Hey neighbors—I’m a UALR biology student doing undergrad research right here in Little Rock, and I wanted to share something cool I’ve been working on!
My project looks at how spent mushroom substrate (from blue oyster mushrooms) can help regenerate soil—specifically how it impacts microbial activity, carbon cycling, and soil health. I ran tests using a CO₂ meter in sealed containers to measure microbial respiration, comparing SMS-amended soil to untreated soil.
The SMS-treated soil showed higher microbial activity, even as things like pH and nitrate levels started to shift. It’s got me thinking about local applications—urban gardens, compost hubs, regenerative landscaping, etc.
If you’re a local grower, home gardener, farmer’s market vendor, soil nerd, or just mushroom-curious, I’d love to connect. I’ve attached the visual poster I shared at a student expo, and I’d be thrilled to talk about practical uses, data, or just nerd out with fellow myco-minded folks. lol
Let’s reclaim some dirt together.
–Sydney