Australia’s national science agency, CSIRO, has introduced a new online tool designed to enhance the accessibility and interpretation of soil data. The tool, known as the ANSIS Visualiser, aims to assist farmers, land managers, and policymakers in better managing soil health and sustainability. This initiative is part of the Australian National Soil Information System (ANSIS), which was launched in 2023 to unify soil data from various sources across Australia.
The ANSIS Visualiser employs color coding to illustrate variations in soil properties, such as pH levels and soil organic carbon content, across different regions of Australia. This innovative approach allows users to quickly grasp complex soil information, facilitating improved understanding and management practices.
According to Peter Wilson, a soil scientist and project leader at CSIRO, the Visualiser tool transforms intricate soil data into clear visual insights. “This new tool will provide policymakers, researchers, and land managers with a clear view of the soil data and information they need to better manage, restore, and protect Australia’s soils,” Wilson stated. He highlighted the challenge many face in interpreting soil data, saying, “Soil data are often complex and hard to interpret, so this new tool can help people better understand their soil and make better management decisions.”
Users of the Visualiser can instantly compare soil measurements at one site with those from surrounding areas. The tool also features graphical representations to help users easily interpret changes in soil properties with depth.
Supporting National Soil Action Initiatives
The ANSIS initiative aligns with the Australian Government National Soil Action Plan 2023-2028, which prioritizes actions related to soil measurement, strategy integration, adoption of best practices, and capacity building. Wilson emphasized the critical role of soil in supporting Australia’s agriculture and biodiversity. “Soil is the backbone of Australia’s agriculture, biodiversity, and many priority ecosystem services,” he remarked. “By measuring soils and providing access to data via ANSIS, we can better understand the impacts we are having on soil health and their ability to function in providing necessary services.”
Wilson underscored the importance of soil management for future generations, asserting, “Caring for soil today ensures food and environmental security for future generations.”
The development of the ANSIS Visualiser was made possible through funding from the Australian Government Natural Heritage Trust, in collaboration with the Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry.
Farmers, land managers, and policymakers are encouraged to visit the ANSIS website to explore the Visualiser tool and utilize its features for enhanced soil management. This initiative represents a significant step towards fostering sustainable practices and ensuring the health of Australia’s vital soil resources.
