Anthropogenic Soils (Progress in Soil Science) - Comprehensive

In this review of Anthropogenic Soils (Progress in Soil Science), the reviewer finds a focused, scholarly synthesis intended for professionals and advanced students who need a state-of-the-art reference on human-altered ground. The book's single biggest reason to buy is its comprehensive coverage of the physical, chemical and mineralogical properties of anthropogenic soils along with practical discussion of genesis, morphology and management strategies. It reads like a concise reference volume rather than an introductory textbook, making it most valuable for researchers, reclamation specialists and planners seeking a single authoritative review.

Key Features

• Comprehensive review: Presents an integrated overview of the physical, chemical and mineralogical properties of anthropogenic soils to inform research and practice.
• Genesis and morphology: Explains the formation processes and observable structure of human-influenced soils so readers can better interpret site histories.
• Classification guidance: Offers approaches to classify anthropogenic soils which helps professionals standardize descriptions across projects.
• Geocultural context: Places soils in their cultural and land-use settings so planners and environmental managers can align remediation with social factors.
• Reclamation strategies: Discusses practical strategies for reclamation, revitalization and sustainable use to guide restoration planning.
• Reference orientation: Compiles current thinking and literature in one volume for quick consultation during fieldwork or design.

Who It's For

This title is aimed at soil scientists, environmental consultants, land reclamation professionals and advanced graduate students who need a concentrated review of how anthropogenic processes alter soil properties and what that means for management. Its emphasis on mineralogy, chemistry and morphology suits readers who already have baseline soil science training and need technical context for remediation projects.

Readers seeking an introductory textbook, step-by-step laboratory protocols, or popular treatment for a general audience should look elsewhere; the book assumes familiarity with core soil science concepts and functions as a specialist synthesis rather than a beginner's primer.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Authoritative synthesis of physical, chemical and mineralogical aspects useful for technical decision making.
• Practical focus on reclamation, revitalization and management that bridges research and applied work.
• Contextual treatment of geocultural settings helps integrate environmental and social considerations.

Cons

• Not written as an introductory text, so newcomers to soil science may find it dense and assume prior knowledge.

Specifications

Title	Anthropogenic Soils (Progress in Soil Science)
Author / Brand	Jeffrey Howard
Scope	Physical, chemical and mineralogical properties; genesis and morphology
Applied topics	Reclamation, revitalization, use and management strategies
Context	Geocultural setting and classification approaches
Intended audience	Researchers, professionals and advanced students in soil science

Our Verdict

Anthropogenic Soils is a focused, high-value reference for professionals and advanced students who need a concise synthesis of how human activities change soil properties and what that implies for classification and reclamation. Its strength is the integrated treatment of physical, chemical and mineralogical aspects combined with practical management discussion, making it a worthwhile addition to a practitioner or research library despite being less suitable for beginners.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does this book cover practical reclamation methods?
Yes. It includes discussion of reclamation, revitalization and management strategies linked to soil properties and site context.

Is this book suitable for undergraduate courses?
Not as a primary textbook; it is better used as a supplemental reference for advanced courses or graduate seminars.

Who is the author?
The work is published under the series Progress in Soil Science with content attributed to Jeffrey Howard.