Soil analysis results of the 0-6-inch deep lost topsoil for key soil properties and levels. NDSU graphic
A roadside ditch along Highway 2, about 5 miles west of Grand Forks, North Dakota, full of topsoil from the adjoining field that was tilled in fall on Dec. 19, 2021.
The dollar amounts for replacing direct nutrient loss and by losing soil organic matter for 0-6-inch soil depth and for every inch of topsoil. NDSU graphic
Topsoil blowing a mile east of Langdon along Hwy 5 on March 25, 2024. NDSU photo
NDSU researchers have estimated the cost of topsoil lost to natural erosion and tillage practices
LANGDON, N.D. - Losing 6 inches of topsoil could cost farmers more than $6,600 in nutrients and organic matter per acre, according to analysis by North Dakota State University researchers.
Topsoil is the most fertile layer of a soil, rich in microbial activity and essential for crop production. When it …