Soil Science Society of America

The Soil Science Society of America (SSSA), is the largest soil-specific society in the United States. It was formed in 1936 from the merger of the Soils Section of the American Society of Agronomy and the American Soil Survey Association. The Soils Section of ASA became the official Americas section of the International Union of Soil Sciences in 1934, a notable role which SSSA continues to fulfill.

The mission of the Society is: "1) to enhance the sustainability of soils, the environment, and society by integrating diverse scientific disciplines and principles in soil science for the wise stewardship of soil and natural resources, and 2) to advance the discovery, practice, and profession of soil science through excellence in the acquisition and application of knowledge to address challenges facing society, in the training and professional development of soil scientists, and in the education of, and communication to a diverse citizenry."

Publications SSSA publishes peer-reviewed scholarly journals, magazines, and books for a variety of audiences. SSSA publications are available in the ACSESS Digital Library.

The SSSA certification programs are voluntary and offer similar benefits to the public as licensing programs. The certification programs set standards for knowledge, skills, and conduct that define the professions of soil science (Certified Professional Soil Scientist - CPSS) and soil classification (Certified Professional Soil Classifier - CPSC). These certifications provide clients, employers, and government agencies with a tool to help them choose professionals with the necessary skills to meet their needs.

SSSA completed an assessment of the grand challenges facing the soil science discipline in 2011, identifying the most critical future research needs in soil science: climate change; food and energy security; waste treatment and water quality; and human and ecosystem health. More information on the grand challenges in soil science, including a list of short-, medium-, and long-term research goals, is available online.

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