Pedology in the USA

“Pedologists trying to survive professionally in the 21st century don’t enjoy the freedoms of Constantin Nikiforoff. There are evermore new methods, procedures and rules and regulations to be considered. But directly observing Living Soils in Living Landscapes remains ‘the point at the horizon’ for future pedology, providing a much-needed echo at this point in time of the work of Constantin Nikiforoff.”

- Johan Bouma

Wageningen University, Netherlands

“Alfred Hartemink continues his studies of the beginnings of soil science in the USA by examining the life and contributions of Constantin Nikiforoff. He was a student of Konstantin Glinka, immigrant, translator of Russian literature, soil mapper for the Bureau of Soils, and author of scientific papers. The book describes the early history of soil mapping, classification, and geography and Constantin Nikiforoff’s connections to American soil scientists. The book is well-written and richly illustrated.”

- Jim Bockheim

University of Wisconsin-Madison, USA

“This is the life story of Constantin Nikiforoff, one of the great pioneers in pedology, who fled Russia to continue his career in the USA. It unearths in detail how excellence of soil science in Russia has benefited developments in the USA. This book is also about digging in the past for understanding contemporary issues. It reads like a novel and is compelling literature for anyone interested in progress in soil science.”

- Jozef (Seppe) Deckers

KU Leuven University, Belgium

“Alfred Hartemink believes that individuals make a difference to the course of history and, therefore, soil science. He is right. And he brings fiery, passionate and tireless energy and scholarship to bear to convert the rest of us.”

- David Dent

Former ISRIC Director. UK

“This is a book for Pedology Thinkers. It couples the virtues of interdisciplinarity to the strong will of obtaining pedogenic evidence and knowledge. This book deserves much applause as it is a biography of the unique Russian American Constantin Nikiforoff, and a compendium of pedological evolution. It travels effortlessly through the emerging field of soil science.“

- Selim Kapur

University of Çukurova, Türkiye

“The biography of Constantin Nikiforoff is a comprehensive review of his remarkable accomplishments and legacy in soil science. The book traces his journey from Russia to the USA and highlights his influential work and dedication. Alfred Hartemink captures the essence of his contributions to the discipline, making it an insightful read into the life of this renowned soil scientist.”

- Maxine J. Levin

Chair SSSA Council on History, Philosophy and Sociology of Soil Science, USA

“Truth is stranger than fiction. You can enjoy the personal history of Constantin Nikiforoff as if you were watching a Russian drama during the revolution, or a Hollywood movie. After reading this book, you will become an eloquent storyteller of Pedology, and it is highly recommended for anyone interested in soil science and its early beginnings.”

- Takashi Kosaki

Kyoto University, Japan

“The book is an exciting story, and it reads like a romantic journey for soil scientists. It reviews the career of Constantin Nikiforoff as well as the history and achievements of pedology. Deep digging into early studies and soil scientists teaches us to respect our past.”

- Erika Micheli

Szent Istvan University, Hungary

“This marvelous biography reminds me that soils have memories that tend to dissipate over time. Constantin Nikiforoff was important to the early development of soil science and well deserves Alfred Hartemink’s scientific account. His book provides new perspectives of early American soil science and in so doing demonstrates the genius and power of 19th century soil concepts that can be designated as Russian.”

- Dan Richter

Duke University, USA

“Constantin Nikiforoff played a pivotal role in the evolution of American soil science. He emphasized the importance of understanding soil in relation to the landscapes and systems that form it—not just as an agricultural resource, but as a living natural body. His views played a key role in shifting soil science from a descriptive discipline to one focused on genesis and dynamic processes. His ideas remain strikingly relevant today.”

- Kate Scow

University of California Davis, USA