WHY STUDY SOILS?

WHY STUDY SOILS?

1. Soil is the domain of acheology

   • • Soils can reveal information about
       • Geology and peoples
       • Ancient climates

2. Soil is an integral part of the ecosystem

   • • A biome is a complex system of
       • Soil
       • Climate
       • Organisms
     • We pollute soil by exposing
       • Human sewage
       • Industrial waste products

3. Soil is the primary resource for food productions

   • • The earth does not have enough land for all inhabitants to enjoy an affluent diet

4. Soil properties affect engineering projects

   • • Is the natural foundation that supports the man-made foundation of a building
     • Soil properties limit engineering uses for a parcel of land
     • Soils may or may not be suitable for
       • Septic tank drain fields
       • Dwellings with basements

5. Soil profoundly affect human history

   • • Mesopotamia
       • Irrigating 5500 years ago
     • China
       • Built river dikes about 4000 years ago
     • Egypt
       • The plow was invented there some 6000 years ago

6. The study of soils is a science of inherent value to mankind

   • • Soil science includes
       • Edaphology
         • Is the study of soils as habitat for plants and other organisms
       • Pedology
         • Is the study of soil as a geologic entity

7. Karin Stefannny Mesa Perez

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