We’ve heard a lot in the press about the damaging effect of plastic waste on our oceans and the impact of deforestation — but what about soil? Soil is our life support system: it provides anchorage for roots, holds water and nutrients, yet it’s under growing pressure.
With a background in farming, we know the importance of healthy soil and we’re keen to help raise awareness on World Soil Day (5 December). This day is celebrated annually to focus attention on sustainable management of soil resources.
Why is soil under threat?
Our soils are under threat from climate change and increasingly intensive agriculture. As fertile topsoil thins, it becomes harder to grow crops — and rebuilding fertility and structure with organic matter can take decades.
Heavy rainfall events cause erosion on unprotected or damaged soils, loss of soil nutrients and carbon, reduced crop growth, and pollution of rivers and streams. With extreme weather predicted to increase, this pressure will intensify.
Intensive practices such as repeated tillage can also destroy natural soil structure and disrupt the living flora and fauna vital for soil health and drainage.
In the UK, farming policy is changing to address this — with support moving away from land area alone toward improvements in productivity and the environment.
How can farmers protect their soils?
Farmers can protect soils from extreme weather by minimising tillage or adopting direct drilling, and by establishing cover crops so soil isn’t left bare and vulnerable over winter.
Installing or maintaining a good land drainage system also helps protect soil by preventing wet spots and nutrient run-off. Poorly drained soils can diminish crop yields, so keeping drainage in top condition is essential.
At Cotterills we offer a wide range of land drainage options at competitive prices — call us on 0121 351 3230.
Alternatively, fill out our enquiry form:
Read our blog on improving soil quality in farming: https://www.cotterillcivils.co.uk/blog/farming/how-to-improve-the-quality-of-your-soil/
Read our guide on protecting soil from extreme weather: https://www.cotterillcivils.co.uk/blog/farming/how-farmers-can-protect-soil-from-extreme-weather/
