Soil Organic Matter

Soil Conditioning Index

The Soil Conditioning Index (SCI) predicts the consequences of cropping systems and tillage practices on soil organic matter in a field.  Soil organic matter is a primary indicator of soil quality and carbon sequestration. A positive SCI indicates a cropping system that, if continued, is likely to result in increasing levels of soil organic matter.

The SCI is embedded in RUSLE2.  It has three main components including the amount of organic material returned to or removed from the soil, the effects of tillage and field operations on organic matter decomposition, and the effect of predicted soil erosion associated with the management system.  See Section 508 of the NRCS National Agronomy Manual for more information.

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Using SCI to Assess Management Effects on Soil Carbon (PPT, 5.7MB)

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