Soil management

The objective of soil management is to maintain soils in a physical, chemical and biological condition favourable for crop growth, while minimizing the risks to the environment from potential effects of erosion.

Soil management for B.C. crops

Find out how soil and soil surveys in B.C. came to be and why they are important to agriculture and British Columbians in general:

• The Soil Landscapes of British Columbia

Regionally-focused publications were developed to complement soil surveys. By knowing the soil names from the maps that accompany particular soil surveys, farmers and ranchers can find out about general limitations of specific soils for agriculture, and appropriate management inputs for suited crops. Although the publications describe soils in specific regions, the publications also contain information about managing soils for crop production across British Columbia.

• Soil Management Handbook for the Lower Fraser Valley (PDF, 2.9 MB)
• Soil Management Handbook for the Okanagan and Similkameen Valley (PDF, 3.4 MB)
• Soil Management Handbook for Vancouver Island (PDF)
• Forage Production on Poorly Drained Soils in the Southern Interior of B.C. (PDF, 2.4 MB)

Soil pH

Soil pH affects plants, soil organisms, and the availability of soil nutrients and metals for plant uptake. Because soil pH can be challenging to adjust quickly or after crops have been planted, it is important to understand what adjustments are needed sooner than later. 

• Learn more about Soil pH

Soil erosion control

Erosion represents a loss of productive topsoil due to wind and water. The concern is accelerated erosion of soil that is not well protected. Organic matter and fertile topsoil are lost, in turn affecting water infiltration and evaporation. Ultimately, erosion can decrease crop yields and profitability.

• Read more on soil erosion control