the year. Articles are written by and for educators in the areas of animal science, ecology, natural resources, agronomy, the environment, entomology, and more. NSE is published by the American Society of Agronomy with a number of cooperating societies including SSSA. Soil Horizons aim is to share the importance of soil science with a larger audience. It features stories celebrating the diversity and critical impact of soil scientists and their work and also includes peer-reviewed papers on global issues and solutions in the study of soils, along with emerging challenges, ideas, unique field experiences, and findings. CSA News is the official magazine for members of the American Society of Agronomy, Crop Science Society of America and Soil Science Society of America. It is a monthly member magazine featuring research highlights; membership, science policy, and meetings news; career and education information; and more. Books—SSSA publishes books for a wide audience—from children to scholars—with an emphasis on the Society's mission of advancing the knowledge of soils and their importance in the environment and society. SSSA publishes textbooks, professional guides, and special topics books. Certifications The SSSA certification programs are voluntary and offer similar benefits to the public as soil science licensing programs. The certification programs set standards for knowledge, skills, and conduct that define the professions of soil science (Certified Professional Soil Scientist - CPSS) and soil classification (Certified Professional Soil Classifier - CPSC). These certifications provide clients, employers, and government agencies with a tool to help them choose professionals with the necessary skills to meet their needs. Policy SSSA completed an assessment of the grand challenges facing the soil science discipline in 2011, identifying the most critical future research needs in soil science: climate change; food and energy security; waste treatment and water quality; and human and ecosystem health. More information on the grand challenges in soil science, including a list of short-, medium-, and long-term research goals, is available online. Climate Change Major Initiatives The UN Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) declared 2015 as the International Year of Soils. In celebration of IYS, SSSA developed 12 monthly themes to help communicate the importance of soil. Each month features activities that help participants learn more about soils, and a monthly thematic video to explain the topic. Discover Soils SSSA's public website has a wealth of information about soils, their preservation and conservation. News topics include: Food & Health, Climate, Environment, Culture