Only a holistic approach can ensure the long-term productivity and ecological balance necessary for sustaining life on Earth
Soil health is more than just a farming buzzword. Defined by the USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service as “the continued capacity of soil to function as a vital living ecosystem that sustains plants, animals, and humans,” soil health highlights the dynamic and living nature of soil, emphasizing its role as a critical component of the broader ecosystem. But what does this mean in practice?
Healthy soil supports biological productivity, maintains environmental quality and promotes plant and animal health. In agricultural systems, it enhances crop yields, improves water retention and reduces the need for chemical inputs like fertilizers and pesticides. Practices such as crop rotation, cover cropping and reduced tillage are essential for maintaining and improving soil health, ensuring sustainable agricultural production.
However, soil health isn’t just vital for crops. It’s crucial for grazing systems too, supporting robust plant growth, which in turn sustains livestock. Healthy soils in grazing lands ensure that forage plants are nutritious and abundant, providing essential nutrients for animals. Proper management practices, including rotational grazing and maintaining appropriate stocking rates, help prevent soil degradation and promote the regeneration of plant communities, thereby maintaining soil structure and organic matter content.
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