Natural Productive Potential of Soils and Its Realization in Crop Growing in Tver Oblast

A methodology for a comprehensive assessment of the natural productive potential of soils is presented. This methodology is based on the integration of climatic parameters, soil properties, and ecosystem characteristics; the theoretical distinction between various forms of biological productivity; and the cartographic presentation of the results in a geoinformation system within the boundaries of both natural and administrative territorial units, taking into account the types of land use. A system of basic terms is proposed: soil productive potential, actual biological productivity (realized part of the soil productive potential), potential biological productivity (natural productive potential), and added biological productivity (an increment owing to applied agrotechnological measures). Using Tver oblast of European Russa as an example, the methodology for cartographic assessment of potential biological productivity (based on the aboveground phytomass production of natural ecosystems) and actual biological productivity (based on crop yields) has been tested. According to the Ecosystem Productivity in Northern Eurasia database, the productivity of natural ecosystems (annual aboveground phytomass increment) is 3.3–7.6 t/ha, while grain yields in 2012–2021 were 1.1–1.6 t/ha (plus 1.1–2.1 t/ha of by-products). The comparison between these values attests to a significant potential for intensifying agricultural production in the region. Knowledge of the spatial and temporal factors influencing potential and actual biological productivity is necessary for improving agricultural sustainability, justifying land use intensification, and maintaining biodiversity. Overall, the methodology enables quantitative data comparison and the development of algorithms for solving various problems of assessing the productive potential of soils.