Dorcas H. Franklin

Dorcas H. Franklin is a Professor in the Department of Crop & Soil Sciences at the University of Georgia's College of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences (CAES). Her research focuses on sustainable nutrient management, water quality, and agroecosystem resilience. She leads projects on nutrient movement in soil and landscapes, participatory programs with producers to improve soil and water health, and the development of decision tools for efficient nutrient use. Her work also addresses climate change impacts, including vulnerability assessments for phosphorus loss and strategies to enhance soil biodiversity.

Dr. Franklin’s research integrates spatial analysis of nutrient dynamics, geomorphic influences on watershed vulnerability, and innovative practices like cover cropping, strategic grazing, and GPS-based cattle management. She has contributed to the SERA 17 Phosphorus Management Workgroup and collaborates with farmers, educators, and researchers to balance environmental and agricultural productivity goals.

Her efforts include developing bio-inoculants to improve nutrient availability from manures, reducing nitrogen losses during composting, and designing mixed forage systems to enhance carbon sequestration and nutrient recycling in pastures.