Soil and Water Science Program at UF

The primary goal of this research program is to develop and validate best management practices for the management of soil, water and nutrients in urban landscapes.  Florida is one of the most rapidly urbanizing states in U.S.  Rapid population growth in FL and conversion of rural lands to low-density residential and commercial uses increases the demand for landscape plants and turf, landscape installation, maintenance and design services as well as retail garden centers.  In 2005, these sectors of the environmental horticulture industry represented $5.26 and $6.97 billion in sales, respectively.  However, urbanization presents challenges to Florida’s natural resources.  For example, Florida’s population growth has resulted in increased water demand for urban landscapes, which equates to less water available for agricultural and recreational land uses.  In addition, fertilization of residential and commercial landscapes is believed to contribute the large nutrient loads to urban water bodies.  Construction practices also have major impacts on the environment when native soils are altered by the use of subsoil fill materials.

For more on Dr. Amy Shober's Current Research