Title: Explain techniques associated with soil management.
Course: Introduction to Natural Resources and Ecology Systems (18504) > Section: Protecting the Environment

Explanation should include

- identifying the physical and chemical properties of soil
- describing how soil quality directly affects water quality, biodiversity, wildlife habitat, plant growth, and crop production
- explaining how to improve soil quality
- analyzing a plot of land to determine which soil management techniques would be most applicable
- devising a soil management plan to minimize erosion and maximize biodiversity, plant productivity, and the formation of topsoil
- describing how maintenance and enhancement of soil quality maintains maximum efficiency in crop productivity over time by enhancing nutrient cycling and encouraging site-specific application of nutrients and pesticides. It protects water and air quality and preserves the beneficial functions of the soil in specific ecosystems.

Process/Skill Questions:

- What types of data, information, and results are provided in a soil analysis?
- What is the difference between chemical, physical, and biological aspects of the soil?
- Why is lime applied to land? Sulfur?
- Why is prior knowledge of plant species important for nutrient recommendations?
- How often should one take a soil sample of one’s land if one wants to grow vegetable or grazing crops?
- How does one best support biological health and diversity in soil?
- What is the effect of soil pH on plant growth?
- Why is soil biology important to soil quality?
- What are the major nutrients needed for plant growth?
- How can one use the information provided in a soil analysis to properly manage the soil and/or land?