Over the past month, researchers from NIBIO have been out in the field collecting soil samples. 

The site is dominated by Planosols, a soil type known for its sharp transition between layers. In the plowed topsoil, you’ll see a rich brown color, but just beneath it lies a striking golden horizon, textured with more silt and sand. This abrupt change isn’t just a visual cue — it may play a key role in how water and nutrients move through the landscape.

Understanding these soil properties is crucial. The data the NIBIO team is collecting will feed into advanced soil modelling efforts, helping us predict how these systems respond to different land management practices. Management matters here! Due to the erosion risk in this region, local farmers are encouraged not to plow in autumn. This practice helps reduce runoff and soil particle loss—along with valuable phosphorus and nitrogen—and supports the long-term health of the soil by preserving its carbon stock.

Healthy soils mean more resilient agriculture, better water quality, and a stronger buffer against climate change. Fieldwork like this helps ensure that our policies and practices are rooted in solid science.