Soil Structure & Compaction
Benchmark Value
Scoring Curve
This curve shows how a field measurement for this indicator would score across all available benchmark forms in this context. The scoring engine uses 8 benchmarks together — the OptimalRange form drives the primary score, while 7 guard(s) constrain the result.
Evidence & Context
Based on this evidence, the critical threshold for a degraded state in this specific biome and land use is defined as a penetration resistance consistently exceeding 3000 kPa in the primary root zone (0-30 cm) when the soil is moist (i.e., at or near field capacity).
Penetration resistance consistently exceeding 3000 kPa in the primary root zone (0-30 cm) when the soil is moist.
This benchmark defines a critical threshold for soil compaction in arid inland floodplains under livestock grazing, indicating a degraded state where soil structure is severely compromised and root growth is restricted.
Indicates that the combined pressures of grazing have overwhelmed the soil's natural self-amelioration capacity and biologically maintained porosity.
Sources (1)
Do regenerative grazing management practices improve vegetation and soil health in grazed rangelands? Preliminary insights from a space-for-time study in the Great Barrier Reef catchments, Australia - ResearchGate, accessed July 17, 2025
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