Dr. Bradley Miller leads the Geospatial Laboratory for Soil Informatics, focusing on digital soil mapping and soil geomorphology. Dr. Miller’s research seeks to improve soil maps to enable property owners and farmers to make informed decisions about their land use. Soil maps provide insights into soil erosion potential, nutrient levels, and other factors affecting the health of ecosystems. Soil maps play a role in water resource management by indicating different soil types’ permeability and drainage characteristics. This information helps design effective water irrigation systems, manage water runoff, and prevent waterlogging. In addition, proper knowledge of soil conditions is crucial for designing structures that can withstand the local environmental conditions. Overall, spatial soil information is crucial for developing strategies to protect and manage natural resources, especially in agriculture.

Soil maps are critical for monitoring changes in soil resources over time. Soil management, by definition, changes soil. Different soil management practices can lead to degradation, such as loss of soil structure, nutrient content, and erosion. However, management practices can also improve soil resilience, supporting better soil water dynamics and nutrient supply. This information is vital for sustainable land management practices and helps identify areas where soil conservation measures may be needed.

Dr. Miller also contributes to the educational mission of Iowa State University by helping students and professionals understand the diversity of soils and their implications for various applications. Soil maps are valuable resources for decision-making in agriculture, land use planning, environmental management, water resource management, construction, and related fields.

 

Awards

• Dean’s Citation for Extraordinary Contributions to the College of Agriculture and Life Sciences, 2023
• Dean’s Citation Team Award, College of Agriculture and Life Sciences, 2022
• Early Achievement in Research Award, College of Agriculture and Life Sciences, 2021
• Dan Yaalon Young Scientist Medal, International Union of Soil Sciences, 2018
• Citation for Excellence in Manuscript Review, Soil Science Society of America Journal, 2015