Abstract
Heavy metals are natural components of the environment and can be relatively non-impactful in low concentrations. However, high concentrations of heavy metal toxicity can result in air, water, and soil contamination that adversely impacts environmental, human, and wildlife health. This study focuses on detecting the presence of heavy metals in soil, Loblolly Pine tree bark, and wood core samples from sites near a landfill in the Tallassee, Alabama, community and a post-agricultural site in Tuskegee, Alabama. It has been hypothesized that heavy metals are present in soil, tree bark, and the tree’s wood core from sampling sites. Samples were taken in a randomized block design and analyzed by an Inductively Coupled Plasma Mass Spectrometry, which detected three different heavy metals at both sites in the soil and wood core. This research offers a more comprehensive understanding of the effectiveness of soil and wood as bio-monitors for heavy metal accumulation.
Recommended Citation
Wilson, Alicia R.; Smith, Brianna; Miller, LaTricia; and Farid, Rashidah
(2026)
"Comparison of Heavy Metal Accumulation in Soil and Wood Core Within Tallassee and Tuskegee, Alabama,"
Professional Agricultural Workers Journal:
Vol. 10:
No.
1, 7.
Available at:
https://tuspubs.tuskegee.edu/pawj/vol10/iss1/7