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 2 benchmarks together — the MaximumOnly form drives the primary score, while 1 guard(s) constrain the result.
Contributing Benchmarks
Evidence & Context
The general relationship is that lower compaction is better for ecological health, until it becomes excessively high, thereby restricting root growth and impairing other essential ecological functions. The upper detrimental threshold for overall ecosystem health would thus align closely with, or be slightly above, the point where severe root restriction occurs—approximately 2500–3000 kPa.
Soil penetrometer resistance threshold above which severe root restriction and significant ecological detriment occur.
This benchmark indicates the maximum soil penetration resistance above which severe root restriction and ecological harm occur in temperate dry woodlands and native grasslands under livestock grazing.
This threshold is supported by multiple agricultural guidelines and soil compaction literature indicating significant ecological detriment above this level.
Supporting Sources (5)
Additional references from the underlying research that informed this benchmark.
GRDC National Paddock Survey. Fact Sheet: High soil strength - Diagnosing soil constraints.
View Source
Critical Limits for Soybean and Black Bean Root Growth, Based on ...
View SourcePasture growth
View Sourceopenresearch-repository.anu.edu.au
View SourcePasture yield and soil physical property responses to soil compaction from treading and grazing — a review - ANU Open Research
View Source