A Soil Health Needs Assessment Survey in Arizona

Abstract

A needs assessment survey is an important tool for designing an efficient research-based extension and outreach plan. The Soil Health Research and Extension (SHRE) team at the University of Arizona designed and conducted a statewide soil health needs assessment survey to document stakeholder perceptions, interests, and expectations on soil health research and educational needs. The survey successfully documented essential information from a diverse group of producers, pest control advisors, and other industry members (total respondents 107) that represented the commercial agricultural industry in Arizona. The data confirmed stakeholder interest in soil health research and educational programs and provided the necessary information on their soil health needs to build an effective research-based soil health extension program. The survey outcomes revealed that the respondents are majorly interested in on-farm soil health assessments and learning about soil biology. The respondents also indicated that research demonstrations, workshops, and training events are important to them in adopting new technologies for soil health improvements.