National data tool to aid Australian soil conservation

Canberra [Australia], June 27: Australia's national science agency has launched a new national data tool to aid sustainable management of soil.
The Australian National Soil Information System (ANSIS) connects multiple data sources to provide accurate and nationally consistent soil data and information, allowing researchers, farmers and policymakers to better manage and protect the critical natural resource.
Peter Wilson, the ANSIS project leader at the Commonwealth Scientific and Industrial Research Organisation (CSIRO), said on Tuesday that the launch of the project was an important step forward for soil management across Australia.
"Soil is the backbone of our food security, and it is critical that we manage it effectively for climate change adaptation and economic and environmental prosperity to support national and global agrifood priorities," he said in a speech to the Soil Science Australian Conference.
"This new system brings together all this information, providing easy access to soil data and information that will underpin the effective management of soil," he said.
Farmers will be able to use the tool to compare their soil with others in the region and track how soil changes over time to inform land management decisions.
For governments and industries, ANSIS data will support the development of effective soil conservation policies.
The platform is funded by the federal Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry under the Australian Government's National Soil Strategy.
"It represents a major advance in implementation of the National Soil Strategy," Penelope Wensley, Australia's National Soils Advocate, said.
"Good data, available in a consistent, accessible form, is essential for better understanding and management of Australia's soil," she said.
Source: Xinhua