1. Agricultural Careers Soil Scientist By: Dr. Frank Flanders and Ms. Anna Burgess Georgia Agricultural Education Curriculum Office Georgia Department of Education June 2005 START

2. Conduct general and detailed soil surveys Determine the hydric (wetness) characteristics of the soil Recommend soil management programs Monitor the effects of farm, ranch or forest activities on soil productivity Manage soils for landscape design, mine reclamation and site restoration Investigate forest soils, wetlands, environmental endangerment, ecological status, and archeological sites. Conduct studies on soil stability, moisture retention, drainage, sustainability, and environmental impact. Job Duties & Responsibilities

3. Qualities and Skills One interested in pursuing a career in soil science needs to enjoy working outdoors. A desire to make environmental decisions related to soil conservation, land use, water quality or waste management is important. Good observation skills are required to analyze and determine the characteristics of different soil types. An enthusiasm for maps and relationships in nature is also essential.

4. Salary The federal government hires bachelor’s degree holders to work as soil scientists. According to the National Association of Colleges and Employers, starting yearly salaries in 2003 for graduates with a bachelor’s were $29,971.

5. Work Environment Most work will be done outdoors in the field Some office work will be required Work may require walking over rough, uneven land using shovels and spades to gather samples and examine a soil pit exposure

6. Education To be a soil scientist, a college degree is needed in soil science or a related biological, physical, or earth science. People who become soil scientists like working outdoors and studying physics, chemistry, geology, environmental science, and biology. A soil scientist needs a strong background in physical and biological sciences and mathematics. Most soil scientists have earned at least a bachelor degree from a major agricultural university. At many universities, two choices are available for specialized training in soils. The soil science option prepares students to enter the agricultural sector as farm advisors, crop consultants, soil and water conservationists, or as representatives of agricultural companies. The environmental soil science option prepares soil scientists for careers in environmental positions dealing with water quality concerns, remediation of contaminants or for on-site evaluation of soil properties in construction, waste disposal or recreational facilities.

7. Career Resources Soil Science Society of America Internet: http://www.soils.org Soil and Water Conservation Society Internet: http://www.swcs.org/ National Society of Consulting Soil Scientists Internet: http://www.nscss.org United States Consortium of Soil Science Assoc. Internet: http://soilsassociation.org Natural Resources Conservation Service Internet: http://soils.usda.gov/education/facts/careers.html