Agricultural soil science

Soil is investigated in relation to and as integral part of terrestrial ecosystems but is also recognized as a manageable natural resource.

Soil degradation such as erosion, compaction, lowered fertility, and contamination continue to be serious concerns.

Although maximizing plant (and thus animal) production is a valid goal, sometimes it may come at high cost which can be readily evident (e.g. massive crop disease stemming from monoculture) or long-term (e.g. impact of chemical fertilizers and pesticides on human health).

An agricultural soil scientist may come up with a plan that can maximize production using sustainable methods and solutions, and in order to do that they must look into a number of science fields including agricultural science, physics, chemistry, biology, meteorology and geology.

They also serve as air tank to supply oxygen to plant roots and other living beings in the soil.

For example, a technique called contour plowing may be used to prevent soil erosion and conserve rainfall.

Regenerative agriculture practices can be used to address these challenges and rebuild soil health.

Many work in the developed world as farm advisors, agricultural experiment stations, federal, state or local government agencies, industrial firms, or universities.