Preface:Soil and Water Management

Soil and water form the basis of all terrestrial life. Their resources vary widely and are affected by natural and anthropogenic perturbations. Ancient civilizations and cultures emerged and sustained on good soils; and some of them went into oblivion when soil and water resources were degraded irreversibly. Even during the contemporary period, good-quality soil and water resources form a powerful engine of economic development and ensured food security.