The Science



Cover crops improve soil health and environmental quality by enhancing soil organic carbon sequestration and nutrient cycling in agroecosystems. This study evaluated the effect of cover crops on soil CO2–C emissions, temperature, and water content during cover crop growth from April to October, 2017 and 2018 in New Mexico.
Recycling old almond tree biomass in situ prior to replanting an orchard is known as whole orchard recycling (WOR). It has potential as a carbon (C) negative practice to build soil C storage, soil health, and orchard productivity. Researchers in this study tested the potential of this practice for long term C sequestration and found it effective. It also led to higher yields and substantial improvement in soil functioning, including nutrient content, aggregation, porosity, and water retention.





This paper summarizes how agricultural systems developed into what they are today and identifies ways in which these systems will need to be improved to meet future food security challenges. The core principles and concepts of conservation agriculture (CA) systems provide an important unifying framework. The paper provides evidence for why these systems, when flexibly applied and in ways that mimic natural ecosystems, provide the best approach for moving forward. Read the paper in full.(opens in new window)



Abstract: Limiting climate warming to <2°C requires increased mitigation efforts, including land stewardship, whose potential in the United States is poorly understood. We quantified the potential of natural climate solutions (NCS)—21 conservation, restoration, and improved land management interventions on natural and agricultural lands—to increase carbon storage and avoid greenhouse gas emissions in the United States. Read more . . . (opens in new window)
Abstract: Most spiders are generalist predators and important biological control agents of various insect pests of agricultural crops. A study was conducted to determine the impact of cultural practices on the abundance and diversity of soil surface-dwelling spiders (Araneae). Two experiments were conducted at the Chinhoyi University of Technology experimental farm, Zimbabwe, over the 2013/2014 and 2014/2015 cropping seasons. Read more . . .(opens in new window)









Increased long term (20-50 year) sequestration of carbon in soils, plants and plant products will benefit the environment and agriculture. Crop, grazing, and forestlands can be managed for both economic productivity and carbon sequestration. In many settings this dual management approach can be achieved by applying currently recognized best management practices such as conservation tillage, efficient nutrient management, erosion control, use of cover crops and restoration of degraded soils. Read more . . . (PDF)