Soil Scientists

Total employment for soil and plant scientists is expected to grow 7 percent, faster than the average for all careers, through 2029. Job growth will stem from the need to increase the quality and quantity of food produced for a growing population while developing methods to protect the environment. Opportunities in agronomy, including the career of soil scientist, should be especially good. "Soil and plant scientists will continue to try to understand and map soil composition," the Department of Labor explains. "They will investigate ways to improve soils, to find uses for byproducts, and selectively breed crops to resist pests and disease, or improve taste."

Careers in this field are often affected by the government's involvement in farming studies; as a result, budget cuts at the federal and state levels may potentially limit funding for this type of job. Companies dealing with seed, fertilizers, or farm equipment are examples of private organizations that hire soil scientists.

Technological advances in equipment and methods of conservation will allow scientists to better protect the environment, as well as improve farm production. Scientists' ability to evaluate soils and plants will improve with more precise research methods. Combine-mounted yield monitors will produce data as the farmer crosses the field, and satellites will provide more detailed field information. With computer images, scientists will also be able to examine plant roots more carefully.

A continued challenge facing future soil scientists will be convincing farmers to change their current methods of tilling and chemical treatment in favor of environmentally safer methods. They must encourage farmers to balance increased agricultural output with the protection of our limited natural resources.