SOIL SCIENCE

Soil Scientists today are concerned with the effects of soil management on the total environment. Land use, type of tillage, irrigation practices, and application of pesticides and fertilizers can have far-reaching effects on soil and water quality and the content of “greenhouse” gases in the atmosphere. The need for research on these effects has not lessened the importance of continued research to maintain the capacity of soils for producing food and fiber. Soils must be protected against degradation by erosion, salinity, depletion of fertility, or accumulation of contaminants from various sources. Maintaining the quality of our soil, water, and air resources to meet the requirements of future generations constitutes the environmental challenge to soil scientists.