An ongoing study done by OSU looks at the effect of biochar application on a summerfallow cropping system, common to Washington and Oregon. This region receives low annual rainfall, and farmers see high soil acidification and low soil organic matter. Alternating crops and fallow years is routine, to accumulate soil moisture and keep higher yields without irrigation. This decreases the amount of crop residue going into the soil and along with tillage continue the cycle of low SOC and high acidification. Biochar was applied to these soils to determine if higher carbon levels could improve soil health.

Source: Light, S. (n.d.)