CRSS 3540; Soil Morphology and Interpretation

Soil Morphology and Interpretation. 1 hour. 2 hour field exercise per week. Field evaluation and description of soil morphological and landscape characteristics. Estimation of soil characteristics and use interpretation from field observable features. Non-traditional format: All instruction will occur in a field setting. Students will have an opportunity to participate in Regional and National Soils Competitions.

Prerequisites: Permission of department

Course objectives:

1. To be able to describe, using proper terminology, the morphological characteristics of soils as they are found in their natural setting.
2. To be able to interpret soil behavior and understand proper soil use and management based on a soils morphology, landscape setting, and classification.

Topical Outline:

1. Soil Morphology
   1. Soil color and redoximorphic features
   2. Soil texture
   3. Soil structure
   4. Other features
2. Horizon nomenclature
3. Site characteristics
4. Soil interpretations

Per University Honor Code and academic Honesty Policy:

All academic work must meet the standards contained in "A culture of Honesty." Each student is responsible to inform themselves about those standards before performing any academic work.

This course syllabus is a general plan for the course; deviations announced to the class by the instructor may be necessary.

Principle assignments:

Weekly field meetings will be held to develop field skills for proper soil description and interpretation. Written description and proper interpretation of soil properties for selected uses will be required for each meeting. Participation in the Southeast Regional Soils Competition during four days in late October or early November is encouraged.

Grading:

Attendance:

Attendance is required unless the student has a valid excuse.

Textbook:

No required text. Supplemental materials will be available as class handouts.

Exams can be made up if the student has a valid excuse for missing the exam.