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Soil infiltration is key to soil health

A soil scientist says infiltration is the most important key to maintaining soil health and improving crop yields.

George Derringer, a resource soil scientist with the Natural Resources Conservation Service in Ohio says soil systems that have dense root systems, retain microbes and open pores throughout their structure encourage nutrient retention in fields.

“We work hard to put fertility out there and we make sure we have enough M, P and K to get a good crop but if the water runs off and goes down the river before it has a chance to soak into the soil, well then we’re in trouble,” says Derringer.

Derringer says two soil management practices work best for farmers to retain water and maximize nutrient use.

“Far and away, the best is no-till. Add to that a few cover crops here and there to keep the pores open in the off season, to keep growing roots in the system closer to year-round,” says Derringer.

Derringer says soils that have living roots in them – from crops and cover crops – and are covered with crops and crop residue as long as possible are the keys to sustainable agriculture and improving soil quality.

Audio: George Derringer, NRCS-Ohio