Rotational Grazing Can Build Soil Carbon, but Drought Changes the Story
A decade-long grazing study shows that management can improve soil carbon and nutrient dynamics, but drought and year-to-year weather remain major drivers of soil health.
Wednesday, August 26, 2026
A decade-long grazing study shows that management can improve soil carbon and nutrient dynamics, but drought and year-to-year weather remain major drivers of soil health.
Drainage can increase some soil health indicators while reducing pasture productivity, showing why higher values are not always better.
Soil health practices may not improve farm profitability immediately. A study of eight Georgia cotton farms shows how financial benefits can emerge gradually as growers adapt management, reduce input costs, and move beyond the initial expenses of adopting cover crops and reduced tillage.
Soil health improves with better management, but climate, texture, irrigation, and manure history shape the response.
Summer cover crops increased soil organic matter and labile carbon pools in sandy subtropical vegetable soils.
Diversified crop and livestock systems can rebuild soil physical function in sandy soils, especially below the surface.