Soil Myth Busting Webinar; Carbon, Biology and Rock Dust

  • July 22 2025
    7:00pm - 8:30pm
Book event

There are a lot of myths surrounding soil in agriculture. This webinar will help you to better understand what is true, what is still developing, and how you might or might not see the benefit on your own land.

We will look at three areas in particular:

  • Soil carbon
  • Rock dust
  • Soil biology

There will be presentations by three subject experts who have each spent the time identifying what works, and what you should be careful of. Each expert will give a presentation, after which there will be a chance for you to ask questions of them directly.

This is a great chance for you to identify opportunities on your farm, improve your soil knowledge, and better make use of the resource under your feet.

Speakers

Dr Sarah Buckingham is a senior consultant with SAC Consulting, part of Scotland’s Rural College (SRUC), specialising in soil health, soil carbon and sustainable land management. Her work explores how farming practices influence soils, carbon storage potential and greenhouse gas emissions and how this supports wider natural capital and nature-based solutions. Sarah works closely with farmers, policymakers and industry to facilitate climate-smart solutions on the ground. At this event, she will discuss how managing soils for carbon can support resilient, productive farms while contributing to Scotland’s climate targets—offering clear, evidence-based insights for anyone working in agriculture.

 

 

 

 

Dr Andrew Innes is a senior researcher at Scotland’s Rural College (SRUC), with expertise in soil fertility, nutrient cycling and sustainable land management. His work focuses on bridging the gap between emerging agricultural practices and robust scientific evidence. At this event, Andrew will examine the growing interest in rock dust as a soil amendment in Scotland. Drawing on recent trials and current research, he will provide a critical, evidence-based perspective on its potential benefits and limitations—helping farmers and advisers navigate the claims and make informed decisions grounded in science, not just marketing.

 

 

 

 

 

 

Dr Fiona Fraser is a researcher at Scotland’s Rural College (SRUC), specialising in soil biology and the vital role of living organisms in maintaining healthy, productive soils. Her work explores the complex interactions between soil microbes, invertebrates and plant roots, and how these contribute to nutrient cycling, soil structure, and resilience. At this event, Fiona will highlight the importance of biological diversity in soil health, drawing on current research and practical examples. Her talk will offer valuable insights into how farmers can support and benefit from the hidden life beneath their feet through more biologically informed management.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Linked materials:

Can we store more carbon in our soils? | Helping farmers in Scotland | Farm Advisory Service

What is ‘Rock Dust’ (Enhanced Weathering) and how it can Affect Soil Health and Carbon Sequestration | Helping farmers in Scotland | Farm Advisory Service

Can Biostimulants be used to Support Soil Health? | Helping farmers in Scotland | Farm Advisory Service