure what he does with the compost he creates at this point. They do operate a farm and formerly sold the compost. Ken is the kid of guy who loves collaboration, so if you want to give him a call and see if he has any interest I can pass on his contact info.
We would probably need to get some vacent land, or partner with him to get some land to grow hops, but it could be a fun thing to do.
As long as it's outside the brewhouse...