This study explored the application of compost onto a small loblolly pine tree forest in northeast Texas. Its purpose was to determine if the application of various amounts of compost would provide for accelerated rates of growth for the trees. Soil parameters were also monitored. A total of 270 trees were planted and studied in a northeast Texas forest ecosystem. Compost rates of 5, 25, and 50 tons per acre with either soil or compost backfill were utilized and compared to a control without compost. Nonparametric and parametric ANOVA and Chi-Square tests were utilized. The results indicated that greater application rates retained greater moisture and higher pH levels in the soil. Compost applications also yielded a greater survival rate as well as larger tree height and diameter when compared to the control. The 25 ton/acre application backfilled in native soil achieved the greatest average in height and diameter when compared to the averages for the control plot. Greater growth differences for the 25S application can be attributed to additional nutrients coupled with a stable pH consistent with native soil acidity.

This work explores potential distortions created by race and ethnicity on the visualization, interpretation, and understanding of the spatial distribution of suicide in the United States. Due to radically different suicide rates among racial/ethnic groups, traditional crude or age-adjusted rates may introduce statistical confounding in both linear and spatial models. Using correlation, choropleth mapping, hot spot analysis, and location-allocation modeling, this work shows how traditional methods of health system planning may unintentionally overlook elevated risk in minority-dominated areas like inner cities, the Texas/Mexico border region, and the Deep South. The final chapter introduces a simulation protocol for examining potential distortions in datasets to identify spatial and non-spatial distortions created by the underlying population composition. Methodologically, this dissertation contributes to the discourse on place context versus population composition. More generally, this research points to potential hazards to creating a more inclusive and equitable healthcare system.