The SQMS test kit contains a set of practical tools for on-farm monitoring of soil quality. The tools measure soil properties that reflect the seven key issues of soil management listed above.

These simple, practical measures of soil properties are called Indicators of soil quality. A list of the tools and methods used to measure the soil quality indicators are included in the SQMS user manual.

Test kits are available at cost from Crop & Food Research for NZ $600 plus postage and handling. This price is subject to change depending on the availability of materials and assembly costs. For replacement parts contact the SQMS project manager at SQMSAdmin.

To order a SQMS test kit, click here.

Note: Neighbouring farmers or farmer groups may wish to share a test kit. For more information on test kit availability in your area please contact the SQMS project manager (SQMSAdmin) or the Foundation for Arable Research (FAR) project coordinator by phone (03 325 6353), fax (03 325 6354) or email (far@far.org.nz).

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SQMS user manual

The SQMS user manual provides instructions on the use of the SQMS test kit. This includes how to set up an on-farm soil monitoring programme, and guidelines on when and where to do the soil tests.

We strongly recommend that new users attend an official SQMS training day to ensure that they obtain the best possible results.

The user manual includes:

• guidelines for establishing a soil monitoring programme,
• information on the inherent soil properties (e.g. texture, organic matter) that are useful for interpreting SQMS indicator results,
• instructions on how to carry out the SQMS indicator measurements,
• general interpretations and recommendations for each indicator

More detailed interpretations of the test kit results and management recommendations are available through the SQMS decision support website. Click here (under development) to review a demonstration of the SQMS decision support website.

How do I get a copy of the SQMS user manual?
Downloadable PDF file
To download a copy of the SQMS Manual (PDF format), click here. NB this is a large file (2.82 Mb). It may take several minutes to complete the download. You will require Adobe Acrobat to view this file. Click on the Adobe Acrobat icon for a free download of this software.

Printed Copies
Bound, full colour copies of the user manual can be ordered directly from Crop & Food Research (NZ $35).

Other items available from Crop & Food Research include:

1. SQMS test kits
2. Extra weatherproof SQMS field guides
3. Extra SQMS data recording forms

To order one or more of these items, click here.

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SQMS training:

• We strongly recommend that farmers and agricultural consultants attend an official SQMS training day before starting a monitoring programme.
• Current registered users who have attended a training day can request a review of their SQMS results for validation.
• The availability of training days will depend on user demand. There is likely to be a small charge for attending the training days. The cost of the training days will depend on the availability of industry support.

To register your interest in attending a training day, click here. For more information on training days contact the SQMS project manager at SQMSAdmin.

Terms of Use Copyright � 2002 New Zealand Institute for Crop & Food Research Limited Private Bag 4704 Christchurch, New Zealand
While every care has been taken when preparing this system, no liability will be accepted by the New Zealand Institute for Crop & Food Research Limited for any loss or damage suffered as a result of applying the information contained in this document.