is important to acknowledge, however, that sensor‐based measurements provide either high‐resolution spatial or temporal data, but usually not both. With further technological advancement, sensor‐based measurements may ultimately provide real‐time control of input applications.
Summary
Soil health assessments should provide useful insights into the status of soil properties as they affect critical soil functions. Currently there is no single best method for soil health assessment because outcomes are intrinsically related to evaluator decisions related to method, time, location, and frequency of sampling. Multiple research endeavors are underway focused on improving assessments by tailoring collection, analysis, and data interpretation to inherent site attributes, project resources, intended data uses, and evaluator expertise.
Acknowledgments
We thank Robyn Duttenhefner for her helpful edits to improve an earlier draft of the chapter.
The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) prohibits discrimination in all its programs and activities on the basis of race, color, national origin, age, disability, and where applicable, sex, marital status, family status, parental status, religion, sexual orientation, genetic information, political beliefs, reprisal, or because all or part of an individual’s income is derived from any public assistance program. (Not all prohibited bases apply to all programs.). USDA is an equal opportunity provider and employer. Mention of commercial products and organizations in this manuscript is solely to provide specific information. It does not constitute endorsement by USDA‐ARS over other products and organizations not mentioned.
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