Pedology Contest
Any in-person meeting attendee can participate in the 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.
2025 Contest Guidelines
Purpose
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.
Awards and Recognition
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.
Eligibility
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.
Evaluation
Contestants will test their knowledge of pedology.
- The contest will include a practical and written evaluation.
- 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.
- Scorecard will consist of five parts: Soil Morphology, Soil Profile Characteristics, Site Characteristics, Soil Classification, and Site Interpretations.
- 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.
Contact
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
Congratulations to the 2024 Winners!
1st Place: Claire Meara, University of Arkansas-Fayetteville
2nd Place: Elliot Nimmer, University of Wisconsin-Stevens Point
3rd Place: Sam Anderson, Auburn University
Congratulations to the 2023 Winners!
1st Place: Ava McCune, University of Minnesota-Twin Cities
2nd Place: Will Hernandez, University of Nebraska-Lincoln
3rd Place: Katie Jansson, University of Arkansas
