The US Department of Agriculture defines soil health as “the continued capacity of soil to function as a vital living ecosystem that sustains plants, animals, and humans.” But what does the term mean in practice, and why does it matter for human health, agricultural productivity, and ecosystem resiliency? Join Resources for the Future (RFF) and Cornell University’s Atkinson Center for Sustainability as we explore these questions and highlight the important role of soil health in finding climate solutions.
The event will open with a short primer on soil health, including an overview of the current health of US soils, what healthier soils might look like in future, and how research suggests we can foster such improvements. A panel of experts will share perspectives from various sectors—government, industry, and the conservation community—on how practices, technologies, and policies related to soil health are evolving.
Speakers
Maria Bowman, Soil Health Partnership
Sally Flis, The Fertilizer Institute
Eileen McLellan, Environmental Defense Fund
Under Secretary Bill Northey, US Department of Agriculture
Harold van Es, Cornell University
Moderator: Ann M. Bartuska, Resources for the Future
When: Tuesday, December 17, 9:30 a.m.–10:30 a.m.; doors will open and a light breakfast will be served at 9:00 a.m.
Where: Resources & Conservation Center, 1400 16th St. NW, Washington, DC, 20036
Visit the event webpage for more information.