Title: Demonstrate procedures for collecting soil samples and conducting soil tests.
Course: Introduction to Natural Resources and Ecology Systems (18504) > Section: Protecting the Environment

Demonstration should include

- ensuring equipment is free from contaminants
- choosing a random pattern of testing area
- sampling soil from root zone
- ensuring the sample is free from organic debris
- mixing the sample well.

Process/Skill Questions:

- Why is it important to conduct a soil test prior to planting?
- How can one change soil pH?
- What effect does pH have on soil nutrients and plants?
- What plant species typically grow in acidic or alkaline conditions?
- Why is it important to use clean equipment?
- At what depth does one take soil samples?
- Why should organic matter be removed from the soil sample?
- How does one determine the sample area?