Perceived Occupational Benefits and Hazards of Soil Health Practices Among Colorado Farmers and Ranchers: A Qualitative Study

Soil health practices are increasingly promoted through sustainable agricultural programs to improve environmental outcomes, yet little is known about how these practices impact the occupational health of farmers and ranchers who implement them. This qualitative study examined perceived occupational benefits and hazards of soil health practices among Colorado farmers and ranchers. Semi-structured interviews with 15 Colorado farmers and ranchers were conducted between October 2024 and January 2025 and then analyzed using thematic analysis. Six themes were identified: perceived physical benefits, psychosocial benefits, physical hazards, psychosocial hazards, and health and safety practices, and One Health perspectives of the impacts of soil health. Participants described reduced chemical exposure, increased physical activity, and improved mental health, creativity, connection to nature, and community as perceived benefits. Perceived physical hazards included heat stress, respiratory exposure to mold from organic mulching materials, and musculoskeletal strain. Perceived psychosocial hazards included social isolation, financial uncertainty, and a sense of insufficient collective action. Health and safety practices used were largely informal, and personal protective equipment use was limited. Participants described their health as intertwined with the health of the land and living systems around them, reflecting a One Health orientation. Findings suggest that soil health practices may alter occupational health risk in ways that warrant further investigation and tailored safety guidance and programmatic support.