Authors:

Joniyah Renee Alford

Date Created:

Not specified

Course Title:

Professor:

Not specified

About Paper:

Urban soils differ significantly from agricultural soils, shaped and often degraded due by factors such as the urban heat island effect and intensive development. With a large portion of the global population residing in urban environments, ensuring food security through urban agriculture requires fertile soils. The purpose of this study was to determine and evaluate the effects of common regenerative agricultural practices on urban soil health. This study focuses on two community gardens in Indianapolis, Indiana - one a large, multifaceted operation, and the other a smaller, experimental, and educational garden managed by one individual. Land adjacent to these sites and managed conventionally served as controls. The regenerative practices at the gardens were compared and soil samples were taken from each site at locations under similar management. These samples were then compared by analyzing soil health indicators such as compaction, nutrient availability, and biological composition. Compaction was measured using a penetrometer. Nitrogen, phosphorus, potassium, pH, electroconductivity, total dissolved solids (TDS), and the fungal-bacteria ratio were measured in each sample using probes, sensors, and testing kits. Soils treated with regenerative agricultural practices are expected to exhibit better health than those with conventional practices. Producing results that quantify the impact of regenerative agricultural practices could be utilized to educate and influence urban development sectors and communities in Indianapolis. Further research explores how these practices can be integrated into city planning, policy frameworks, and community-led initiatives to promote healthier, more resilient urban ecosystems. Keywords: Urban Soils; Soil Health; Agricultural Management

Source:

Purdue University / 2025

Topics:

No topics listed

Co-authors:

Joniyah Renee Alford