Helping People Understand Soils Ten Key Messages Natural Resources Conservation Service Helping People Help the Land Soil is a Fundamental Part of the Ecosystem The living systems occurring above and below the ground surface are determined by the properties of the soil. We often ignore the soil because it is hard to observe. The Study of Soil (Pedology) is a Unique Discipline Soil—a natural body of solids, liquid, and gases,with either horizons, or layers or the ability tosupport rooted plants Unique physical, chemical, and biological properties color texture structure consistence roots pores other features Soil Survey is a Scientifically-Based Inventory A soil survey includes maps, descriptions, properties, climate, and interpretations. There are about 3000 soil survey areas in the United States. These are excellent sources of information on this resource. Soils Perform Several Vital Functions Sustaining plant and animal life below and above the surface Regulating and partitioning water and solute flow Filtering, buffering, degrading, immobilizing, and detoxifying Storing and cycling nutrients Providing support to structures Soils Are Variable But in Predictable Locations There are 23,000 soil series in various combinations with different slopes and surface textures. Soil Forming Factors: Parent Material Climate Living Organisms Topography Time Scientific Names for Soils Should Be Used • • • • Like plants and animals, soils are classified The system is called Soil Taxonomy The highest level is the soil order (12) The lowest level is the soil series, often a place name Soil Studies Can Be Incorporated Into Other Studies Science ecology, biology, chemistry Social Studies world trade, land use Mathematics soil loss over one hectare History settlement of the U.S., dust bowl Art soil crayons, acrylic paints Consider the Soil First to Minimize Risk Soils Are Alive Organism Types bacteria fungi protozoa nematodes arthropods earthworms Roles & Benefits decomposition release nutrients create pores stabilize soils Soil Management Affects Soil Properties Soil Quality The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) prohibits discrimination in all its programs and activities on the basis of race, color, national origin, age, disability, and where applicable, sex, marital status, familial status, parental status, religion, sexual orientation, genetic information, political beliefs, reprisal, or because all or a part of an individual's income is derived from any public assistance program. (Not all prohibited bases apply to all programs.) Persons with disabilities who require alternative means for communication of program information (Braille, large print, audiotape, etc.) should contact USDA's TARGET Center at (202) 720-2600 (voice and TDD). To file a complaint of discrimination write to USDA, Director, Office of Civil Rights, 1400 Independence Avenue, S.W., Washington, D.C. 20250-9410 or call (800) 795-3272 (voice) or (202) 720-6382 (TDD).