Cornell Soil Health Assessment Framework As a Tool for Restoring Soil Health.

The Cornell Soil Health Assessment Framework was developed to (i) gain measured information on overall soil health status and (ii) identify specific constraints to soil functioning that can be addressed through management interventions. The central aspect of the Framework is a soil health test that measures physical, biological, and chemical soil indicators, which were selected based on their ability to represent critical soil processes, consistent and reproducible values, and reasonable cost of analysis. The results of the test informs a process of developing a soil health management plan, which often occurs as a collaborative effort between a consultant and grower.  The use of the test results with and supporting information can then result in improved management on the farm. In general, key aspect of the Assessment Framework are the reliance on measured values for multi-functional indicators, high levels of information in support of decision-making , a process for sorting through holistic management options, and reasonable sampling and analytical efforts. We will discuss further details on the Framework and its evolution.