L22: Soil Health

Question 1

what is soil

Answer 1

dynamic interface between rock, air, water, and living organisms

Question 2

_______is a fundamental characteristic for soil functioning

Answer 2

texture

Question 3

clays

Answer 3

small, layered, negative charges, nutrient exchange

Question 4

soil organic matter

Answer 4

made mostly of carbon compounds from decomposition of living organisms

Question 5

what does soil organic matter contribute to soil function

Answer 5

nutrient cycling, carbon sequestration, soil structure, water holding capacity

Question 6

_________ organisms in a teaspoon of soil

Answer 6

1 billion

Question 7

what is soil health

Answer 7

the capacity of a soil to function, within ecosystem and land use boundaries, to sustain productivity, maintain environmental quality, and promote plant and animal health

Question 8

what is necessary for a soil health test to be meaningful

Answer 8

it must target a specific and relevant soil function or ecosystem service

Question 9

6Cs of soil health

Answer 9

compaction reduction
conservation tillage
crop and animal diversity
continuous living plants cover crops
compost and amendments

Question 10

compaction reduction example

Answer 10

controlled traffic farming

Question 11

controlled traffic farming

Answer 11

permanent tramlines that produce better soil structure, better infiltration and better water holding capacity
(need compatible equipment)

Question 12

surface residue benefits

Answer 12

decrease raindrop impact on soil
decrease speed of water over soil surface
decrease wind impact on soil surface
tall stubble: improve snow retention

Question 13

Surface residues disadvantages

Answer 13

might harbor insect pests and diseases
might protect weeds from herbicide
can interfere with seeding
slower soil drying and warming and might delay seeding operation