Soil at the Center: Linking the Water, Nitrogen, and Carbon Cycles

Learn how soil is the central meeting point of the water, nitrogen, and carbon cycles. Explore how water movement regulates carbon storage and nitrogen transformations, how soil microbes connect all three cycles, and how soil structure and management influence productivity, water quality, and climate outcomes. The session highlights why healthy soils are essential for resilient ecosystems and climate-smart land use.

UC Master Gardener Presenter Nick Landolfi: Nick is a Research Immunologist and lifelong gardener who became a Master Gardener upon his retirement from the biotechnology industry. He is a Soil Specialist, staffs the Master Gardener Helpline, and is a volunteer gardener at the Fair Oaks Adult Activity Center in Redwood City.  He frequently lectures on Soil Science and Best Gardening Practices, and enjoys maintaining his vegetable beds, herb gardens, grape vines and fruit trees, as well as caring for a Japanese garden with a koi pond.