1. Helping People Understand Soils Ten Key Messages

2. Soil is a Fundamental Part of the Ecosystem
The living systems occurring above and below the ground surface are determined by the properties of the soil. We often ignore the soil because it is hard to observe.

3. The Study of Soil (Pedology) is a Unique Discipline
Soil—a natural body of solids, liquid, and gases,with either horizons, or layers or the ability tosupport rooted plants
Unique physical, chemical, and biological properties
color
texture
structure
consistence
roots
pores
other features

4. Soil Survey is a Scientifically-Based Inventory
A soil survey includes maps, descriptions, properties, climate, and interpretations. There are about 3000 soil survey areas in the United States. These are excellent sources of information on this resource.

5. Soils Perform Several Vital Functions
Sustaining plant and animal life below and above the surface
Regulating and partitioning water and solute flow
Filtering, buffering, degrading, immobilizing, and detoxifying
Storing and cycling nutrients
Providing support to structures

6. Soils Are Variable But in Predictable Locations
There are 23,000 soil series in various combinations with different slopes and surface textures.
Soil Forming Factors:
Parent Material
Climate
Living Organisms
Topography
Time

7. Scientific Names for Soils Should Be Used
Like plants and animals, soils are classified
The system is called Soil Taxonomy
The highest level is the soil order (12)
The lowest level is the soil series, often a place name

8. Soil Studies Can Be Incorporated Into Other Studies
Science
ecology, biology, chemistry
Social Studies
world trade, land use
Mathematics
soil loss over one hectare
History
settlement of the U.S., dust bowl
Art
soil crayons, acrylic paints

9. Consider the Soil First to Minimize Risk

10. Soils Are Alive Organism Types bacteria fungi protozoa nematodes
arthropods
earthworms
Roles & Benefits
decomposition
release nutrients
create pores
stabilize soils

11. Soil Management Affects Soil Properties
Soil Quality

12. The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) prohibits discrimination in all its programs and activities on the basis of race, color, national origin, age, disability, and where applicable, sex, marital status, familial status, parental status, religion, sexual orientation, genetic information, political beliefs, reprisal, or because all or a part of an individual's income is derived from any public assistance program. (Not all prohibited bases apply to all programs.) Persons with disabilities who require alternative means for communication of program information (Braille, large print, audiotape, etc.) should contact USDA's TARGET Center at (202) (voice and TDD). To file a complaint of discrimination write to USDA, Director, Office of Civil Rights, 1400 Independence Avenue, S.W., Washington, D.C or call (800) (voice) or (202) (TDD).