Farming in the 21st century demands the latest scientific knowledge and understanding and soils are a key resource of the agricultural production system, but they are suffering.

It is essential that we understand our soils so that we can use and manage them in a productive and sustainable way. Providing farmers with information to optimise cropping systems and cultivation techniques will help to improve soil fertility and prevent erosion.

CHAP has a range of capabilities to maximise soil health, including the Phenotyping and Soil Health Facility at Cranfield University, the Fine Phenotyping Lab and the Molecular Diagnostics Lab at Rothamsted Research, in Harpenden, the Precision Till, Sow and Spray equipment at Stockbridge Technology Centre and the Lab to Field (Mobile Crop Science Labs). All these are designed to help ensure farmers will be able to deliver on the needs of the industry.