Soil health is defined by the USDA NRCS as the continued capacity of a soil to function as a vital living ecosystem that sustains plants, animals and humans. These functions include maintaining plant productivity, regulating and partitioning water, filtering and buffering against pollutants, and storing and cycling nutrients.
Soil health as we know it depends on management and generally boils down to organic matter and porosity, two physical properties that are highly dependent on soil texture. When we have higher organic matter we have, greater water infiltration, lower bulk density, higher EC (Electro Conductivity), higher respiration, greater soil nitrogen, greater aggregate stability, more earthworms and more soil microbes.
To improve soil health farmers should consider implementing a practice or combination of practices that depend on soil texture, soil health status, and constraints of their farming system. The practices include minimizing disturbance, maximize time with living roots, keep the soil covered, and diversifying rotations.
News
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Farmers facing isolation – stay connected, it’s good for you
Published on May 1, 2020
The inherent nature of the agricultural occupation is independent. Isolation is often linked to impacts on mental health and loss of life by suicide.
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Farm resilience starts with a solid financial foundation
Published on April 30, 2020
Handling low profits means you need to manage the financial risks affecting your operation.
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Farm safety: COVID-19 health screening requirements for essential employees
Published on April 29, 2020
New health screening requirements for essential employees will help keep our farms safe and ensure that they can keep running during this pandemic.
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Field Crops Virtual Breakfast: Sharpening the pencil on the 2020 nutrient budget
Published on April 29, 2020
Join the Field Crops Virtual Breakfast on May 7 to discuss soil fertility issues with finances in mind with Kurt Steinke.
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How do I get a soil test kit when offices are closed?
Published on April 23, 2020
Online home lawn and garden soil test kits are still available through Michigan State University Extension.
