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National Programs
Soil Resource Management
Program Summary:
Program Rationale |
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The thin layer of soil at the surface of the earth functions as the central
resource to sustain life. Soil management determines plant productivity which in
turn supports animal productivity. Soils also remove impurities to benefit water
and air quality. It is imperative that a balance be reached between the
short-term use of the soil and long-term sustainability of this critical
resource. Protecting, preserving and enhancing the soil resource is a key
element of this National Program. Soil management practices need to be developed
to overcome limitations to productivity while maintaining or enhancing
environmental quality. Tools need to be developed to assess the overall quality
of a soil to determine the effectiveness and sustainability of soil management
practices. An overall understanding of physical, chemical and biological
properties and processes will allow management of the soil resource to ensure
sustainable food, feed and fiber production throughout the nation and the
world.
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Last Modified: 05/14/2001
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