Agriculture Reference
In-Depth Information
M.R. Carter
OM andSustainability
1
Organic Matter and
Sustainability
M.R. C
ARTER
Agriculture andAgri-FoodCanada, Crops and Livestock Research
Centre, Charlottetown, Prince Edward Island, C1A 7M8, Canada
Introduction
For several decades, there has been a concern about soil organic matter and
sustainability of the soil resource in intensive farming systems. Underlying
these concerns is the recognition that soil organic matter plays an impor-
tant, yet often poorly understood, role in sustaining soil functions. In the
UK, several studies (MAFF, 1970; HMSO, 1994, 1996) have emphasized
the need to understand better how soil organic matter functions in soil
and how management of soil organic matter can be optimized to achieve
sustainable farming systems (Box 1.1). Although difficulties still remain in
Box 1.1.
Major concerns with regard to soil organic matter and sustainability as given in UK
studies.
Improved methods to estimate soil organic matter.
Monitor soil organic matter concentrations over time.
Establish minimum soil organic matter concentrations for different soils below which adverse
effects may occur.
Protect soil as a limited resource and as an essential part of life-support systems.
Ensure land management maintains soil functions by preventing irreversible declines in soil
organic matter.
Soils should be given same priority in environmental protection as air or water.
Future surveys of land should provide a measure of soil biological quality.
Based on UK studies (MAFF, 1970; HMSO, 1994, 1996).
