#soilscience #agriculture #sustainability #soilhealth #ageducation | Brad Carvalho | 16 comments

It's Soil NOT Dirt Soil is the foundation of agriculture, ecosystems, and even infrastructure. But have you ever thought about how soil forms? We've discussed Soil development and its importance with Michael Nattrass at College of Agriculture and Human Ecology at Tennessee Tech Soil development is influenced by five key factors: 1. Parent Material – the mineral or organic material from which soil develops. 2. Climate – temperature and precipitation drive weathering and organic activity. 3. Organisms – microbes, plants, animals, and humans all shape soil structure and chemistry. 4. Topography – slope and elevation impact drainage, erosion, and sunlight exposure. 5. Time – the longer these factors interact, the more developed and layered the soil becomes. Understanding these factors isn’t just academic—it’s critical for managing soil health, improving crop productivity, and ensuring long-term sustainability. As we face climate change and growing food demands, our relationship with soil must evolve. It’s not just what's beneath our feet—it’s a living, dynamic resource that deserves attention and care. #SoilScience #Agriculture #Sustainability #SoilHealth #AgEducation  | 16 comments on LinkedIn