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3. Basic Soil Monitoring and Evaluation
Consistency
Collecting each sample/
observation in a uniform
manner across sites and
across time improves the
quality of the results.
Organization
Having a uniform manner
of collecting, labeling,
and handling samples/
recording observations can
prevent errors and make
the information usable for
evaluation.
Simplicity
It is likely that the simplest
procedure (given the goals
and constraints) will be
most effective.
Three principles for soil sample collection
Ackerson, 2018
Before-and-after snapshots can help you evaluate specific activities. For example, if you wanted to
know how your crops change the nutrient availability of your field or the effects of cover cropping,
you would sample before and after your major growing season.
You may want to use the results of your sampling to decide what activity to do. For example, it is
also a good idea to sample prior to applying fertilizer so that you can know what nutrients to apply.
Nutrient recommendations (pounds per acre) can be estimated for specific crops based on results
before planting or at the start of the season for perennial crops
Be consistent over time if you want to compare from year to year; some properties (such as nutrient
availability) can shift seasonally even without additional management activities.
Be sure to record the date of your sample and why you wanted to sample, so that you can consider
this in your decision making once you have all the information.
When to Sample Your Soils