AGRN 552

Frequently asked questions

When is the Northeast Regional Pedology Field Trip?

In 2015, the Northeast Regional Pedology Field Trip will be from Monday, July 20, through Friday, July 24. We will leave the WVU Evansdale campus in Morgantown on Sunday, July 19. We will return to Morgantown at the end of the trip on Friday, July 24.

What will I learn through participation in the tour?

The objectives of the tour are to (i) examine soil and land-use problems across selected land regions and soil systems of the northeastern United States, (ii) practice completing profile descriptions on soils, and (iii) make land-use interpretations for the major soils and examine significant soil problems in the northeastern United States. Our emphasis is on the development of field skills and field methods of soil evaluation. Participants will become familiar with many aspects of soil description, including soil texture by feel, soil structure, soil color using the Munsell color system, soil consistence, horizon designation, and the application of Soil Taxonomy. We will also introduce certain site description methods (e.g., identification of landform, parent materials, and geomorphic position; slope and aspect measurement). Upon successful completion of this course you will be able to: (i) describe the basic morphological properties of soils in the field, including horizonation, color, texture, structure, and consistence; (ii) recognize the processes that are active in soils and responsible for individual soil characteristics; (iii) understand the interaction of soil forming factors and processes in the formation and evolution of soils; (iv) identify diagnostic horizons and other important pedological features used to classify soils and describe the formation of these horizons and features; (v) interpret soil characterization data for evaluating processes of soil development; and (vi) relate how individual and aggregated soil properties relate to human concerns for the use of soils.

What are the prerequisites for the tour?

It is necessary that participants have at least one prior course in soil science. (AGRN 417: Soil Genesis and Classification is recommended.) Without this background knowledge, a participant would lack the vocabulary and rudimentary skills for interpreting our observations and applying these interpretations toward suitable evaluations of soil use and land management.

Where will we go during the tour?

The tour will take place in West Virginia, where we will observe and discuss soils and landscapes typical of the high-elevation ecosystems of the Central Appalachians. Specific topics that will be the focus of the tour will include podzolization, vernal pools, organic soils, and the interacting effects of topography. climate, and parent materials on soil development.

Where will we stay during the tour?

Tentative plans include lodging on Sunday through Thursday in Canaan Valley, WV. Specific lodging arrangements have not yet been determined.

Who will pay for lodging and meals?

Each participant is responsible for paying for his or her own lodging and meals during the tour. Participants are also responsible for making their own hotel reservations. However, in the past, most participants doubled, tripled, or quadrupled up to reduce the hotel costs. We will stop at fast food restaurants (if convenient) for lunch most days, and we will have dinner at one of the various restaurants near the hotels. You are welcome to bring food and/or snacks, including packing a lunch if it is convenient. Overall, most participants spend approximately $150 to $180 on lodging and meals. (This does not include any extracurricular expenses.)

Who will pay for transportation?

We will travel in a University van. The Division of Plant and Soil Sciences will cover the entire cost of the transportation.

What will I need to bring with me on the tour?

Students should bring the following items:

Field clothes (including a hat)
Boots or work shoes (waterproof is recommended)
Rain coat or poncho
Sunscreen
Insect repellent
Clean clothes for evening activities
Camera (film/media cards, batteries, etc.)
Pencils and/or pens
Clipboard
Money (paper or plastic)

Other items, particularly all necessary field equipment (shovels, augers, color books, etc.) will be provided by the Division of Plant and Soil Sciences.

Can I receive credit for this tour?

Yes. Participants should register for AGRN 552. Information on summer programs in the Davis College.