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Dep. of Soil and Crop Sciences, Colorado State University, Fort Collins, CO 80523-1170
(neil.hansen{at}colostate.edu)
Frederick R. Troeh and Louis M. Thompson. Blackwell Publishing, 2121 State Avenue, Ames, Iowa 50014. 2005. 489p. $89.99. ISBN number: 0-8138-0995-X.
Soils and Soil Fertility is an introductory soil science textbook that also includes a fairly extensive discussion of the principles of soil fertility management. This is the sixth edition of a very widely used and well accepted introductory soil science text book. The history and development of this textbook and its various versions represent the extensive knowledge of experienced teachers and practitioners of soil science. This newest edition has been updated with current literature citations. This addition has also been expanded to include examples and application of soil science to subject areas beyond the traditional agricultural audience.
Soils and Soil Fertility was originally published in 1937 and has been updated and revised numerous times. In this sixth edition, the authors have blended the text to represent both historical and the current knowledge in soil science. They include key references throughout the text and list references at the conclusion of each chapter. References used are selected from several decades of literature and include numerous references to publications from recent years.
Although Soils and Soil Fertility is true to its earlier versions in focusing on agricultural applications of soil science, this version includes examples and principles useful for students interested in landscape and turfgrass sciences, horticulture, and environmental areas. The text book includes chapters focused on land use and soil management, water management, soil erosion, and soil pollution. Unique among traditional introductory soil science texts is the inclusion of a chapter on Soil Mechanics that addresses typical engineering applications of soil science. This is a very beneficial addition to the text and will provide good background to students whether they pursue engineering further or not.
The broad coverage of soil science and soil fertility topics makes Soils and Soil Fertility a good text book for students that will likely take only one soil science course. The book includes a glossary of terms and a comprehensive index, both of which will be useful for students. The authors make extensive use of supportive tables and figures that compliment the text. The book is presented in a two column per page format and is entirely printed in black and white. Although this style is not flashy, the content is complete and it reads well. A list of questions is included at the conclusion of each chapter to assist students in reviewing key points. The book does not contain problem sets or solutions.
In summary, Soils and Soil Fertility is a tried and true introductory soil science text book. This latest version has been updated with the current state of knowledge and has been expanded to meet the needs of non-traditional soil science students including those in landscape, turf science, horticulture, environmental sciences, and engineering. The book combines introductory soil science principles with introductory soil fertility management. The text book is not flashy in presentation, but is very complete and thorough, promising students who study it an excellent exposure to the principles of soil science and soil management.
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