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The National Soil Erosion Research Laboratory (NSERL) is the focal point for the U.S. Government's national research program in soil erosion by water. The lab is in the Midwest Area of the USDA-ARS. Major program thrusts of the NSERL include fundamental erosion process research, erosion control research, and delivery of improved erosion prediction technology. The NSERL is located on the campus of Purdue University (building labeled SOIL in south center of map) in West Lafayette, Indiana.  This modern facility houses over twenty scientists and support staff, and is equipped with a large indoor hydraulics laboratory, portable rainfall simulators for field experimentation, as well as extensive computer and laboratory equipment. 

Scientists at NSERL have adjunct appointments in  the Purdue Agronomy Department or the Purdue Agricultural and Biological Engineering Department.

Other USDA-ARS units on the Purdue Campus include the Crop Production and Pest Control Control Research Unit and the Livestock Behavior Research Unit

Our Mission
To develop the knowledge and technology needed by land users to conserve soil for future generations.