Evaluating Land Management Options to Optimize Soil Organic Matter Retention in Oxisols: Case Studies Involving Brazil and Hawaii

Abstract

Oxisols are extremely weathered soils developed largely across equatorial regions. Emerging agricultural land management techniques address soil degradation caused by conventional tillage, nutrient neglect, and other agronomic issues. In Brazil, no-till systems support the maintenance of an epipedon residue protective layer that improves soil organic matter contents, strengthens soil structures, fosters nutrient provision, and the development of a robust soil biology community. Growing awareness by Brazilian producers focuses on soil enrichment to enhance crop productivity but also to support ecosystem services and other facets associated with soil health. In Hawaii, the nearly total decline of sugarcane and pineapple production has left large acreages of land that have suffered long-term soil erosion and nutrient impoverishment. The Hawaiian agricultural community is attempting to support the state’s food security, primarily by creating small-acreage farms that produce an amazing diversity of foods and center soil sustainability around utilizing locally proven soil health techniques. Both entities have community-based extension services, compelling research components, and producer-oriented digital tool offerings.