Greenville FFA Participates in State Urban Soil Contests 

The State FFA Soils Contest was held recently at the Delaware Wildlife Area in Delaware  Ohio.  The soil contest consisted of a written test, a Soil Survey test, and four pits to evaluate. The team, consisting of up to four students, grades the soil pit based upon the guidelines provided on the scoring card.  The team is given approximately fifteen minutes at each of the three pits to determine various soil characteristics.  Then based on what characteristics were found, management practice recommendations are made. 

The Urban Soils team looked at slope, landform, flood hazards, soil stability, soil texture of the surface and subsoil, depth to seasonal high water table, and depth to bedrock.  They used these characteristics in determining use limitations for buildings with basement; septic tank absorption fields, driveways and local roads, and lawns, gardens, and landscaping.  Based upon what was found, members then chose some recommended management practices for each of these areas. 

Those who were on the Urban Soils Team were Regan Garber, Sara Cole, Andrew Gulley, and Sarah Spears.  The team placed 44th overall with Andrew Gulley placing as 57th individual in the contest.