Description should include
- soil features
- soil profile and horizons (e.g., O, A, E, B, C, R)
- describing the surface thickness
- soil texture
- soil color
- soil structure
- landscape factors
- slope gradient
- landscape analysis
- inferred soil characteristics
- infiltration rate (water entering the soil)
- surface runoff
- permeability (water movement through the soil)
- natural soil drainage classes
- agricultural management
- land capability classes
- soil amendments
- land management systems
- mechanical practices
- soil and land use interpretations
Teacher Resources: Virginia FFA and 4-H Soil Judging Guide, Virginia Cooperative Extension
Process/Skill Questions:
- Why is it important to understand soil features, landscape factors, and soil characteristics when determining agricultural management practices?
- What can the color of a soil tell us about it, and why?
- How does mineral composition, water and organic content influence soil color? Why is this information important when evaluating a soil for nutrient richness and fertility?
- How are infiltration rate and permeability crucial for plant growth and development?
- What are some factors that affect the infiltration rate of water entering the soil?
- How does the infiltration rate affect water availability, nutrient transport, erosion control and groundwater recharge? Why is this important to understand?
- How does the permeability of the soil affect root zone aeration, water movement, nutrient availability, and soil structure? Why is this important to understand?