Farm Soil Microplastics Under Michigan Study
Upper Peninsula growers and organic produce buyers are seeing early research on plastics in farm soil.
Updated on Nov. 6, 2026 in Organic Food
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Northern Michigan University student Jacob Sommerville is testing farm soil in the Upper Peninsula for microplastics, working with local farmers and MSU Extension. Some research suggests plastic contamination in agricultural soils may be four to twenty times that of oceans, a comparison that makes the work relevant to growers and food buyers across Michigan.
Why it matters
Farmers use plastics such as mulch film in place of pesticides and herbicides, and Upper Peninsula growers add large amounts to soil to extend the season and get a good crop. Understanding whether these practices, including those used in organic production, add microplastics to food is central to the question of what reaches the table.
The work is a research study led by an NMU student testing farm soil for microplastics in collaboration with farmers and MSU Extension. The comparison of four to twenty times ocean levels comes from some research, and the final findings on whether organic techniques add microplastics to products are not yet reported.
The players
Jacob Sommerville
Sommerville is a Northern Michigan University student conducting soil testing for microplastics with Upper Peninsula farmers and MSU Extension.
James DeDecker
DeDecker is director of the MSU Upper Peninsula Research and Extension Center, a regional hub for farm research and grower support.
The details
Mulch film is commonly used in place of fertilizer to grow organic products, and it is one of several sources of microplastics in soil. Other contributors include some fertilizers, wastewater, and synthetic laundry fabrics. Biodegradable alternatives, such as starch-based fiber, films, or sheeting, do not hold up in the Upper Peninsula's conditions, which is part of why the testing matters.
Timeline
Article on the microplastics research in Upper Peninsula soil was published November 6, 2026.
Health Landscape
Concern about plastics in agriculture is growing alongside the broader question of how contaminants move from soil into food. Researchers are now testing regional farm soils directly to measure how much plastic accumulates and where it comes from.
If you buy organic or locally grown produce, this research is a reason to follow what is learned about plastics in soil and food. Consider raising questions about growing practices with your doctor if you have concerns about dietary exposures.
The takeaway
Plastic contamination in farm soil is an open research question, and testing is only beginning in regions like the Upper Peninsula. Readers who want to limit exposures can ask their doctor about dietary concerns and keep an eye on results as the study reports its findings.
Further reading
For broader context on how growing methods shape what ends up on the plate, explore Organic Food coverage.
Source note: This article includes information reported by Uppermichiganssource.
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