Measuring soil processes in agricultural research

Research findings on these effects therefore need to be modeled if they are to be extrapolated to other locations with similar soils and climatic conditions. This manual presents practical methods for assessing management effects on such soil processes as water infiltration and erosion by water, and on water, air, and nutrient use by crops. It covers the basic elements of soil physical characterization, and deals principally with the role of soil structure on water infiltration and percolation, heat flow, aeration, and the mobility of roots and soil microorganisms. The authors discuss the agronomic and engineering practices that affect soil processes; the effects of such strategies as contour cultivation, organic and inorganic amendments, watershed management, and soil surface manipulation are emphasized. (Author abstract)