Welcome to the University of Victoria EcoSoil Lab, where we combine inter-disciplinary research with practical soil health solutions to advance agricultural management and ecosystem resilience. Our lab is dedicated to research collaborations that consider the role of soil biology and agricultural activities, through extension, research and analytical services.
We specialize in the functional measurement of soil biology, using teabag litter decomposition and other chemical and physical assessments. Our team works closely with local farmers, agricultural organizations, and other labs to deliver insights that enhance productivity and sustainability across diverse production systems and climates.
The EcoSoil Lab is equipped to collect soil samples and conduct a suite of biological, chemical and physical soil assessments, providing standardized teabag litter decomposition kits, and conducting research using physical and liquid biological amendments (compost, compost extract, compost tea). We routinely partner with external labs to conduct detailed soil analyses on behalf of partners. From leveraging the intricate relationships between soil and crops to informing the decision-making process catalyzing soil-supportive management practices, our goal is to promote resilient ecosystems that benefit natural and human systems.
I and my students use quantitative analyses of food and wine production systems to reveal linkages between ecological and social sustainability, “quality”, and the primacy of place … “Ecogastronomy”
Dr. John Volpe
