Description

This extensive community service project focused on assessing and mitigating the environmental and health impacts associated with conventional agricultural practices in our region. Students initiated the study by conducting comprehensive field surveys with local farmers to map the typical usage patterns and volumes of synthetic pesticides and high-intensity chemical fertilizers. The initial research phase involved creating detailed demographic profiles of chemical usage, identifying the most commonly targeted pests and weeds, and documenting the frequency of application. The core investigative phase involved rigorous soil sampling and subsequent laboratory testing across various farm plots distinguished by their crop type and history of chemical inputs. Students utilized specialized testing kits and external lab partnerships to determine existing soil pH, macro-nutrient levels (Nitrogen, Phosphorus, Potassium), and the overall organic matter content. A critical comparative component was investigating the practical efficacy and ecological footprint of synthetic fertilizers versus sustainable, locally sourced organic alternatives, such as green manure and vermicompost. Furthermore, the project documented the occupational health risks farmers face when handling potent insecticides and herbicides without adequate personal protective equipment. Based on the empirical data collected, the student team developed accessible educational pamphlets and hosted a series of workshops for local farming cooperatives. These outreach sessions emphasized the principles of Integrated Pest Management (IPM), proper handling and disposal techniques for chemical containers, and the long-term benefits of gradually transitioning to bio-fertilizers to improve soil biodiversity. A significant achievement was the successful implementation of a pilot program on five small farms, demonstrating how precision fertilizer application, informed by targeted soil test results, could reduce input costs by an average of 15% while successfully maintaining crop yield. The project’s sustained effort aims to foster a healthier local ecosystem and promote economically viable, low-chemical farming methods within the community.