top of page

Research Summary: "A minimum suite of soil health indicators for North American agriculture"

Derek Hilfiker

Bagnall, D. K., Rieke, E. L., Morgan, C. L. S., Liptzin, D. L., Cappellazzi, S. B., & Honeycutt, W. (2023). A minimum suite of soil health indicators for north american agriculture. Soil Security, 10 p.100084 https://doi.org/10.1016/j.soisec.2023.100084


In the paper entitled “A minimum suite of soil health indicators for North American agriculture”, the authors presented a need for effective soil health indicators to be identified so producers can accurately track how their management practices are affecting their soil’s health. To help fulfill this need, the authors tested 30 indicators across 124 long-term agricultural research sites in North America. Indicators were chosen if they reflected soil health, were responsive to management practices across North America, are applicable at scale, and do not measure the same thing a more direct indicator measures. These criteria were chosen to enable scaling of accurate indicators in a cost-effective way on a continental scale.

After filtering the 30 tested indicators through the four criteria points, the authors presented soil organic carbon, carbon mineralization after 24 hours, and aggregate stability as universal soil health indicators for use in North America. These indicators can give producers quantitative information on how their management practices are affecting soil health over time. If choosing to utilize these indicators, soil should be sampled during the same time of year under similar temperatures and moisture conditions. This is due to these factors causing changes in indicator values, particularly carbon mineralization. Furthermore, the same lab should be used each time samples are submitted as different labs can have variable results. If the same lab is not able to be used again, ensure that the new lab utilizes the same methods as the previous lab, otherwise the results will not be comparable. While costs will vary by locality and lab, running these three tests should cost approximately $50 per sample. If used correctly, these tests can give producers insight into how their practices affect soil health over time.



23 Comments


Looking for the best hotel in Yercaud? Dhivya Shanthi Retreat is a peaceful hillside getaway offering breathtaking views, cozy accommodations, and a relaxing ambiance. Whether you're traveling with family, as a couple, or solo, this hotel provides comfortable rooms, home-cooked meals, and activities like nature walks and campfires. Surrounded by lush greenery, it’s the perfect destination for a refreshing escape from city life. Enjoy warm hospitality and a rejuvenating stay in Yercaud.

Like

Accounting is the backbone of any business, accounting providing essential insights into a company’s financial health. For beginners, understanding accounting fundamentals is crucial to managing finances, making informed business decisions, and ensuring regulatory compliance. This comprehensive guide explores key concepts such as the accounting equation, financial statements, and double-entry bookkeeping, all foundational elements in the world of accounting.

Like

The AUS Design Ivory is a sophisticated and elegant choice for those seeking a neutral yet stylish aesthetic. With its soft ivory tone, it complements a variety of interior styles, from modern minimalism to classic elegance. The design emphasizes subtle aus design ivory texture and refined details, making it a versatile option for flooring, countertops, or wall surfaces. Its durability and ease of maintenance make it suitable for both residential and commercial spaces. Whether used as a standalone feature or paired with contrasting elements, AUS Design Ivory enhances the ambiance with a sense of warmth and timeless charm.

Like

uphire
uphire
Feb 11

The jlg 600aj is a versatile and reliable articulating boom lift designed for a wide range of elevated work applications. With a maximum platform height of 60 feet and a horizontal reach of 39 feet, it provides exceptional access to hard-to-reach areas, making it ideal for construction, maintenance, and industrial tasks. The articulating arm allows for precise positioning, while the smooth, proportional controls enhance operator safety and productivity.

Like

Gurgaon is home to some of the Ayurvedic doctors in gurgaon who specialize in holistic healing and natural therapies. Ayurveda treats the body as a whole, ensuring long-term wellness instead of just symptom relief. Many Ayurvedic clinics in Gurgaon offer treatments for skin disorders, weight management, hair care, and immunity boosting. If you’re struggling with stress or lifestyle diseases, an expert Ayurvedic doctor can guide you with herbal solutions and daily wellness practices.

Like

© 2024 by The Virginia Soil Health Coalition

VCE_horizontal-rgb-white.png
bottom of page