Note: Program subject to change without notice

Wednesday, November 7, 2007
302-10

Pilot Studies for Dynamic Soil Properties: Lessons Learned for Soil Survey.

Arlene J. Tugel1, Ellis Benham1, Cathy Seybold1, Cathy Scott1, Fred Young1, Allan Johnston1, Brian Gardner1, Deborah Page-Dumroese2, Karl Hipple1, and Pete Biggam3. (1) 3JER NMSU, USDA-NRCS, NRCS Jornada Exp Range, Box 30003, Las Cruces, NM 88003-0003, (2) USDA-FS (Forest Service), Rocky Mountain Research Statio, 1221 S Main, Moscow, ID 83843, (3) USDI-NPS, Denver, CO 80225

Soil survey data collection procedures to describe management effects on soil are under development. Four pilot studies have been conducted to help craft, test, and refine sampling protocols. The pilots include Big Bend National Park (TX, 2002-2004); Arches National Park (UT, 2005-2006); Springfield Plateau (MO, 2006-2007); and Northern Idaho (ID, 2006-2007). Plans are underway to initiate a pilot project on cropland. A summary of lessons learned from these studies is presented. Field methods, sampling efficiency, laboratory considerations, and data applications will be discussed. Dynamic soil property data will be used to interpret soil functions for resource planning and management.