Meet Nick Boogades
Advancing Sustainable Cotton Production in the Texas High Plains
Nick Boogades is a fourth-year Ph.D. student at Texas A&M University whose research is helping improve the sustainability and resilience of cotton production systems in West Texas. Originally from Edgewater, Maryland, Nick developed a deep appreciation for the outdoors through fishing, sports, and time spent exploring natural resources. That early connection to the environment inspired his interest in soil science and agriculture.
Nick earned his B.S. in Environmental and Soil Sciences from the University of Tennessee in 2021, where he was involved in track and field, soil judging, and turfgrass research. He later completed his M.S. in Soil Science at Texas A&M University in 2023 before continuing into doctoral studies. Since relocating to Lubbock, Nick has become an active member of the community, serving as both a grant writer and board member for the nonprofit organization Seeds of Encouragement. His commitment to supporting local communities reflects the same passion for service that drives his research.
Today, Nick's research focuses on carbon cycling and greenhouse gas emissions in cotton production systems across the South Plains. He studies how management practices such as cover crops, crop rotation, and reduced tillage affect soil greenhouse gas emissions, soil organic carbon sequestration, and nutrient cycling. His work aims to identify practical strategies that can improve soil health while helping producers maintain productive and profitable operations.
As a member of the Lewis Lab, Nick enjoys conducting research throughout the High Plains and working directly with regional producers. These experiences have strengthened his understanding of the challenges facing agriculture in semi-arid environments and reinforced his commitment to developing solutions that support long-term sustainability.
Looking ahead, Nick plans to pursue industry-focused research after completing his Ph.D. While he anticipates relocating to North Carolina, he remains grateful for the experiences and relationships he has built in West Texas. No matter where his career takes him, Nick hopes to continue advocating for farmers and advancing agricultural systems that are both environmentally and economically resilient.
When he's not conducting research, Nick enjoys spending time outdoors and staying connected to the activities that first sparked his interest in environmental science and agriculture.
