Soil survey data needs when studying modern land use problems

Abstract

Abstract. Modern land use problems in the Netherlands are now focused on striking a balance between agricultural production, environmental protection, and nature and landscape conservation by means of new laws on soil protection. Quantitative expressions for crucial land qualities for different land management scenarios are needed to obtain adequate input for the decision making process emphasizing not only actual, but particularly potential conditions. Computer simulation techniques are being applied in this context. Three case studies are reviewed, covering: (i) adsorption of excess phosphate from animal manure; (ii) effects of lowering of water deficits for crops, and (iii) effects of soil tillage and compaction on crucial land qualities for agricultural production. Lack of representative basic data for simulation models inhibits their widespread practical application. Derivation of such basic data from existing soil‐survey databases is therefore being discussed in terms of using various types of transfer functions, which allow more effective use of available data. In addition, geographical information systems are needed to allow rapid output for areas of land as represented on soil maps.