Breaking It down: Effects of long-term grazing on soil health properties in degraded agricultural soil
Date
2025
Authors
Saatchi, Elise
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Journal ISSN
Volume Title
Publisher
University Of Victoria
Abstract
Long-term grazing is increasingly recognized as a valuable tool for improving soil health in degraded agricultural landscapes. This study examines the effects of a three-year managed grazing system on soil microbial communities, organic matter, and decomposition processes at the Sandown Centre for Regenerative Agriculture in North Saanich, BC. Using the Tea Bag Index (TBI) and direct soil assessments, we measured bacterial and fungal biomass, soil compaction, total organic carbon, and pH. Results indicate that long-term grazing promotes microbial succession, with increased fungal and bacterial biomass and improved soil structure. Higher bacterial dominance correlated with enhanced decomposition of labile organic matter, while increased fungal population suggests early-stage soil regeneration. Improved soil aeration from reduced compaction and higher organic carbon content further supports beneficial microbial activity. While findings highlight positive soil health trends, continued monitoring and study replication is necessary to confirm long-term impacts and ensure balanced microbial community structure. These results contribute to understanding regenerative grazing as a strategy for restoring soil function and resilience in degraded landscapes.
Description
Keywords
soil, agriculture, grazing, microbes, decomposition, regeneration