About Us

Soil Chemistry and Fertility

The Lewis and Burke Labs, based at the Texas A&M AgriLife Research Center in Lubbock, TX, are dedicated to advancing soil chemistry and fertility research in the highly productive agricultural region of the Southern High Plains. Our work focuses on optimizing semi-arid agroecosystems to enhance soil health and promote sustainable agricultural production.

A key strength of our program is our close collaboration with agricultural producers through on-farm sampling and field-based research. This hands-on approach allows us to see our findings applied in real-world settings, ensuring immediate and meaningful contributions to Texas agriculture.

The Lewis Lab, led by Dr. Katie Lewis, and the Burke Lab, led by Dr. Joseph Burke, are supported by a dynamic team of researchers, graduate students, technicians, and student workers. We take pride in fostering a diverse and innovative research environment, where graduate students are encouraged to explore unique projects that contribute to the advancement of soil science and sustainable farming practices.

Research Priorities

Soil Health

The Natural Resource Conservation Service defines soil health as “the continued capacity of a soil to function as a vital living ecosystem that supports plants, animals, and humans.” Our research focuses on the physical, chemical, and biological components of soil health to sustainably enhance agricultural productivity across semi-arid landscapes.

Soil Carbon & Nitrogen Dynamics

As the climate changes, understanding agriculture’s role in biogeochemical processes is essential. We study how agroecosystems influence carbon and nitrogen cycling to develop strategies that improve nutrient efficiency and long-term soil sustainability.

Regenerative Agriculture

Regenerative agriculture and conservation management are critical for the long-term viability of production agriculture in the Texas Southern High Plains. Our research aims to optimize agroecosystems in semi-arid environments by integrating cropping systems, conservation practices, and livestock management.

Industry Trials

Collaborating closely with industry partners, we support the development and testing of innovative agricultural products. Our goal is to help Texas producers remain resilient and productive stewards of the land through science-driven solutions.

Equipment

  • Elementar - Vario TOC Cube (Solids)

  • Elementar - Vario TOC Cube (Liquids)

  • Gasmet GT5000 Terra

  • Gasmet DX4040 FTIR Gas Analyzer

  • CPN 503 Neutron Probe

  • FIA-Lab flow injection analyzer

  • Multiple incubators, ovens, and muffle furnace

  • DJI Phantom 4 Pro RTK System-M/S & RGB

  • Videography equipment for data collection: digital single-lens reflex Canon EOS 5D Mark IV w/ DJI RONIN Gimbal Attachment, GoPro HERO9 (1), GoPro HERO6 (2), DJI Pocket 2, and DJI Mini Drones.

  • Individual computers with access to research software (SAS 9.4, ArcGIS, SigmaPlot V14.5, etc.)

  • Multiple state agency vehicles (trucks, SUVs, 4x4 utility vehicles)

  • Agricultural equipment (greenhouses, weather stations, tractors, cotton strippers, planter rigs, harvesters, etc.)

  • Access to research sites located across the state to include data spanning various soil types and environments (>1,000 acres)

Soil Health in the South Plains

Soil health research in the U.S. often focuses on temperate regions, yet farmers in semi-arid environments have been conservation pioneers since the Dust Bowl of the 1930s. We aim to document their stories, challenges, and successes in safeguarding soil resources while sustainably producing the fabric of our lives.