EJP SOIL SANCHOSTHIRST Soil Dataset – 15 Paired sites

This dataset forms part of the H2020 EJP-SOIL project SANCHOSTHIRST, which investigates soil degradation and the role of cover crops in semi-arid vineyards and olive groves across 15 sites in Spain. Data set represents soil physicochemical and biological properties collected once in autumn 2023 at two depths (10 and 30 cm). Measurements include pH, EC, soil texture, organic carbon, nitrogen, water retention parameters, bulk density, microbial activity (β-glucosidase), and above and below-ground biomass. Each record contains site-specific coordinates. Data are provided as Excel files and follow FAIR data principles under CC BY 4.0, ensuring transparency, long-term access, and reuse. This practice follows the FAIR data principles and aligns with the EU Open Data Directive (Directive (EU) 2019/1024), supporting transparency, long-term accessibility and the reuse of publicly funded research outputs. SANCHOSTHIRST (https://projects.au.dk/ejpsoil/soil-research/second-external-call-international-call/sanchosthirst) aims to address soil degradation in semi-arid vineyards and olive groves by assessing how cover crops affect soil health, carbon sequestration and ecosystem services under current and future climate conditions. Through field monitoring, modelling, remote sensing and farmer-focused outreach, the project promotes more sustainable land-management practices in Mediterranean woody crops.