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.
Evidence & Context
Multiple government agency guides and research papers identify a threshold of approximately 300 pounds per square inch (psi). Converted to SI units, this is equivalent to approximately 2068 kPa, often rounded to 2.0 MPa.
Penetrometer resistance value representing mechanical impedance to plant root growth.
This benchmark represents the critical soil compaction threshold beyond which plant root growth is severely limited in tropical and subtropical maritime island soils under livestock grazing and pasture.
This threshold is a robust indicator of severe dysfunction because it reflects a physical state that fundamentally constrains the biological potential of the ecosystem, regardless of minor variations in soil type or moisture.
Sources (4)
Review Paper AS THE SOIL RESISTANCE TO PENETRATION AFFECTS THE DEVELOPMENT OF AGRICULTURAL CROPS?
View SourceSoil Research - CSIRO PUBLISHING
View Source
Soil health - Department for Environment and Water
View SourceSupporting Sources (1)
Additional references from the underlying research that informed this benchmark.
Comparing the effects of continuous and time-controlled grazing systems on soil characteristics in Southeast Queensland - CSIRO Publishing
View Source