The biology in soil is Earth's workforce creating the necessary attributes required for a sturdy, sustainable soil health structure. These microorganisms form aggregates in the soil essential to plant health, carbon sequestration, water retention, and ultimately planetary resilience.
Soil health plays a distinct role in natural processes of removing carbon from the atmosphere and storing it in other forms such as trees, perennial vegetation, and belowground. Without beneficial microbes to process the carbon, it is easily released back into the air.
Did you know for every 1 percent increase in organic matter in the top cubic foot of soil, you increase water retention at a rate of 131,680 quarts per acre? It's a fact that soil health systems reduce the risk of flooding, and make crops and ecofriendly landscapes more tolerant to drought.
Bacteria, fungi, nematodes, insects, earthworms, and more all play a role in the soil health ecosystem. Larger organisms digest organic matter into smaller bits so microorganisms can break down further. If maintained, this symbiotic relationship is a never ending virtuous circle.
Complex biodiverse soil systems are hostile environments for weeds, diseases, and pest. These soils are highly oxygenated, alkaline pH, and loaded with beneficial microorganisms. As crops and landscapes grow, these microorganisms coat the entire plant from root to fruit or vegetable to leaves and flowers.
Each layer of soil acts as a filter of contaminates blocking particulate matter and other pollutants that penetrate into the ground. In return the microorganisms in the soil system process the contaminates allowing fresh water to return to our aquifers. The better the biology, the cleaner the water.
This image from earth.com says it all. Each person on this planet is holding its future in their hand. The good news is through subtle changes we can make huge strides in ensuring our future and those that come after us. At Baridown we truly believe if you save the soil, you save the Planet.