Rangelands make up approximately 80% of New Mexico’s land mass, with soil
serving as the functional foundation. This essential natural resource provides
ecological, economic, and cultural services to the state, highlighting the need for
sustainable soil management. Despite its significance, soil management is often
overshadowed by plant and animal management. However, without healthy soils,
neither plant nor animal life could persist. Soils play a vital role in facilitating
nutrient cycling, water retention and filtration, erosion prevention, and providing
food and habitat for a variety flora and fauna populations.
Rangelands make up approximately 80% of New Mexico’s land mass, with soil
serving as the functional foundation. This essential natural resource provides
ecological, economic, and cultural services to the state, highlighting the need for
sustainable soil management. Despite its significance, soil management is often
overshadowed by plant and animal management. However, without healthy soils,
neither plant nor animal life could persist. Soils play a vital role in facilitating
nutrient cycling, water retention and filtration, erosion prevention, and providing
food and habitat for a variety flora and fauna populations.