Informing soil compaction research priorities with farmer focus groups in the United States

Abstract

Soil compaction is a widespread form of soil degradation that impacts soil functions and ecosystem services by limiting plant growth, reducing farm profitability, and impeding efforts to improve soil health. While mechanisms by which soil compaction occurs are widely understood, little has improved regarding its management in agroecosystems in the last century. Here, to better inform scientists of farmers’ soil compaction research needs, we implemented focus groups in six growing regions across Texas, Washington, and Wisconsin. In each focus group, farmers completed surveys and participated in guided discussions centered on their soil compaction perceptions, experiences, and ideas. We evaluated surveys and discussion transcripts with quantitative (summary statistics) and qualitative (thematic coding) analyses to assess participants’ observations, questions, and possible management solutions. Results from this work indicate that knowledge gaps, especially regarding identification of critical thresholds for soil compaction at field scale and management options and their efficacies, influence farmers’ adoption of soil compaction management practices. Based on the needs identified in this study, key priorities for soil compaction research and education should include (1) techniques for assessing soil compaction at field scale, including both its presence and thresholds for management, (2) addressing knowledge gaps about controlled traffic farming, tillage, and crops, and (3) continued research and development of requested technologies and practices, including drones, amendments, and cover or perennial crops.