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3. Basic Soil Monitoring and Evaluation
In-field tests and assessments
At the time you go out with digging equipment into the field to take samples, you should also
examine the soil for evidence of conditions which affect soil health and functions. That is, look at the
aggregates; look for compaction, evidence of erosion, evidence of biota (worms and channels, fungi),
accumulation of salts (salt crystals); look at the soil color and the thickness of the A horizon, etc.
We discussed and provided instructions for many tests and assessments in soil fundamentals
activities. You can use any of these or variations on these protocols to gain information about your
soil physical, chemical, and biological characteristics.
In-field assessment worksheets
These assessment worksheets are examples of what technical service providers may use as part of
their planning and evaluation processes. Note that there is variation in the specific assessment of soil
health, as this focus has emerged more recently. Also note that for best results these guides should
be used with experienced personnel.
What Tests to Do in the Field and in the Lab
Excerpt from Pellant, M., P.L. Shaver, D.A. Pyke,
J.E. Herrick, N. Lepak, G. Riegel, E. Kachergis, B.A.
Newingham, D. Toledo, and F.E. Busby. 2020.
Interpreting Indicators of Rangeland Health,
Version 5. Tech Ref 1734-6. U.S. Department
of the Interior, Bureau of Land Management,
National Operations Center, Denver, CO.
Excerpt from In-Field Soil Health
Assessment Worksheet in the New
Mexico Field Office Technical Guide,
Section I, Agronomy, Agro80.