Soil as a History Book

Abstract

<p>Soil is one of the most influential components of our enviroronment. It is a complex mixture of physical, chemical, and biological processes providing innumerable ecosystem services. The properties of our soil today support our way of life. It filters our water, contains our wastes, and is the substrate for the production of our food. Combined with a good climate, the convergence of the right soil properties here in Iowa has given its citizens the opportunity to be net exporters of food and feed. That opportunity gives Iowans the ability to feed themselves and prosper economically through the sale of excess goods. Yet this opportunity is heavily predicated on the resource of good soil.</p>