Soils Ecostation

Soils are defined as the unconsolidated organic and mineral matter on the surface of the earth that is capable of supporting plants. The upper limit of the soil is air or shallow water, the lower limit is either bedrock or the limit of biological activity – typically described to a depth of 2 meters or 6 feet. Most of us recognize the importance of soils within the context of agriculture and food production. However, soils influence many aspects of our environment, and it is important to understand how soils relate to water infiltration, forest production, structural stability, water quality, climate change, and so much more.

The object of the soils section is to provide the students with an understanding of the concepts of soil variability, suitability, limitations, and behavior as an integral part of ecosystems and the ability to apply this knowledge toward economically sound land management.

Because soil science can cover so many topics including soil biology, soil physics, soil chemistry, soil taxonomy, soil fertility, and soil geomorphology, this presentation narrows the topics down to those expected to be covered in the Massachusetts Envirothon Competition.

Massachusetts Envirothon Soils Overview Powerpoint

Soils Ecostation Manual

Topics Covered and Relevant Resources:

Soils and Climate Change
https://www.soils.org/files/sssa/iys/november-soils-overview.pdf

Soils play a crucial role in a changing climate through multiple avenues. Soil act as both a carbon sink and as a source- storing more carbon than the atmosphere and all plant life combined.    

High functioning soils can act as a buffer against some of the impacts of climate change as they can absorb and retain water – making it available to plants and reducing the effects of flooding and erosion. Maintaining soils with high infiltration and water holding capacity is vital to supporting flood control and food security in the future.

Climate change can also impact soil. Temperature changes can melt permanently frozen soils, releasing greenhouse gases to the environment. More intense rainfall can also increase soil erosion. Soil degradation through intensive land use such as deforestation, certain types of agriculture, uncontrolled development, and contamination may cause soil erosion, compaction, increased runoff, and pollution.

Maintaining well-functioning soils is a key to a resilient world in the face of a changing
climate.

Other Resources: