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Soil is defined as the unconsolidated material at the earth's surface with the ability to support rooted plants in a natural environment. The soil is an open system (constantly changing) made up of minerals and organic matter, liquid, and gases. Soils have layers, called horizons, which have been influenced by their location as it relates to climate, topography, geology, and biota (within the soil and on the surface). Soils that are influenced by similar conditions will have similar characteristics and properties. The characteristics of the soil indicate what uses it is best suited for and can influence how the land is managed. Soil surveys give us the basic understanding of how to interpret and properly manage our soils, enabling us to become better stewards of our land.
The survey provides information about soils as it affects land use management, and interpretations for a wide range of rural and urban land uses. How we grow our food and develop our communities is influenced by the quality and character of the soil. We depend on soil to filter our waste in septic and sewage disposal systems, providing construction materials, support foundations for homes, towns, roads, provide nutrients and hold water for our crops, pastures, and woodlands. In addition to all of these attributes, soils also provide the basis for the ecosystems that we use for recreation (parks, forests, etc.).
A soil survey is prepared by soil scientists who document the properties of soil and predict soil behavior for a multitude of uses. These predictions, often called interpretations, are developed to help users to better manage this natural resource. By understanding and using information published in soil surveys, people will be able to make more informed decisions when it comes to land use.
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