Determining Soil Quality Indicators in No-tillage Farming Practices in Western Kentucky

Abstract No-till farming practice is a widely adopted conservation practice that minimizes soil disturbance, improves soil health, and allows the soil to keep its structure complex, helps in water retention despite the soil being washed away. The objective of this study was to assess important soil properties such as Soil water holding capacity (SWHC), Bulk Density (BD), Soil water content at field capacity (SWFC), Macroporosity, Total porosity, Soil organic matter (SOM), and Soil pH. These soil parameters are critical indicators of soil structure, water retention, and overall soil quality which can directly affect crop productivity. The study was conducted in no-till Pullen farm which is in western Kentucky except for soybean which has been tilled in 2024. The fields used were Corn, Soybean, Mable Garden, Community Garden, Rain Garden, and woodlands. This site has been under no-tillage practice for the past 10-20 years. Undisturbed soil cores were sampled from the soil at 0-7cm depth to measure bulk density, macro porosity, total porosity, and WHC. Disturbed soil samples were collected randomly around the undisturbed soil to measure SOM, and pH. A total of six fields were used with four replications in each plot so there were 24 soil samples. After sampling, the soil samples were brought to the laboratory for analysis. The soil data was analyzed statistically. The results will be described in detail on the poster. This research provides valuable information for farmers and land managers seeking to enhance soil health and improve long-term conservation practices for sustainable agriculture. Keywords: Bulk density, Macroporosity, No-till, Soil water holding capacity, Soil organic matter