UPDATE: Students at Chico State University are making urgent strides in improving soil health through groundbreaking research at the university farm. On February 4, 2026, students Kaylee Mulhearn and Paige Flaig conducted intricate soil tests aimed at enhancing natural growth conditions, a critical initiative for sustainable agriculture.
In a hands-on effort to revolutionize farming practices, the duo operates under the Center for Regenerative Agriculture and Resilient Systems. “We partner with producers across the state to implement regenerative practices,” Flaig stated, highlighting the importance of sustainable techniques in modern agriculture.
The students are currently testing various soil samples for nutrient qualities, employing side-by-side comparisons and field analyses. “We collect forage samples for nutritive qualities and measure soil stability,” Flaig explained. This data is crucial for determining the soil’s ability to retain water and support a healthy biological community, key indicators of overall soil health.
The team also performs carbon-nitrogen testing and sends samples to a lab in Montana to analyze pH levels. This multifaceted approach contrasts regenerative practices with conventional farming methods, offering valuable insights that could reshape agricultural strategies in California and beyond.
Mulhearn emphasized the long-term goal: “We aim to help farmers be more efficient by using natural processes, reducing the need for synthetic materials.” This commitment to sustainability not only benefits farmers but also contributes to healthier ecosystems.
This urgent initiative comes at a time when agricultural practices are increasingly scrutinized for their environmental impact. By working with nature rather than against it, Chico State students are leading the charge in creating sustainable farming solutions.
As these developments unfold, the agricultural community and environmental advocates alike are watching closely. The work being done at the Chico State University Farm could set a new standard for farming practices in the Golden State and beyond.
Stay tuned for further updates as these students continue their vital research, potentially transforming the way we approach soil health and sustainable agriculture.
