URGENT UPDATE: Students at Chico State University are making significant strides in soil health improvement as they conduct vital soil tests at the university farm. On February 4, 2026, students Kaylee Mulhearn and Paige Flaig were immersed in their work, testing soil samples to establish optimal conditions for agricultural growth.
“This is the soil processing area, under the Center for Regenerative Agriculture and Resilient Systems,” Flaig stated. The team collaborates with local commodity producers to implement effective regenerative practices across California. Their goal? To enhance soil health while reducing reliance on synthetic materials.
The students performed intricate nutrient quality tests on various soil samples. Flaig explained, “We’re working with side-by-side comparisons and field analysis,” emphasizing the importance of measuring soil stability to understand its capacity to retain water and support biological communities.
“Just to further see the differences in soil health between regenerative practices and conventional practices,” Mulhearn added. Their testing includes carbon-nitrogen assessments and pH levels, with some samples sent to a lab in Montana for further analysis.
The implications of their research extend beyond the university farm. By utilizing natural processes, the students aim to help farmers enhance efficiency and lower costs associated with synthetic inputs. Flaig remarked, “We try and work with nature instead of against it.”
As these pioneering efforts unfold, the long-term benefits for local agriculture are immense. The students’ hands-on approach not only fosters environmental sustainability but also empowers farmers to thrive in an ever-evolving agricultural landscape.
Stay tuned for more developments as these students continue to push the boundaries of regenerative agriculture at Chico State University. This initiative highlights the urgent need for sustainable farming practices, reinforcing the critical connection between education and environmental stewardship.
