C-MIP: an international model inter-comparison simulating organic carbon dynamics in bare fallow soils

C sequestration in agricultural soils contributes to the achievement of the climate objectives (e.g. COP-21’s “4 per 1000” initiative). Reliable methodologies are needed to assess the soil C sequestration potential of agricultural lands in different management, soil and climate conditions. Simulation models extrapolate C dynamics from current knowledge in both time and space. This is difficult when soil is covered by vegetation, for the continuous input of plant residues and root exudates, and the influence of plants on soil water and temperature dynamics. Long-term bare fallow (LTBF) experiments offer ideal conditions to test models simulating soil organic C dynamics.