We’re Published: Predictive Soil Mapping Pilot Study

The integral pilot study that led up to the Living Lab has been published in the journal FACETS. Authors include Kimberly Cornish and Dr. Kris Nichols of RALL; Dr. Preston Sorenson, expert on predictive spectral data processing and predictive soil mapping; Dr. Monika Gorzelak, research scientist and lead of the Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada (AAFC) science team; and others.

The pilot study used 2-scale and Latin hypercube sampling, spanning 404 locations across the province. The study stemmed from a consistent lack of information regarding carbon sequestration potential in soils, and sought to improve soil carbon estimates in Alberta. 

The researchers found a higher organic carbon content in grassland soils compared with cropland, and, unexpectedly, a higher stock of SOC below 30cm depth than predicted. 

Access the full paper and results of the study here.