The primary objective of this U.S.-Hungary cooperative research project between Dr. Marion Baumgardner of Purdue University and Dr. George Varallyay of the Hungarian Research Institute of Soil Science and Agricultural Chemistry is to study the spectral reflectance of soils in two distinctly different pedogenic environments, one in the California Valley and one in the Carpathian Basin. Two hypotheses will be tested: 1) Variations in reflectance of salt-affected soils is related to the quantity and quality of soluble salts present, organic constituents and their interaction; and 2) these relationships will be different for soils from different environments. Methods will emphasize the monitoring of change and development of prediction models. Results should contribute to our ability to track global changes related to potential soil productivity and environmental quality. This project in earth sciences fulfills the program objectives of advancing scientific knowledge by enabling experts in the United States and Eastern Europe to combine complementary talents and share research resources in areas of strong mutual interest and competence.
