Advancing soil health, nutrient management, and sustainable agriculture through science and innovation
Building a Soil Health Database for Florida Ranchlands
Supported by the Florida Cattle Enhancement Board, this project established a statewide soil health database for Florida pasture systems. By evaluating biological and chemical soil health indicators across diverse ranchlands, the project identified key factors influencing soil function and developed benchmarks to support sustainable grazing management, future research, and rapid soil health assessment tools.
Statewide Soil Health Benchmark
Collected and analyzed soil samples from ranchlands across Florida to establish baseline values for biological and chemical soil health indicators.
Rapid Soil health Diagnostics
Evaluated the potential of mid-infrared spectroscopy and machine learning to provide faster and more cost-effective soil health assessments.
Management Matters
Results showed that grazing management strongly influences soil health indicators, highlighting opportunities to improve soil function and long-term sustainability.
Mid-Infrared Spectroscopy for Soil Health Assessment.
This project explores the use of mid-infrared diffuse reflectance spectroscopy (Mid-DRIFTS) and machine learning to rapidly predict biological, chemical, and physical soil health indicators, reducing the need for expensive laboratory analyses.
Advancing Soil Science Through Research, Collaboration, and Education.
Through research projects, student mentorship, teaching, and stakeholder engagement, my work aims to improve soil health, support sustainable agriculture, and translate scientific discoveries into practical solutions for producers, researchers, and land managers.