September 29, 2019
By: Leigh Fuson, 4-H Agent
Have you ever stopped to think about the importance of soil? Without quality soil, we would have no plants or animals, and thus no food! 4-H members Landon Colwell, Paul Oliver, Mason Taylor learned all about soil types and the lay of the land while preparing for the Central Region Land Judging contest held in Lewisburg. They had great success by earning 2nd place in the junior high division. Individually, Paul was 1st, Landon 4th, and Mason 6th.
The purpose of soil judging is to teach youth the skills necessary for soil science and land use. Competitors jump in the soil “pit” to test texture and determine quality. This offers the students insights into any potential problems or benefits of using a certain piece of land for production agriculture or home site development. Examining the soil also helps with conservation efforts. 4-H members must also learn about slope.
DeKalb County was represented very well in this challenging contest. We also want to thank Melissa Oliver, NRCS Soil Conservationist for coaching the team. For more information about Land Judging or any other 4-H activity, please contact the UT/TSU Extension office at 615-597-4945.
Picture Caption:
DeKalb County 4-H members placed 2nd in the regional Land Judging contest: Mason Taylor, Paul Oliver, and Landon Colwell.