There are different types of soil, each with its own set of characteristics. Dig down deep into any soil, and you’ll see that it is made of layers, or horizons (O, A, E, B, C, R).

Climate has an important role in soil formation. Observing soils and soil profiles can give clues to past climates and weather cycles. Some climates have soils that are not as deep or fertile and require special management for preservation. Soil is an important part of the global carbon cycle.

diagnostic horizons of the U.S. Soil Taxonomy. Designa - tions of genetic horizons express a qualitative judgment (an interpretation derived from morphology and other soil properties) of pedogenesis believed to have taken place. Diagnostic horizons are quantitatively defined features used to differentiate between taxa in U.S. sys-tem of Soil ...

Soil scientists prepare the maps in the field using pits, core samples, or trenches to examine the soils. They outline the extent of different soils using aerial photography base maps that help identify landscape positions, landforms and vegetation patterns that are …

• understanding variability of soil properties―pH, electrical conductivity, nutrient levels, and salinity―and how they affect crop growth • site evaluation for specific end uses

Each soil type has unique characteris-tics that provide important clues about its history, formation and location of origin, such as color, texture and structure. For example, the color of a soil indicates its history as well as the compounds present in the soil. White or gray soil may contain lime or have been leeched, while black or gray

Healthy soil results in a more stable food supply, which results in a strong community. Farmers use many practices and technologies, including precise applications of fertilizer and irrigation, to ensure that soil is conserved for sustainable

The SSSA certification programs, Certified Professional Soil Scientist (CPSS) and Associate Professional Soil Scientist (APSS), set standards for knowledge, skills, and conduct that define the professions of soil science and soil classification.

their design. Soil maps are created by soil scientists and present information such as: • the slope of the land surface; • soil biological, chemical, and physical properties; and, • potential for water runoff, drainage, or storage. Soil maps are available for public access from the USDA Natural Resource Conservation Service at the Web Soil

Glossary comprising of terms related to basic and applied soil science. Edited by the Soil Science Society of America (SSSA). Also available as MSWord dictionary file. (Free download.)