Pedology in the USA - Life and works of C.C. Nikiforoff (1886-1979)

Constantin Nikiforoff was educated by premier Russian soil scientists but fled after the 1917 revolution. A refugee with no formal credentials or documentation, he arrived in the USA in 1921. He was hired in 1927 and started surveying and studying soils across the country. He was erudite, critical, and wrote several influential papers. In some ways, he was ahead of his time; in others, his ideas were later proven incorrect. Yet, in all respects, he was a distinctive researcher whose work left a lasting mark on the field of American soil science. This richly illustrated book explores the life and works of Constantin Nikiforoff against the backdrop of soil science advancements during the first half of the twentieth century.

   Biography of the Russian American pedologist Constantin Nikiforoff
   Chronicles his life, works, and influence on American soil science
   Richly illustrated with a collection of unique photos
   A fascinating read for anyone interested in the history of science

List of contents

1. Russian and American pedology.- 2. From Russia to Minnesota (1886-1931).- 3. Soil Survey.- 4. Paleosols, soil structure and hardpans.- 5. Soil carbon, climate change.- 6. Later Life (1957-1979).- Epilogue.- Index.

About the author

Alfred Hartemink, a native of the Netherlands, is professor of soil science at the University of Wisconsin - Madison where he teaches Pedology, and Earth’s Soil. His research focuses on novel ways to explore the soil profile, proximal soil sensors, and the management of soil carbon in natural and agricultural ecosystems. He is also the author of historical works on soil science, including the highly acclaimed Soil Science Americana (Springer, 2021).

Summary

“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

Product details

• Authors: Alfred Hartemink, Alfred E Hartemink, Alfred E. Hartemink
• Publisher: Springer, Berlin
• Languages: English
• Product format: Hardback
• Release: 13.10.2025
• EAN: 9783032003317
• ISBN: 978-3-0-3200331-7
• No. of pages: 256
• Illustrations: XVI, 256 p. 68 illus., 19 illus. in color.
• Series: Springer Biographies
• Subjects: Natural sciences, medicine, IT, technology > Geosciences > Geology; Soziologie, Soil Science, Biographical Research, Soil Classification, Soil Science History, Soil Survey, Bureau of Soils, Chernozems, Soil Mapping