Scientific and local classification and management of soils

Abstract

This paper examines the similarities and differences between the soil classifications and management approaches of farmers and scientists. The authors address the trend in previous studies to focus on how farmers classify the soils rather than on how the farmers use their classifications in soil and land use management. There is much more value in understanding local soil classifications in the context of crops, climate, subsistence needs, fertility, market demand, and cultural norms of the society.