Soil health for conservation and production goals

Authors: Veum, Kristen

Submitted to: Meeting Abstract
Publication Type: Abstract Only
Publication Acceptance Date: 8/13/2024
Publication Date: N/A
Citation: N/A

Interpretive Summary:

Technical Abstract: Soil health indicators are linked with multiple important soil functions such as nutrient cycling and carbon sequestration. In the Midwestern U.S., producers and crop advisors are particularly interested in the potential productivity benefits of improved soil health, including increased yield or reduced fertilizer needs for corn. Multiple large-scale studies have shown a link between soil health measurements and corn yield in the Midwest; however, soil health factors were secondary to primary climate-edaphic factors and nitrogen management. Ongoing efforts to assess yield and the soil health status of cropping systems across the U.S. under variable management practices will provide greater insight into the role of soil health in achieving conservation and production goals.