No abstract

The authors explain the need to compile the Red Data Book of soils similar to the existing Red Data Books of plants and animals. The paper reveals some theoretical and methodological approaches from general scientific and regional points of view relevant for the compilation of such works. The main soil objects in the pedosphere of the Kirov region that meet the zonal standards are identified, i.e. rare, unique and endangered soils. These soils are to be included in the environmental documents mentioned above. The results can be used to develop a local network of specially protected natural territories due to a new – pedogenic – category of objects of conservation of natural heritage as part of reserves, micro-reserves, soil monuments of nature. These materials are of interest to the scientific community and environmental services of the Kirov region and other constituent entities of the Russian Federation.