Reducing machine movement intensity in the field improves soil structure

Abstract

Precision agriculture, which also includes the controlled movement of machines across the field, has several positive economic and environmental aspects. Despite this fact, knowledge gaps were identified, especially regarding the impact of compaction on changes in the humus regime and soil structure. For this reason, the first data are presented and discussed in this short communication. Soil samples for the determination of soil organic matter (SOM), humus, and soil structure parameters were taken from a long-term field experiment of controlled traffic farming. Samples were taken from points along permanent track lines and in places where no machines had passed for 12 years. The obtained results indicate that 12 years of no machinery passing through the field improves the soil structure, but does not significantly affect the parameters of organic matter and soil humus.