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The past and future of agricultural soil science: How do we maintain this important resource?
Agricultural soil science is the study of land conditions and their relevance to food and fiber production. This field is not only a branch of soil science but also has its place in the field of agronomy. Before the 19th century, agricultural soil science or edaphology was the only field of soil science. Early soil science focused solely on the agricultural potential of soil, a view that continues today.
Historical background
Agricultural soil science has always attracted attention since entering modern times. In the early 20th century, with environmental changes and increasing demands for agricultural production, the understanding of soil properties and its sustainable management gradually deepened.
Current status
Agricultural soil science now takes a holistic approach to the study of soil, emphasizing its role as an integral part of the Earth's ecosystem. Scientists analyze the chemical, physical, biological and mineralogical composition of soil in order to improve soil use efficiency and increase the yield of food and fiber crops. However, soil degradation, erosion, soil compaction, reduced soil fertility, and pollution remain important current issues.
Soil properties and variables
In agricultural soil science, some key soil variables include soil texture, aeration, and drainage. Each soil is classified according to its proportion of sand, silt, and clay. Good soil aeration is vital to plant root health. However, man-made farming practices, such as plowing, while beneficial to aeration, can also lead to soil compaction.
Sufficient moisture in the soil is the basis for plant growth, and lack of moisture will directly affect crop productivity.
Maintenance of soil fertility
Agricultural soil scientists continue to seek effective soil management methods to ensure sustainable productivity. They improve the soil's productivity by studying its structure, texture and testing it for key nutrients that plants need for growth, such as nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium. These nutrients may, in some cases, be replenished through fertilization.
Soil protection technology
To prevent soil erosion, agricultural soil scientists apply techniques such as contour farming to protect farmland productivity and reduce the erosive effects of wind and water. Additionally, recycling human and animal waste to make crops and managing the accumulation of chemical pesticides are current challenges.
The role of the agricultural soil scientist
Most agricultural soil scientists work in consulting, research, and education fields. They work in institutions such as farm consultants, agricultural experiment stations, government units, or universities. With the global emphasis on sustainable agriculture, the role of these experts has become increasingly important, as they need to find a balance between technology and the environment.
Future challenges
The core goal of soil science is to meet growing human needs for food and fiber while maintaining environmental stability and conserving resources for future generations.
Amidst challenges and opportunities, agricultural soil science still faces various tests, such as the intensification of soil degradation, the impact of environmental changes and the promotion of sustainable agricultural practices. With the advancement of science and technology and the improvement of people's environmental awareness, how will we protect and utilize this important resource?
