In this episode, we dive into the critical role of reference site selection in soil health evaluation, featuring a discussion on innovative frameworks like State-and-Transition Models (STMs) and Cropland Reference Ecological Units (CREUs). We explore how these tools are reshaping soil health assessments by providing a structured approach to evaluating and bridging soil health gaps between cropland and natural ecosystems. Tune in as we unpack the science behind these models, their application in diverse agricultural landscapes, and the potential they hold for informing sustainable management practices. Whether you’re a soil scientist, agronomist, or just curious about how science is pushing agriculture toward resilience, this conversation will deepen your understanding of the complex interactions within our soils and the tools we can use to measure, compare, and improve them.

Reference material: https://doi.org/10.1016/j.soisec.2024.100142