Pedology Contest

Please note that priority will be given to undergraduate students.

The 2025 Pedology Contest will happen on Monday evening. It provides opportunities for students (and others) to apply their knowledge of soils.

The contest will be closed book - no notes, cell phones, calculators, or other resources will be allowed. Soil texture triangles and Munsell color books will be provided for use on appropriate portions.

2025 SSSA Pedology Handbook | Download

The contest will be limited to the first 60 students who sign up.

Contest sign ups are open until October 1, 2025.

The Pedology Contest is an opportunity to study and gain first-hand experience with soil and land uses in an unfamiliar location. This contest prepares participants for careers in soil conservation and management while promoting valuable skills.

Recognition awards will be given to the top three individuals. First place will receive $300, second place $200, and third place $100. Winners will be recognized at the SASES Awards Dinner.

You must sign up on or before October 1 to participate.

The Pedology Contest is open to all undergraduate students and any other participants at CANVAS, but only undergraduate students are eligible for awards.

Contestants will test their knowledge of pedology.

1. The contest will include a practical and written evaluation.
2. Practice materials can be obtained from the 2025 SSSA Pedology Contest Handbook
   • A list of appropriate abbreviations will be given. Contestants must utilize these abbreviations, or answers will be marked incorrect.
3. Scorecard will consist of five parts: Soil Morphology, Soil Profile Characteristics, Site Characteristics, Soil Classification, and Site Interpretations.
4. Contestants should be prepared to estimate soil texture, identify soil structure and other soil features, label horizons and diagnostic horizons, classify and interpret soils, and answer other questions on other relevant topics such as soil formation and pedogenic processes.

Contest Chairs

Chris Baxter | Send Message

Bryant Scharenbroch | Send Message

John Galbraith | Send Message

Kristopher Osterloh | Send Message

ASA, CSSA, and SSSA Contact

Student Programs | Send Message

1st Place: Claire Meara, University of Arkansas-Fayetteville
2nd Place: Elliot Nimmer, University of Wisconsin-Stevens Point
3rd Place: Sam Anderson, Auburn University

1st Place: Ava McCune, University of Minnesota-Twin Cities
2nd Place: Will Hernandez, University of Nebraska-Lincoln
3rd Place: Katie Jansson, University of Arkansas