Ogunleye SASH Lab

The Ogunleye SASH lab.

The Ogunleye-Sustainable Agriculture and Soil Health (SASH) Laboratory generates innovative, science-based solutions that improve soil health and advance sustainable agricultural systems. Through interdisciplinary research, education, and community engagement, we seek to develop and promote management practices that enhance soil function, optimize crop and forage production, conserve natural resources, and build resilient agroecosystems. We are committed to mentoring future scientists, including K-12 students, and to collaborating with producers, researchers, and stakeholders to address agricultural challenges and support a more sustainable future.

A brief history

The Sustainable Agriculture and Soil Health (SASH) Laboratory was established by Dr. Anu Ogunleye at the Department of Agriculture, Food Science, and Kinesiology at Eastern New Mexico University in 2025 to advance research on sustainable agricultural systems and soil health in semi-arid environments. The lab was founded with the vision of developing science-based management practices that improve soil function, enhance crop and forage productivity, and promote long-term environmental sustainability.

Since its establishment, the Ogunleye, SASH Lab has focused on understanding how agricultural practices, including cover cropping, crop diversification, forage systems, and soil management strategies, affect soil health, nutrient cycling, and ecosystem resilience. Through research, student training, and collaboration with producers and research partners, the lab continues to contribute to sustainable agriculture while preparing the next generation of scientists to address emerging agricultural challenges.

The Ogunleye SASH Lab is committed to advancing food security within the local community. In 2025, Dr. Anu Ogunleye, through one of her initiatives (Feed the Hounds), distributed more than 20,000 pounds of organically grown produce to the Eastern New Mexico University community and neighboring communities at no cost, demonstrating the lab's commitment to translating research into meaningful community impact. Dr. Ogunleye launched the Agriculture Family Fun Day in May, 2026. This event brought in families and individuals who participated in fun games and hands-on learning. Dr. Ogunleye, who is also an Adjunct Professor at Clovis Community College, also launched the Green Thumb Science Club in June, 2026.

Dr. Anu Ogunleye with produce available for free pickup at the GSSC area, ENMU.

Organic produce made available for free pickup at the GSSC area, ENMU.

ENMU's President's visit to the produce pick-up location with ENMU faculty members and students.

Where we are today

The Ogunleye, SASH lab has made significant strides in advancing Food security, sustainable agriculture research, student training, and community engagement. The lab has contributed to the development of science-based solutions that improve soil health, strengthen agricultural resilience, and support sustainable food systems in semi-arid environments through published manuscripts and student research presentations. One of our greatest accomplishments has been creating meaningful opportunities for students to engage in hands-on agricultural research in the greenhouse and on the field. The SASH Lab provides students with experiences in field experimentation, soil health assessment, data collection, and scientific communication, preparing the next generation of agricultural scientists and leaders.

Additional accomplishments include the Feed the Hounds Initiative, which provided community support by distributing more than 20,000 pounds of organically grown produce to ENMU students, faculty, staff, and surrounding communities. The SASH Lab has also expanded agricultural outreach through the Agriculture Family Fun Day, with about 50 people in attendance, including children. Through Outdoor Agricultural Education, the lab engaged approximately 350 students across four counties (Dora, Floyd, Elida, and Roosevelt), providing hands-on learning experiences in agriculture and sustainability.

We are most proud of our ability to bridge research, education, community engagement, and service.