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ARS Home » Southeast Area » Auburn, Alabama » Soil Dynamics Research » Research » Publications at this Location » Publication #110049
Title: SOIL COMPACTION

Author
item SCHULER, RONALD - UNIV OF WISCONSIN
item CASADY, WILLIAM - UNIV OF MISSOURI
item Raper, Randy

Submitted to: Book Chapter
Publication Type: Book / Chapter
Publication Acceptance Date: 2/9/2000
Publication Date: 2/9/2000
Citation: Schuler, R.T., Casady, W.W., Raper, R.L. 2000. Soil compaction. Chapter 10 of MWPS Special Publication Conservation tillage systems and management. Editor: R.C. Reeder.

Interpretive Summary: Soil compaction problems plague producers in the U. S. and around the world causing substantial yield reductions. This article presents a general overview of the problem, gives some simple measurements to quantify soil compaction, and presents some strategies to minimize effects of soil compaction. The measurements suggested will allow producers to determine if they have a problem while the alleviation strategies will allow them to reduce/minimize soil compaction's negative effects.

Technical Abstract: Soil compaction continues to cause yield reductions throughout the U.S. and the world. This article describes the various measurements that can be used to describe soil compaction including soil cone penetrometers. Suggestions are also made concerning tire selections and proper ballasting and inflation pressure to minimize the compaction caused by vehicle traffic. Finally, several suggestions are also made to assist producers selecting subsoilers to alleviate compacted soil conditions. This article should provide producers with a good overview of the various methods that are available for detecting, reducing, and alleviating compacted soil conditions.