Knowledge and use of visual soil structure assessment methods in Brazil – A survey

Abstract

The most recent data from FAO about agricultural production value indicate that Brazil generated about US$ 221.64 billion in agricultural products in 2016, occupying fourth place in the world ranking. However, crop yield is limited in some areas because of low-quality soils resulting from poor soil structure and intensive cropping. The soil structure can be assessed visually by different methods. Based on the information obtained using visual assessment methods, soil management techniques to maintain or improve soil structural quality can be proposed. A survey was conducted to evaluate knowledge and use of visual soil structure assessment methods among agricultural science and technology professionals in Brazil and to identify the best known and most used methods. The survey took the form of a virtual online questionnaire sent to 763 electronic addresses in all five regions of Brazil. Around 49 % of respondents did not know any of the methods listed and 70 % had never used the methods in studies, professional work or research. Knowledge and use of visual soil structure assessment methods in Brazil was limited to the university scientific community, mostly in Southeastern and Southern Brazil. There were fewer users in Midwestern, Northern and Northeastern Brazil, possibly because those regions developed their agriculture later or have limited access to research on soil science. Therefore, actions to increase knowledge and uptake of the methods and highlight their importance for society are necessary.