Second, we need to establish a baseline understanding about soil quality so that we can recognize changes as they develop. By using baselines to determine if soil quality is deteriorating, stable, or improving, we have a good indicator of the health of an ecosystem. The ultimate purpose of researching and assessing soil quality is to protect and improve long-term agricultural productivity, water quality, and habitats of all organisms including people. Factors that affect soil quality Sediment Deposition Sediment is solid material that is or has been transported from its site of origin by air, water, gravity, or ice to a field or low landscape position. Deposition occurs when the amount of sediment becomes greater than the carrying capacity of the force that is moving it.
Sediment can either improve or degrade the soil upon which it is deposited.
If fine-grained soil particles are deposited on sandy soils, the soil quality may improve. However, if coarser particles are deposited on fine-textured soil, the quality of the soil usually degrades over time. Compaction Soil compaction occurs when soil particles are pressed together, reducing the pore space between them. This increases the bulk density of the soil. Soil compaction is caused by tilling, harvesting, or grazing when the soils are wet.