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Introduction to Soil
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Do Now List as many reasons you can think of why soil is important
Write down what you think the difference is between soil and dirt List as many reasons you can think of why soil is important
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Careers in Soil Science
Soil and Plant Scientists from Careers.org
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SOIL Geologic definition: Loose surface of the earth as distinguished from solid bedrock; support of plant life not required.
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SOIL Traditional definition: Material which nourishes and supports growing plants; foundation of every living thing
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Dirt Soil out of place and unable to serve it’s purpose
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Importance of Soil Foundation for roads and structures
Home to plants and animals Grow things in it Contains and filters water Helps dispose of waste Basis for recreation areas
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Soils Perform Several Vital Functions
Sustaining plant and animal life below and above the surface Regulating and partitioning water and solute flow Filtering, buffering, degrading, immobilizing, and detoxifying Storing and cycling nutrients Providing support to structures
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Soil Studies Can Be Incorporated Into Other Studies
Science ecology, biology, chemistry Social Studies world trade, land use Mathematics soil loss over one hectare History settlement of the U.S., dust bowl Art soil crayons, acrylic paints
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SOIL Mixture of mineral matter, organic matter, water, and air.
Properties of soil
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SOIL COMPONENTS Air 25% Mineral Matter 45% Water 25% Organic Matter 5%
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3 Fractions of Mineral Matter
Sand Silt Clay
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Soils Are Alive Organism Types bacteria fungi protozoa nematodes
arthropods earthworms Roles & Benefits decomposition release nutrients create pores stabilize soils
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Scientific Names for Soils Should Be Used
Like plants and animals, soils are classified The system is called Soil Taxonomy The highest level is the soil order (12) The lowest level is the soil series, often a place name
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USDA Textural Triangle
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Soil Color Indicator of different soil types
Indicator of certain physical and chemical characteristics Due to humus content and chemical nature of the iron compounds present in the soil
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Want to learn more about soil?
Visit NRCS’ website at the National Soil Survey Center at We KNOW Soil! Natural Resources Conservation Service Helping People Help the Land Prepared by Earl D. Lockridge National Soil Survey Center Lincoln, NE USDA NRCS ~ An equal opportunity provider and employer
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