Soil health

Last updated on June 23, 2026

Soil health is the foundation of productive agriculture, resilient ecosystems, and environmental sustainability. Soil health reflects the soil’sHands holding soil capacity to function as a living ecosystem that supports plants, animals, and humans. Healthy soil is more than just dirt. Soil is alive with microorganisms, rich in organic matter, and structured to hold water and nutrients effectively.

When soil is healthy, it supports strong crop growth, reduces the need for chemical inputs, and helps protect against erosion, drought, and disease. It also plays a key role in filtering water, cycling nutrients, and storing carbon, making it essential for both agriculture and climate resilience.

  • Soil health case studiesLearn more about soil management practices that BC producers are using to improve their soil health
  • Assessing soil health: Discover methods to understand the health of your soil and track progress of beneficial management practices
Mapping tools

Find, view and download Terrestrial Ecosystem Information:on maps and data

Find maps and resources to determine if a parcel is within the Agricultural Land Reserve (ALR) boundary:

Useful contacts

AgriService BC

Have a question?  Call or email and a staff person will assist you.

Telephone: 1 888 221-7141

E-mail: AgriServiceBC@gov.bc.ca