Assessing soil quality involves a combination of physical, chemical, and biological tests. Key parameters include:
Soil pH: Indicates the acidity or alkalinity of the soil, which affects nutrient availability and microbial activity. Organic Matter Content: Reflects the amount of decomposed plant and animal material, which influences soil fertility and structure. Cation Exchange Capacity (CEC): Measures the soil's ability to hold and exchange positively charged ions, important for nutrient retention. Microbial Biomass: Indicates the abundance of microorganisms, which play a crucial role in nutrient cycling and contaminant degradation. Contaminant Levels: Specific tests for various pollutants to determine their concentrations and potential risks.
