Biological Properties
Microorganisms
Microorganisms are very small forms of life that can sometimes live as single cells, although many also form colonies of cells. A microscope is usually needed to see individual cells of these organisms.
Macro Fauna
While the most well‐known nematodes are pests occupying and feeding on plant roots (such as the lesion nematode and the soybean cyst nematode), in fact most nematodes are beneficial organisms. Nematodes are extremely important because they consume a diverse array of food sources, which places them at multiple trophic levels in the soil food web.
Particuate Organic Matter
Particulate organic matter (POM) fraction referred to in this document comprises all soil organic matter (SOM) particles less than 2 mm and greater than 0.053 mm in size (Cambardella and Elliot, 1992). POM is biologically and chemically active and is part of the labile (easily decomposable) pool of soil organic matter (SOM).
Total Organic Carbon
Total organic carbon (TOC) is the carbon (C) stored in soil organic matter (SOM). Organic carbon (OC) enters the soil through the decomposition of plant and animal residues, root exudates, living and dead microorganisms, and soil biota.
Soil Enzymes
Soil enzymes increase the reaction rate at which plant residues decompose and release plant available nutrients. The substance acted upon by a soil enzyme is called the substrate.
Soil Respiration
Carbon dioxide (CO2) release from the soil surface is referred to as soil respiration. This CO2 results from several sources, including aerobic microbial decomposition of soil organic matter (SOM) to obtain energy for their growth and functioning (microbial respiration), plant root and faunal respiration, and eventually from the dissolution of carbonates in soil solution.
2027 Soil Health Conference
The 2027 Soil Health Conference is set for Jan. 26-27 in Sioux Falls! Our outstanding lineup of speakers includes Keith Berns, Chuck Rice, Erin Martin, and many more!
News & Events
Managing Livestock and Soil with Invisible Fence
By Maddy Kludt PIERRE, SD – A fence that doesn’t exist might sound impossible, but it became a reality for a group of South Dakota cattle producers this summer. Through South Dakota Soil Health Coalition’s Virtual Fencing Program, producers were able to use Gallagher...
FFA Regional Land Judging Winners Receive Scholarships
SD FFA Foundation Rapid City (October 2026) – The South Dakota FFA Foundation is proud to announce the recipients of five $100 scholarships for students placing first in one of the five South Dakota Regional Land Evaluation Competitions this fall. 2026 scholarship...
Growing sunflowers for soil health and stability
By Stan Wise For an agricultural operation to thrive, producers must sometimes look at the big picture and make decisions to benefit the long-term success of their farm or ranch. Changes made on a farm now might take years to realize their positive effects, but those...