NRCS Showcases Soils Technology at Major Conference  

For the first time since 1960, the world’s leading professionals in soil science met in the United States at the 18th World Congress of Soil Science in Philadelphia. NRCS played a key role in the weeklong Congress, held July 10-14. NRCS Chief Bruce Knight welcomed the conference to the United States on behalf of Agriculture Secretary Mike Johanns.

In his remarks, Chief Knight addressed NRCS’s longstanding commitment to soil science and its importance in the agency’s mission. He challenged the audience of more than 2,000 to help NRCS do a better job with soil biology and to help unlock the secrets of higher productivity while conserving soil for the next generation. “Sustainable soils are critical to worldwide efforts to eradicate poverty,” said Knight.

The conference included presentations by thousands of soil scientists from around the world on diverse topics such as geographic information system technologies, land-use analysis, environmental soil biology, plant and soil science research needs, and soil science education. In addition, participants visited locations as varied as the Chesapeake Bay Region and the New Jersey Pine Barrens as part of several field trips.

NRCS also used its large exhibit to share additional information about the agency and its mission. Soils—The Foundation of Life was the theme of the newly designed display that included information on the National Cooperative Soil Survey, Our Mission, Our Function, Data Collection, Resources and Products, Technology, and Applications. More than 2,000 participants visited the display and received valuable information and material.

The next World Congress will be held in 2010 in Australia.

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USDA Video News Release Highlights the World Congress of Soil Science