Organic farming scores better on biodiversity and soil composition, according to a review of studies comparing conventional and organic farming by Britain's farming ministry.

ECONOMIST: What the birds and bees say

Phase II, planned for 2011, will identify both aquifers down to 3, 000 meters below the surface, study soil composition and aquifer replenishment, and prioritize areas for agricultural development.

UNESCO: launches initiative to identify groundwater and alleviate water shortages in Iraq | United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization

We can now add soil composition to the list, as Curiosity became Earth's first visitor to the Red Planet to both gather and analyze Martian soil on its own.

ENGADGET: NASA Curiosity rover digs Mars, finds sulfur, chlorine and organic traces of unknown origin

Now, Dr Charters has set about trying to help growers in the Champagne region decide the future of their industry, notably the trend towards smaller, more distinctive brands that reflect a particular "terroir" -- the combination of climate and soil composition that gives a wine its character.

CNN: Learning to lead in Champagne

That instrument will determine the composition of the soil sample.

FORBES: Curiosity Gets Its First Taste Of Martian Soil

It's an article of faith among French winemakers that the composition of the soil and its mineral components are the most important determinants of the character of the resulting wine.

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