Soil health is crucial for maintaining environmental balance, particularly in agricultural systems that depend on soil for production. One pressing concern is nutrient runoff from landfills, lagoons, and agricultural areas into nearby water systems, contributing to water pollution and eutrophication. Swine lagoons, which manage animal waste, are a potential environmental risk. This study evaluates the soil health of a former swine lagoon at Oklahoma State University’s Student Farm, capped with 10–30 cm of soil and planted with sycamore and cottonwood trees for nutrient absorption. Despite remediation, concerns persist, as flagged by the Oklahoma Department of Environmental Quality (ODEQ). The lagoon measures 140 yards by 76 yards, covering 2.5 acres with two soil types: Teller loam and Easpur loam.

In 2023, nutrient levels were recorded in pounds per acre: sycamore tree plots had 5 pounds of nitrogen, 500 pounds of phosphorus, and 800 pounds of potassium, while cottonwood plots had 5 pounds of nitrogen, 300 pounds of phosphorus, and 600 pounds of potassium. Heavy metals were analyzed in parts per million, with results of 45 ppm for iron, 10 ppm for zinc, 1 ppm for boron, and 2 ppm for copper. This data will serve as a baseline for ongoing testing to assess the effectiveness of capping and tree planting in preventing nutrient runoff. This study employs grid-based sampling, taking 20 samples from an 8-square grid, ensuring a 6-inch depth of soil. These samples will be analyzed for mineral levels and other indicators of soil health. Findings will guide best practices for maintaining soil health in former waste treatment areas and assess the lagoon’s environmental impact.

The purpose of this study is to contribute to the broader conversation on soil conservation in areas with a history of agricultural waste management. As soil is a finite resource, it is crucial to preserve land for sustainable production. Future goals include continuous monitoring of the lagoon site and implementing corrective measures if needed.