EARTH502

In this paper students initially gain practical experience in large-scale soil mapping and in evaluating land-use capability (LUC) on a research farm. They then examine various issues associated with land use, especially its intensification, including the management of farm dairy effluent, soil degradation, and soil contamination. Soil quality is also appraised in this context. Together these topics provide an integrated understanding of some of the important issues involved with land use and the role of soil science in guiding management decisions to help reduce or mitigate environmental risks associated with particular land uses.