Mary C Savin

Dr. Mary C. Savin serves as the Department Head of Horticulture and Professor of Microbial Ecology at the University of Arkansas, within the Dale Bumpers College of Agricultural, Food and Life Sciences. She also holds roles as Director of the Arkansas Agricultural Experiment Station (DREX) and previously served as Assistant Director of the Experiment Station, co-director of the Wally Cordes Teaching and Faculty Support Center, and Faculty Senate Chair. Her research focuses on microbial ecology, soil biology, and ecosystem responses to management practices in terrestrial and aquatic environments. She is a Qualified Environmental Professional (QEP) and emphasizes sustainable agriculture, biogeochemical cycles, and environmental stewardship.

Dr. Savin earned her Ph.D. (1999), M.S. (1995), and B.S. (1991) in Biological Sciences, Natural Resources, and Biology from the University of Rhode Island and University of Notre Dame. Her educational background underscores expertise in ecological and environmental systems.

Her research interests include soil health, nutrient dynamics, and the impacts of agricultural practices on microbial communities. Specific projects address cover crops, poultry litter management, antibiotic resistance genes, and the ecological roles of earthworms. She has contributed to over 100 peer-reviewed articles since 2020, focusing on topics such as compost utilization, herbicide degradation, nitrogen cycling, and sustainable farming systems.

• Scientific Awards: Member of the University of Arkansas Teaching Academy

Dr. Savin’s work bridges laboratory and field studies, with a focus on practical applications for Arkansas agriculture. She collaborates with extension services to translate research into actionable strategies for farmers and environmental managers. Her current initiatives include optimizing soil health metrics and mitigating environmental impacts of livestock waste.

Laboratory and fieldwork are conducted through the Department of Horticulture and Arkansas Agricultural Experiment Station, with ongoing projects in the Mid-Southern U.S. and collaboration with regional stakeholders.