Soil Biology Series: Empowering the Community to Build Better Soils
Posted on Jan. 29, 2025 / Soil / Subscribe 0
By: Kyle Franks
The demand for practical methods to enhance soil health remains high, particularly among those maintaining subsistence farming systems. A needs assessment conducted last year revealed that approximately 50% of survey respondents prioritized composting as a key strategy for meeting their agricultural needs. Responding to this insight, a three-part Soil Biology Series was developed and delivered in two cohorts to accommodate high demand despite limited space.
The series provided participants with foundational knowledge and hands-on experiences designed to deepen their understanding of soil microbiology and its applications in sustainable agriculture.
Part One: Foundations of Soil Microbiology
The first session introduced participants to the complex and fascinating world of soil microbiology. Key topics included the major players in the soil ecosystem—bacteria, fungi, nematodes, protozoa, and microarthropods—and the critical role they play in nutrient cycling.
Participants explored how anaerobic conditions develop and learned how oxygen, water, and microbial activity transform dirt into healthy, productive soil. A significant focus was on predator-prey interactions within the soil food web, emphasizing how these dynamics regulate nutrient availability, ensuring plants receive essential nutrients precisely when needed.
The session concluded with practical techniques for creating and applying beneficial aerobic microbiology to gardens and fields, equipping participants with actionable strategies to enhance soil health.
Figure 1. Students exploring fundamental soil biology.
Part Two: Soil Assessment and Microbial Diversity
The second session featured Bianca West, a certified soil technician and graduate of Dr. Elaine Ingham’s Soil Food Web School. With her guidance, participants brought in their own soil samples and learned proper collection methods for accurate analysis.
Using a compound light microscope, students observed live microbial communities in their soil, displayed on a large screen for interactive learning. They gained skills in slide preparation and microbial diversity counting, enabling them to assess soil health independently.
This hands-on experience provided participants with a clear understanding of their soil’s microbial strengths and weaknesses, empowering them to take targeted action toward improving soil fertility.
Figure 2. A look a healthy, diverse compost.
The final session was a practical demonstration of populating and distributing beneficial soil microbiology. Participants began by assessing compost under the microscope to ensure it was biologically active and contained the appropriate microbial "players."
They then created compost extract, a process that takes less than 30 minutes, and learned the steps to brew compost tea for extended application. The group applied the compost extract in a local food forest, sparking in-depth discussions about food production, composting practices, and sustainable farming strategies.
To celebrate their learning journey, participants received a soil biology book and a compost tea lab kit, generously funded by the Department of Hawaiian Home Lands (DHHL), ensuring they could continue their soil-building efforts at home.
This series not only enhanced participants' technical skills but also fostered a deeper appreciation for the intricate connections between soil health and food production. The overwhelmingly positive feedback underscores the importance of accessible, science-based education in empowering communities to create sustainable agricultural systems.
By equipping participants with knowledge and tools, the Soil Biology Series is helping to cultivate a culture of stewardship, where healthy soils form the foundation for resilient, thriving ecosystems.
Figure 3. Cohort 2 students receiving their compost tea kits.
Kyle Franks, Jr. Extension Agent-DHHL, Molokai Cooperative Extension
0 Comments