Book Description

This revised and updated text guides students through biochemical and microbial processes in soils and introduces them to microbial processes in water and sediments. This classic teaching text includes basic concepts and applications in agriculture, forestry, ecology, and environmental science. It can also be an invaluable resource for research in biogeochemistry, microbiology, sustainable agriculture, and environmental amelioration. The Second Edition has expanded to include such topics as bioremediation, molecular biology of soil, biodiversity of soil organisms, and the impact of global climate change on soil microhabitats.

Key Features
* Includes many interpretive diagrams
* Provides compact and concise coverage of soil microbiology
* Thoroughly updated and expanded to include bioremdiation, soil molecular biology, biodiversity, and global climate change ... Read more

Reviews (1)

Standard text for soil microbiology
I was a graduate student in soils and forestry when I took a class in soil microbiology that used this text. It is essentially the gold standard for soil micro texts. It isn't overly technical, but it includes a thorough analysis of the basic concepts needed to understand most aspects of soil microbiology research and application. The book uses mostly agronomic examples, but there is enough variety of ecosystems to make it useful for those working in forestry, grasslands, and almost any type of soil. Those interested in detailed discussions of molecular microbial methods or biotechnology may be disappointed, but for the general student looking to understand what those billion microbes per teaspoon of soil are doing, this book is the best introduction out there. ... Read more

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An introduction to alternative thought on grassroots culture
Esteva and Prakash provide sources of alternative thought about what is important in and of the world. The book offers evidence of how grassroots cultures in non-western nations are combining people interests with environmental interests to assure a future for their cultures. The book gives support to the idea that technological development is not inevitable, but a choice that may be much easier for non-western nations to make. Additionally, the authors offer food for thought for rural sustainable community development in the U. S. ... Read more

Book Description

An excellent knowledge base in soil and water chemistry -the ideal basic text for students of the environmental sciences
In Environmental Soil and Water Chemistry, leading soil and water authority V. P. Evangelou presents a complete overview of the principles and applications of soil science, addressing the subject by viewing the interactions between soil and water as a basis for understanding the nature, extent, and treatment of polluted soil and water. The text opens with a discussion of principles-the fundamental tenets of chemistry needed to understand soil and water quality and treatment of polluted resources-and continues with a look at applications for the control and treatment of soil and water. Suitable for advanced undergraduates and beginning graduate students, this extensive, timely volume covers:
* Water chemistry and mineral solubility; soil minerals and surface chemical properties and their behavior; and electrochemistry and kinetics
* The control of agricultural chemical pollution and land disturbance pollution; colloids and transport processes in soils; and technologies for measuring quality and executing treatment
* Specific chemical contaminants and the procedures for their neutralization
In a world where chemical pollutants pose a grave threat to the earth's natural resources, Environmental Soil and Water Chemistry offers students both an excellent textbook and a handy reference on the wide spectrum of environmental problems they will confront outside the classroom. ... Read more

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Contains fundamental principles in soil-water chemistry
This book covers wide aspects in the field of soil-water chemistry. The topics are covered amazingly in a very smooth manner and serves as a good reference for college seniors and beginning graduate students in environmental sciences. The book covers most of important fundamental principles in soil-water chemistry. The sections are full with displays and tables, and problems, which I found it very helpful. Despite the complexcity of this topic, the author deserves a lot of credits for writing such a great book. I strongly recommend this book. ... Read more

Book Description

Originally published in 1977, this is a classic of the geomorphology literature.

Erosion, transport, and deposition of sediment within river catchments concern a wide range of earth scientists and profoundly affect land management. Upland soil removal engages the attention of soil conservationists, hydraulic engineers deal with fluvial sediment transport and river channel morphology, and patterns of sediment deposition in riverine and coastal lowlands affect navigability, the habitability of valley floors and the distribution of groundwater and minerals.

The author argues persuasively that fluvial geomorphology, sedimentology and stratigraphy provide insights into each of these components of the river basin. ... Read more

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The best Fluvial Geomorph book around...
I have read alot of books on this subject and this is still one of the leaders in having all of the info that you want in one book. All topics are covered and in such detail!!! It is such a valuble tool that someone should republish it for students now.

Very good overview of fluvial processes and geomorpholoy
Designed as a companion for his college course on the subject. Schumm clearly explains the concepts and theories behind fluvial geomorphology. This book should be required reading for all students and practicioners of fluvial sequence stratigraphy. CJ ... Read more

Book Description

Fascinating book introduces grade-school youngsters to industrious ants, tunnel-building earthworms, snails and slugs, beetles, and many other creatures inhabiting the world beneath our feet. Vivid descriptions of how they live, breed and interact; their methods of locomotion, feeding and defense; and the effect they have on the soil in which they live.
... Read more

Book Description

The Handbook of Reference Methods for Plant Analysis is an outstanding resource of plant analysis procedures, outlined in easy-to-follow steps and laboratory-ready for implementation. Plant laboratory preparation methods such as dry ashing and acid and microwave digestion are discussed in detail. Extraction techniques for analysis of readily soluble elements (petiole analysis) and quick test kits for field testing are also presented. This handbook consolidates proven, time tested methods in one convenient source. Plant scientists in production agriculture, forestry, horticulture, environmental sciences, and other related disciplines will find the Handbook a standard laboratory reference.The Handbook was written for the Soil and Plant Analysis Council, Inc., of which the editor is a board member. The council aims to promote uniform soil test and plant analysis methods, use, interpretation, and terminology; and to stimulate research on the calibration and use of soil testing and plant analysis. This reference will help readers reach these important goals in their own research. ... Read more

Book Description

Soil science and natural resource management is continually evolving. Building on the bestselling second edition, Soils and Environmental Quality, 3rd Edition presents an overview of basic soil science, hydrology, and the classification of pollutants. This completely revised and updated standard reference provides detailed discussions on the roles of soils and humans in the biogeochemical cycling of soil contaminants and substances of environmental concern. It includes updated material and new material, including drought impacts, ecological risk assessment, plant nutrient relationships in forest systems, and plant and pesticide relationships in turfgrass systems. ... Read more

Book Description

Create productive soil anywhere with step-by-step instructions for making compost and fertilizers. ... Read more

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Perfectly formatted, easy to read work of gardening art!
I went to the library today to see if they had anything new. I've read about every book our small library has which pertains to gardening. Out of the corner of my eye I happened upon "Secrets to Great Soil." It looked interesting; I checked it out. I am now here at amazon.com to purchase this book. I've been organic gardening for 25 years and in all these many years have not found a book which thoroughly lists organic, inorganic, and synthetic fertilizers in a format which is easy to discern. It is easy to read for anyone, regardless the experience. Both novice and advanced gardeners will enjoy this journey of soil science along with the explanation. I am deeply moved by all the work which went into this highly recommended publication. ... Read more

Book Description

This textbook provides a thorough introduction to the sustainable, productive use of land resources vital in maintaining healthy rivers and good groundwater qualities. Calvin Rose develops a quantitative approach to studying these growing environmental concerns and makes the textbook suitable for introductory university courses, as well as a useful primer for research and management staff in environmental organizations. Each chapter ends with a set of student exercises for which solutions are available from solutions@cambridge.org. ... Read more

Book Description

Recognition of the importance of soil organic matter (SOM) in soil health and quality is a major part of fostering a holistic, preventive approach to agricultural management. Students in agronomy, horticulture, and soil science need a textbook that emphasizes strategies for using SOM managementin the prevention of chemical, biological, and physical problems.Soil Organic Matter in Sustainable Agriculture gathers key scientific reviews concerning issues that are critical for successful SOM management. This textbook contains evaluations of the types of organic soil constituents-organisms, fresh residues, and well-decomposed substances. It explores the beneficial effects of organic matter on soil and the various practices that enhance SOM. Chapters include an examination of the results of crop management practices on soil organisms, organic matter gains and losses, the significance of various SOM fractions, and the contributions of fungi and earthworms to soil quality and crop growth.Emphasizing the prevention of imbalances that lead to soil and crop problems, the text also explores the development of soils suppressive to plant diseases and pests, and relates SOM management tothe supply of nutrients to crops. This book provides the essential scientific background and poses the challenging questions that students need to better understand SOM and develop improved soil and crop management systems. ... Read more

Book Description

The static cone penetrometer (CPT) and the piezocone (CPTU) represents the most versatile tools currently available for in-situ soil exploration. Over the last 30 years there has been significant growth and development in the use of CPT and this is reflected in the impressive growth of the theoretical and experimental knowledge on the cone penetrometer and piezocone as well as in the several applications of the test to highly specialised measurements, e.g. seismic, environmental and electrical resistivity measurements. The purpose of this book is to provide guidance on the specification, performance, use and interpretation of the Electric Cone Penetration Test (CPU), and in particular the Cone Penetration Test with pore pressure measurement (CPTU) commonly referred to as the "piezocone test". Recommendation guidelines interpret a full range of geotechnical parameters from cone penetration data and relevant examples and case histories are given throughout the text. ... Read more

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This is an excellent introductory text on CPT.
This is an excellent introductory text on CPT. It includes information on not only electric cone but also piezocone penetration testing. It provides basic knowledge in all conventional areas of CPT testing and application and extensive references for those interested in obtaining additional information in a particular area. ... Read more

Book Description

Salt-Affected Turfgrass Sites: Assessment and Management will help you identify and pinpoint salinity problems, and give you tools to implement effective management strategies. ... Read more

Book Description

This richly illustrated edition of an established classic deals with the chemistry and biology of soil nutrient availability. Provides information regarding the elements present in soils and the extent to which these elements can be used by plants in order to grow. Nutrient uptake by plant roots, rhizosphere microorganisms and application of the mechanistic uptake model as well as such elements as phosphorus, potassium and water are among the topics discussed. ... Read more

Reviews (1)

Excellent Scientific Piece
It is refreshing to read work with content and information that is useful for those interested in going beyond the surface. Anyone who has taken the time to study this in depth should be complimented. Since nutrition has a major impact on our health and economy I think we all need to pay more attention to what is happening in the food chain. Thank you. ... Read more

Book Description

Our technology-based society demands the use of enormous quantities of heavy metals. Yet society also demands the prevention, and the remediation, of soil contaminated with heavy metals. A unified presentation of recent developments that will help achieve these goals, Geochemical and Hydrological Reactivity of Heavy Metals in Soils discusses new techniques used to analyze the diverse array of surface reactions governed by physical, chemical, and biological processes.The book covers the reaction mechanisms of the component molecules, the linkages between these molecules, and the juxtaposition and spacing of reactive surface functional groups. It highlights analytical techniques for characterizing mobile soil colloids, provides the latest results on important biologically mediated pathways, and reveals how modeling perspectives from molecular to macroscopic levels are all used to gain new insights into metal contaminant processes in the environment. With contributions from a hand-picked panel and the editorial guidance of undisputed experts, the book focuses on the complexity of chemical processes in "real" systems and provides the tools used to understand them. One of the few books that comprehensively illustrates the cause-and-effect relationship of these chemical processes, Geochemical and Hydrological Reactivity of Heavy Metals in Soils is a practical guide for soil and groundwater scientists, ecologists, and government regulators. ... Read more

Book Description

The farmers role is to conduct the symphony of plants and soil. In this book, learn how to coax the most out of your plants by providing the best soil and removing all yield-limiting factors. Schriefer is best known for his "systems" approach to tillage and soil fertility, which is detailed here. Managing soil aeration, water, and residue decay are covered, as well as ridge planting systems, guidelines for cultivating row crops, and managing soil fertility. Develop your own soil fertility system for long-term productivity. ... Read more