Norwegian Soil: Exploring soil health at the plot-, field- and regional scale

Summary

Healthy soil is essential for growing food, storing carbon, and supporting nature. But soil can be damaged by erosion, compaction, and loss of organic matter—especially with climate change and intensive farming. In Norway, soils vary a lot between regions due to climate and geology. This PhD research looked at soil health from different angles: using data to develop regional scoring curves for interpreting soil health, testing conservation practices on farms, and studying cover crops in northern conditions.

The results show that practices like no-till and cover cropping can improve soil structure and boost life in the soil, such as earthworms. The research also highlights the need for a national soil health monitoring framework in Norway. Overall, the thesis provides a pedo-climatic assessment framework and specific recommendations to help farmers and policymakers improve soil health assessments under unique Norwegian conditions.