ABSTRACT
In the early 1930s, the visionary J. N. "Ding" Darling began to put forth ideas and concepts about conservation that are topics for some researchers, conservationists and agencies. Mr. Darling, employed by the Des Moines Register, published his innovative ideas on conservation as a syndicated cartoonist. His work was widely circulated by the national press, elevating the public's consciousness about conservation issues and contributing to passage of national legislation on soil and water conservation. The shift to an urban society will have profound effects on soil and water conservation and the role played by the soil scientist. Soil scientists need to be associated with organizations and organizational names that clearly indicate the relevance of soil science to urban as well as agricultural concerns. Technology of resource management, whether voluntarily applied or mandated, will be an important role of the soil scientist.
