Pedology (Soil Science) at the British Association

Abstract

THE assignment of pedology (or soil science as it is still, unfortunately, termed) to Section M (Agriculture) of the British Association is the natural outcome of its historical development from a branch of agricultural chemistry. But although, in its applied aspect, it has the closest and most vital connexion with agriculture, it is to be feared that it is not entirely at home in the agricultural section. Indeed, if the geologists could be persuaded to adopt it, pedology might more fittingly find a home in Section C. It is probably the exception rather than the rule for papers or discussions to be interesting, or even intelligible, to all attending members, even in the senior sections of the British Association. Section M, however, is expected to be more popular in its appeal, and it might be better in future years to introduce pedology in the form of joint meetings with other sections. Problems of applied pedology might still be assigned to Section M.