Soil salinity has quietly reshaped agricultural landscapes for decades, posing a growing challenge for farmers and ranchers. Anthony Bly, a seasoned soil scientist and agronomist, unpacks the complex factors behind this issue—how shifts in rainfall patterns, evolving land management practices, and economic pressures have contributed to rising salt levels.

 

Drawing from his career working alongside producers, Anthony shares how past approaches, such as diverse crop rotations and integrated livestock systems, once kept salinity in check. He recalls lessons from the early ’90s at SDSU, when grasslands and perennial systems played a crucial role in managing soil health. But as more land was converted to cropland, water tables rose, bringing salt to the surface.

 

This resource hub is about solutions—practical, research-backed strategies to help farmers and ranchers reclaim their land. From adjusting crop rotations to reintroducing perennials, the path forward lies in understanding the land’s natural processes and working with them.

 

Explore the insights shared here and discover real-world approaches to mitigating soil salinity. With the right knowledge and stewardship, depleted soils can be restored, ensuring productive fields for future generations.