Sampling dynamic soil properties for soil surveys and state-and-transition models: Big Bend National Park

Title	Sampling dynamic soil properties for soil surveys and state-and-transition models: Big Bend National Park
Publication Type	Conference Paper
Year of Publication	2004
Authors	Tugel A.J., Loomis L., Andrews S., Dyess J., Herrick JE, Peacock G., Biggam P.
Conference Name	Western Regional Soil Survey and Land Resource Workshop
Date Published	February 12-13,
Conference Location	College Station, TX
ARIS Log Number	167846
Keywords	Big Bend National Park, soil properties, soil surveys, state-and-transition models
Abstract	Soil change information is needed by today's decision makers for a variety of management goals, including short and long-term productivity, economics, sustainability, and environmental quality. However, soil survey databases do not provide information about the historical or expected dynamics of soil properties that change in response to management and disturbances. Sampling methods for bulk density, salinity, pH, soil surface stability, canopy cover and canopy gap were tested during soil survey activities at Big Bend National Park. State-and-transition models for ecological sites were used to select sampling sites and provide a framework to illustrate relationships among data. Procedures and results will be presented. The soil survey map unit component can serve as the data carrier for soil information related to changes in function and hence, to states within an ecological site. Inclusion of state-dependent dynamic soil property values will enhance information on soil-vegetation dynamics within ecological site descriptions, add value to soil surveys, aid the interpretation of assessment and monitoring results, and increase our knowledge of soil change.