A research project of The Lighthouse

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The Biodiversity Comparison Plots are one of the first active initiatives of The Lighthouse, exploring how different soil-care practices influence plant health, soil biology, insects, and overall ecological resilience.

This small-scale research project uses three identical plots, each planted with the same indicator species. By observing how the plants respond under different conditions, we can “read” the soil and understand what it needs to regenerate.

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Why Comparison Plots?

Understanding soil health is the foundation of all regenerative work. Plants give us clues about compaction, nutrient balance, water retention, and biological activity. By creating three side-by-side environments, we can clearly see how soil responds to different kinds of care.

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The Three Plots

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1. Tilled Soil (Conventional Disturbance)

Represents the traditional approach where soil is turned and loosened before planting. This plot helps us observe how disturbance impacts moisture loss, erosion, and early plant growth.

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2. Undisturbed Soil (Low-Intervention Regenerative Practice)

Seeds are planted directly into the soil without mechanical disturbance. This maintains soil structure and microbial life, allowing us to observe how a natural, intact system supports plant resilience.

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3. Mulched Soil (Biodiversity-Focused Ecological Care)

A thick layer of organic mulch protects the soil, feeds microorganisms, and increases water retention. This plot demonstrates how soil thrives when covered and nourished.

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What We Are Measuring

Throughout the growing season, we will document:

• plant germination and growth

• insect activity and biodiversity

• changes in soil moisture and temperature

• visible soil structure differences

• indicator plant signals (root depth, leaf color, vigor)

• seasonal changes in each plot

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These observations will help shape future educational programs, community workshops, and regenerative practices at The Lighthouse’s long-term location.

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Follow the Project

We invite the public to follow along here on the website, Instagram and Linkedin as the plots evolve. Updates will include photos, videos, observations, and reflections on what the land teaches us.