Iowa State University estimates the economic cost of lost organic matter due to soil erosion and how it affects the long-term productivity of the soil.

A 7-year USDA study found that relatively low-level grazing does not compact the soil or significantly affect the amount of soil organic matter.

Tillage practices that conserve moisture, plants that use water more efficiently and soil with more organic matter have produced higher yields even in dry conditions, according to South Dakota State University soil scientist David Clay.

At first glance, soil sampling would seem to be a relatively easy task. However, when you consider the variability that likely exists within a field because of inherent soil formation factors and past production practices, the collection of a representative soil sample becomes more of a challenge.