Author
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Bryant, Ray |
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Submitted to: American Society of Agronomy Abstracts
Publication Type: Abstract Only Publication Acceptance Date: 7/29/2004 Publication Date: 10/31/2004 Citation: Bryant, R.B. 2004. Applied pedology in the usda agricultural research service: unrealized opportunities[abstract]. American Society of Agronomy Abstracts. Paper No. 4616 Interpretive Summary: An interpretive summary is not required. Technical Abstract: The USDA Agricultural Research Service (ARS) employs over 150 soil scientists, who contribute to research programs in soil resource management, water quality, global change, rangeland and pasture management, and integrated farming systems, in addition to more tradition research in crop and animal science. A broader view of pedology to include the applied aspects of understanding the interactions between land management and landscape processes that affect soil genesis could make important contributions to research projeacts in these ARS program areas. However, an analysis of the Soil Science Society of America membership database revealed that only 4 % of ARS-employed members self-identified with the S-5 division (Pedology). In comparison, soil scientists who self-identified with pedology comprise 32 % of the total membership and 10.3 % of university-employed members. Greater awareness by researchers, educators, practitioners, and students of applied pedology and its potential contributions to government-led agricultural and environmental research programs should lead to enhanced employment opportunities for pedologists. |
