Plant-Microbe Symbiosis

Soils are the keystone of healthy and vibrant ecosystems, providing physical, chemical, and biological substrates and functions necessary to support life. In particular, it's the extensive and elaborate matrix of soil microorganisms and other life forms that contributes to soil health and utility. But soils are under constant threat from heavy use, changing climate, and in some cases poor management. In view of soil’s key role and threatened status, we believe that there is a need for the scientific community to undertake coordinated research and development efforts that will lead to a unique asset: a National Living Soil Repository.