March 2016 Mountain Profiles The newsletter of the West Virginia Association of Professional Soil Scientists
Message from the President…
Hello everyone! 2015, the International Year of Soils, turned up to be an exciting and productive year for our members and for the West Virginia Association of Professional Soil Scientists! With Adrienne Nottingham, a master student at WVU, winning 3rd place at the 2015 National Soil Judging Contest, securing a place on Team USA for an international soil judging contest that took place along the landscapes and soils of Hungary and the Danube Basin in Sep. 2015. Team USA won first place (!!), with all four Team USA participants placed at the top 10 individual contest (see Adrienne article below). Michael Harman’s relentless effort led to WVAPSS receiving a legislative citation from the West Virginia House of Delegates, recognizing our continued dedication to the state of West Virginia’s natural resources. Special thanks to Michael Harman and his colleagues: Natalie Lounsbury, the Honorable Isaac Sponaugle, and the Honorable Allen Evans, for their hard work spearheading the legislative citation (see full article below). Many thanks also to Dr. Jim Thompson and the WVU Plant and Soil Science Club for their successful campaign to increase awareness of the soil resource across campus and throughout West Virginia during the 2015 International Year of Soils! (see full article below). We have two positions to elect this year – a Vice President, and Executive Council position (Ethics and Registration Committee). Please send your nominations by mid‐April. Many thanks also to Katy Yoast, our past president for her active role and continued effort, to all contributing members to the newsletter, and to all of you for promoting and practicing sound use of soil and natural resources. Please stay tune for updates on our annual meeting and tour, currently being developed by Tom D’Avello.
All the best!
Amir Hass WVAPSS President
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Table of Contents
Update from Our State Soil Scientist ...... 3 Jeff Skousen Wins the 2016 Golden Auger Award ...... 4 WVAPSS Acknowledged by the WV House of Delegates ...... 5 WVAPSS 2015 Tour of Stonewall Gathering System Pipeline ...... 6 WVU Soils Team: Describing—And Expanding—Horizons ...... 7 Soil Judging in Hungary ...... 9 Reforestation of a Mine Site Near Marmet, WV ...... 12 Celebrating the International Year of Soils at West Virginia University…and Beyond ...... 14 Update on the Soil Survey of Barnegat Bay, New Jersey ...... 18 Moorefield Blue Brings Home the Gold at Envirothon...... 21 Soil Treasure Unearthed ...... 23 Soil Erosion Service Project 13, Roane County West Virginia ...... 26 Featured Links to Soil Resources ...... 30 WVAPSS Merchandise Available ...... 30 Upcoming Events ...... 31
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Update from Our State Soil Scientist By Jared Beard (WV NRCS State Soil Scientist)
The State Soil Scientist position in West Virginia has been in transition the last few years which has resulted in the need for consistent and permanent attention to the delivery of technical soil services. Since April of last year I have worked to bring lingering items to completion, establish primary workload functions, assist leadership with adoption of the Focused Conservation Approach, and become familiar with the soils partnership activities. Much of this work parallels that of the resource soil scientist duties, however, from what I’ve experienced, the approach to it is new and challenging and a welcome change as it brings different perspectives of the agency and staff. The needs of the state reach beyond the maintenance of soil data and teaching the use of tools like web soil survey and soil data viewer, especially as the agency is experiencing changes in staff and programs. Nonetheless, the ultimate goal of getting conservation on the ground is dependent on these soils activities. As the second half of this fiscal year approaches I see technical soil services assisting further the activities of program delivery and conservation planning through soil health training, outreach, and workshops and assistance in project development for the Focused Conservation Approach.h Soil healt activities will be achieved initially through assistance from the National Soil Survey Center as a train the trainer session is followed by hands on training of the agency’s field staff. The Focused Conservation Approach is challenging the local work groups to consider the soils on a larger scale when addressing conservation issues. Additionally, I plan to work with partner agencies to develop reference wetland sites and evaluation of the map unit component vegetation data for hydric soil components. Finally, efforts to incorporate soils into the annual training schedule is timely with the focus on updating multidisciplinary training agendas which include engineering, planning, and basic soils for new hires. Some projects and events that are underway include the determination of red parent material geologies and soils for the entire state with sample analysis being done at the University of Maryland. A second round of assisting EPA with sampling of wetlands for the National Wetland Conditioning Assessment will take place this summer. The first occurred in 2011 and will occur on a 5 year interval. West Virginia will host the summer meeting of the Mid‐Atlantic Hydric Soil Committee in the Eastern Panhandle. I look forward to a more focused intent to the workload and less reacting as I learn more about this position. I feel fortunate to have availability to the resource soil scientists who make the direct connection to the field delivering technical soil services, as well as cooperation in the soil partnership with Soil Survey Region 6, Forest Service, and WVU.
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Jeff Skousen Wins the 2016 Golden Auger Award By Rob Pate (Resource Soil Scientist – WV NRCS)
Started in 1999, the Golden Auger Award is given each year to someone who has made outstanding contributions to the field of soil science in West Virginia. This year, the Golden Auger Award goes to Dr. Jeff G. Skousen. Dr. Jeff Skousen grew up on a 300‐ac farm in eastern Oregon where irrigation was used to produce alfalfa and potato crops. He grew up with a shovel in his hand and learned to dig fast in the sandy soils of the area because the ditches washed out and continually needed repairing. During undergraduate and graduate work in Utah, Jeff dug hundreds of pits and classified the soils for a 3‐year research project on big game habitat restoration. Since joining WVU in 1985, Jeff has been an advocate for responsible reclamation and the wise use of mined and disturbed lands. He is one of the nation’s top experts on land reclamation. His research has educated the mining industry and the public on methods to achieve reforestation; technologies for predicting, controlling, and treating acid mine drainage, and the application of soil science and ecological principles in reclamation. All geared towards the future potential uses for mined lands. As educator at WVU, Jeff teaches classroom courses in soil science, reclamation, environmental protection, and watershed management. As a representative of the WVU Extension Service, Jeff delivers a state‐wide educational program on reclamation through consultations, seminars, and workshops; and presents to research faculty, state agencies, L to R: Rob Pate, Jeff Skousen, Katey Yoast WVU Cooperative Extension Service staff, and the mining industry. Jeff is also active in the education of West Virginia’s youth. For many years, Jeff has promoted and coordinated the FFA and 4‐H land judging programs in West Virginia. These are the programs that steer young people to careers in soil science, conservation, and agriculture. Land judging is often a young person’s first introduction to the scientific principles which are the foundation of conservation, soil survey, and land use planning. Jeff has also been a friend of collegiate soil judging, allowing his farm to be used as a practice site for the Southeast Regional Soil Judging contest which was hosted by WVU in 2012. Jeff has a Bachelor’s and Master’s Degree from Brigham Young University, and his PhD from Texas A&M University. In addition to being a long‐time member of the West Virginia Association of Professional Soil Scientists, Jeff is a member of the American Society of Agronomy, American Society for Mining and Reclamation, Mine Drainage Task Force, Soil Science Society of America, and Soil and Water Conservation Society; and a recipient of numerous awards. 4 | Page W V A P S S M A R C H 2 0 1 6 N E W S L E T T E R
WVAPSS Acknowledged by the WV House of Delegates By Katey Yoast (Soil Scientist – WV NRCS) and Mike Harman (Extension Agent – Jefferson County, WV)
Soil provides habitat and acts as a natural filter, growth medium, structural foundation, and storage facility for people to produce medicine, feed, food, fiber, and fuel. Although soil is used daily by people, its utility, physical properties, and chemical properties often go unnoticed. During this time of changing climate, urbanization, and growing demand for soil productivity, it is crucial that we make the public aware of the value of soil. This year (2015), declared the International Year of Soils (IYS) by the United Nations, is a once in a lifetime opportunity to raise awareness and educate people of the importance of soil. It was said by the Senegalese Forestry Engineer Mr. Baba Dioum in 1968 that “in the end we will conserve only what we love; we will love only what we understand; and we will understand only what we are taught.” In West Virginia, the West Virginia Association of Professional Soil Scientists (WVAPSS) took Mr. Dioum’s words and put them into action by becoming the third state in the U.S. to receive legislative recognition for their work during the IYS. Michael Harman, West Virginia University Jefferson County Extension Agent and Past President of WVAPSS, spearheaded this effort that resulted in a Legislative Citation from the West Virginia House of Delegates for “continued dedication to the State of West Virginia’s natural Figure 1. Legislative Citation from the West Virginia House of resources (Fig. 1).” The following soil scientists are Delegates recognizing the importance of soil to West recognized as contributors to this effort: Dr. Mary Virginia’s future prosperity. Beth Adams, Jared Beard, Nick Beaver, Skip Bell, Stephanie Connolly, Susan Demas, Tim Dilliplane, Dr. Amir Hass, Michael Harman, Natalie Lounsbury, Rob Pate, Dr. John Sencindiver, Dr. Jeff Skousen, Dr. James Thompson, and Katey Yoast. Additionally it is important to recognize the Honorable Isaac Sponaugle and the Honorable Allen Evans in the West Virginia House of Delegates for their effort securing the legislative citation.
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WVAPSS 2015 Tour of Stonewall Gathering System Pipeline By Amir Hass, WVSU
Implementation of new drilling technologies enables extraction of oil and gas from the Marcellus and Utica shales in Northeastern US. Regardless of current slowdown in exploration and construction of new drill‐sites due to low global oil prices, installation of gathering and transmission pipeline infrastructure is ongoing. US Energy Information Administration points to some 42,000 miles of pipeline projects throughout the US since 2011. With more than 7,000 miles of pipeline in construction phase in the Northeast, 3,300 of which crosses or passing through West Virginia. These numbers include both gathering lines from production wells as well as inter and intra state transmission lines. On July 24th 2015 WVAPSS annual meeting included a tour along the right‐of‐way of the Stonewall Gathering System (SGS) pipeline during its construction operations. Upon completion, SGS Pipeline, a $450 million project with transmission capacity of approximately 1.4 billion cubic feet per day, will transmit gas from production wells in northern WV and PA and OH tri‐state area to an interstate transmission line in Braxton County. Precision Pipeline LLC is constructing the 55‐mile pipeline, and Mark Wright, the project superintendent host and guide the tour. The tour included a visit to the pipeline right‐of‐way and to a horizontal directional drilling site where Southeast Directional Drilling conducted a 3,100‐feet long drilling of 48” diameter hole some 300 feet underneath I‐79 near mile mark 90. The 36” SGS pipeline will later be pull back into place and welded to the pipeline at an open‐cut tranche, connecting the northern and southern parts of the pipeline. Mark and his team discussed the pipeline construction phase and considerations. Of course, much of the group’s interest focused around the landscape disturbance, soil erosion, reclamation and remediation practices and activities. Pictures: Left – WVAPSS members up close at SGS I‐79 crossing site; above – aerial photo of a section of SGS pipeline during construction along typical terrain of WV landscape.
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WVU Soils Team: Describing—And Expanding—Horizons Jim Thompson, WVU By all accounts, 2015 was an excellent year for soil judging at West Virginia University. The year began with the WVU Soils Team preparing for a trip to southeastern Arkansas for the 2015 National Collegiate Soils Contest, hosted by the University of Arkansas at Monticello. The flood plains and terraces of the Mississippi Delta region are flat—especially compared to landscapes in West Virginia—and the soils are naturally wet because of the low relief. With rainfall on already wet soils, the team spent some time each day pumping and bailing water from the practice pits. But with daily high temperatures in the 80’s, everyone tended to dry out quickly (and get a little sunburn too). Despite the mud, the team had an excellent week and performed well in the contest. Adrienne Nottingham was the top individual finisher from WVU, placing third in the field of 86 competitors. Also competing in the individual competition were Ellie Bell and Becca Swope (who tied for 17th place) and Emily Wells. Combining the results from the individual and group judging (in which WVU finished 8th), WVU placed second among the 22 different schools from across the country that gathered for the 55th annual soil judging championship. Other students that traveled with the WVU Soils Team were David Ackley, Riley Biddle, Ashley Johnson, Jimmy Leonard, and Emily Lessman. Heather Watson, a Ph.D. student in Plant and Soil Science served as the assistant coach. This marked the seventh top‐ten finish for WVU in the past ten years and WVU's best finish since winning the national championship in 2006. The contest was won by the Auburn University, and Purdue University was third. The other schools who finished in the top ten were Oklahoma State University (fourth), the University of Wisconsin—Platteville (fifth), Virginia Tech (sixth), North Carolina State (seventh), Kansas State University (eighth), Delaware Valley University (ninth), and the University of Nebraska (tenth). By placing in the top four individually, Adrienne Nottingham earned the opportunity to represent the United States at the International Field Course and Soil Judging Contest in September 2015. Adrienne subsequently traveled to Hungary as a member of the United States soil judging team, where Team USA placed 1st overall and Adrienne Nottingham placed 7th (see related story on page 9). In October 2015 the WVU Soils Team was back in action in Murray, KY, where they competed in the 2015 Southeast Regional Collegiate Soils Contest. The contest was hosted by Murray State University and included 67 students representing 10 schools. The team from WVU that competed in Arkansas in the spring included six seniors. Consequently, the eight students from the Davis College of Agriculture, Natural Resources, and Design on the team included six who had yet to compete in a regional contest. However, three days of practice prepared the team for the unfamiliar soils and helped them calibrate their soil judging skills to the local conditions. This was evidenced by the fact that, once again, the team performed well. When the results were announced, four WVU students placed in the top 25, with Riley Biddle finishing ninth, Emily Lessman 11th, Katie Stutler 14th, and David Ackley 22nd. Based on these individual scores WVU earned a fifth place finish in the team competition. Other students that traveled with the team were Cheyanne Conrath, Jimmy Leonard, Brianna Pastor, and Erika Ridgway. The other schools who finished in the top five and will represent the Southeast Region in the national contest are Virginia Tech (first), Tennessee—Knoxville (second), Tennessee Tech (third), and Georgia (fourth). The Team is now preparing for the 2016 National Collegiate Soils Contest, which will be held in April and will be hosted by Kansas State University. This will be the Team’s tenth appearance at the National Contest in the past eleven years. If you would like to learn more about the WVU Soils Team, including how 7 | Page W V A P S S M A R C H 2 0 1 6 N E W S L E T T E R
you can support their efforts, visit soiljudging.wvu.edu or contact Jim Thompson (304‐293‐2921, [email protected]).
L to R: Becca Swope, Emily Wells, Ellie Bell, and Adrienne Nottingham represented the WVU Soils Team that took second place at the 2015 National Collegiate Soils Contest in Monticello, Arkansas. Photo by Jim Thompson.
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Soil Judging in Hungary By Adrienne Nottingham (Master Student at WVU, and PATHWAYS on the MNF)
In September 2015, I had the experience of a lifetime. All of the time I spent soil judging for the past four years came to a climax when I qualified to compete in an International Soil Judging competition. I could not have achieved this without all of the mentors and professional soil scientists who have helped me along the way. This learning experience was a result of a strong partnership between WVU, NRCS and the USFS Monongahela National Forest (MNF). This background afforded me the opportunity to participate in the highlight of my undergraduate career at WVU: the International Year of Soil, International Soil Judging Competition in Godollo, Hungary. Starting in 2010, I became involved in the West Virginia University Soil Judging Team, coached by Dr. James Thompson. I participated in three Regional and three National Competitions. I cannot begin to quantify the knowledge I gained during these competitions. I consider it one of the best learning experiences I had as an undergraduate. I believe that the exposure I gained to soil from different regions has and continues to help me be an excellent soil scientist. At contests, the WVU Soils Team always performed well and it was always my goal to place in the top 10 individually at a National Contest. I finally achieved this goal at the National Contest in Monticello, Arkansas in 2015 where I placed 3rd individually. As a result, I qualified to participate in the 2015 IYS International Soil Judging Competition in Hungary. The competition in Hungary took L to R: Myself, Erin Bush, Kristen Pegues, Stephen Geib place September 1‐6th. I met my teammates (Kristin Pegues: Auburn University, Erin Bush: Kansas State University and Stephen Geib: Delaware Valley University) as well as my coach (Joey Shaw, Auburn University) and Assistant Coach (Stephanie Connolly, USFS) on August 31st. As previous competitors, I expected some residual aggression between us. However, I could not have been more wrong. The strong friendships I formed with these exceptional folks happened almost instantaneously and I am sure it will continue into the future. Unlike Regional and National competitions that Team USA was accustomed to, the competition in Hungary had both a classroom and field component. The extended amount of classroom education was due to the fact that many participants had never partaken in a soil judging competition before. Although most of our competition was much older than us (many were graduate and PhD students‐ some even teachers and professionals), Team USA had by far the most field experience. Even with our field experience, the soils in Hungary were very difficult to describe. Given our
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morning classroom sessions, field time was limited and teams only had about 45 minutes total at each practice pit. All of our practice pits were located in the Carpathian Basin, which is flat and low in elevation (8 m). Although I cannot speak for the rest of Team USA, I feltd I ha some very steep learning curves. I had no experience recognizing or describing carbonates, which affect almost all soils in the Carpathian Basin. Additionally, many of the pits we described were sodium affected‐ something that I had not seen before. For me, the highlight of our practice pits was a soil pit protected by the international community (see photo below). The soil forming processes that developed this profile are too complex to explain in this article, but an article by Horvath explains these processes in detail1. As mentioned above, participants had limited Atkar Soil Profile social time. Although I rarely find myself up past 9 pm, during the contest I frequently found myself turning in late. Time passed quickly as I spent my evenings with soil judgers from around the globe. I loved listening to the Croatian team talk about vineyards on cobble deposits. I spent hours talking to the German team about their Spodosols. Where else but at an International Soil Judging Contest can you ‘nerd out’ about chimney and bowl topography of Vertisols? On contest day, it poured rain. The drive to the contest site was almost four hours long. However, when we arrived, everyone donned whatever rain gear they had and reported to the contest pits. Unlike contests in the US, the International Competition was much more relaxed, which I found to be a pleasant change. In the end, Team USA did exceptionally well: we scored 2nd place in the group judging competition and 1st place overall. All of Team USA placed Team USA after the Contest in the top ten individually. However, I feel that what I learned during the contests, and the relationships I made were the greatest victory. On the 4‐ hour ride back to our hotel, I could not help but think about all of the people who helped me achieve this experience. My success can all be linked back to a partnership between WVU, NRCS and the MNF. Dr. Skousen at WVU was one of my first mentors and fostered my love of applied soil science. The enormous amount of
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time and effort that Dr. Thompson put into the WVU Soil Judging team helped to instill my love for soil judging. I have learned so much from local NRCS employees including (but not limited to) Skip Bell, Tim Dilliplane, Rob Pate, and Katey Yoast. None of the competitions I participated ind woul have been possible without the support of local NRCS employees. Field experience I gained working with Stephanie Connolly on the MNF further helped me understand the soil resource. In conclusion, the soils community in West Virginia helped me achieve this goal, and I am forever appreciative.
1Horváth, Z., E. Michéli, A. Mindszenty, and J. Berényi‐Üveges. 2005. "Soft‐sediment deformation structures in Late Miocene– Pleistocene sediments on the pediment of the Mátra Hills (Visonta, Atkár, Verseg): Cryoturbation, load structures or seismites?." Tectonophysics 410 (1‐5): 81‐95
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Reforestation of a Mine Site Near Marmet, WV By Rob Pate (Resource Soil Scientist – WV NRCS)
On Saturday April 25th, 2015, West Virginia State University (WVSU), an 1890’s Land Grant College, sponsored a Care Day activity to coincide with Earth Day (Figure 1). Volunteers participated in restoration and reforestation of a reclaimed mine site ecosystem near Marmet, WV (Figure 2). The activity was coordinated by Dr. Amir Hass from WVSU and included more than 40 WVSU students, staff, faculty, and members of the surrounding community. Alan Moore, a soil scientist from USDA’s Natural Resources Conservation Service, stationed in Huntington, WV, gave a presentation on soils, and Randall Lester from the USDA Appalachian Plant Materials Center in Alderson, WV provided professional Figure 1. Group photo of volunteers at WVSU Care Day mine site knowledge on tree planting guidelines and pollinator establishment. Two soil pits were excavated in advance to represent a nearby native residual soil, Berks – (Loamy‐ skeletal, mixed, active, mesic Typic Dystrudepts), and the reclaimed mine soil, Fiveblock – (Loamy‐skeletal, mixed, semiactive, nonacid, mesic Typic Udorthents ). Alan Moore described pedogenesis to the participants, pointing out distinct soil properties that were impacted by mining. He also explained how high bulk density and low available water capacity at the reclaimed mine site could limit the reforestation process (Figure 3). The designated planting site was reclaimed in early 2014 and was deep‐ripped prior to the event to lower the bulk density of the compacted mine soil to enable the tree seedlings to better establish and survive. Overall, 600 Figure 2. Planting area (reclaimed mine soil) after being deep‐ripped. 12 | Page W V A P S S M A R C H 2 0 1 6 N E W S L E T T E R
Osage Orange (Maclura pomifera) trees were planted as part of WVSU mine reforestation project. The volunteers also planted 180 perennial flowering plants to establish a pollinator garden on the site (Figure 4). Alan Moore and Randall Lester discussed the revegetative and reclamation process, highlighting the importance of restoring natural habitats and ecosystems on mined lands. Participants left the WVSU Care Day with a better understanding of pedogenesis, Figure 3. Alan Moore explaining the pedogenesis of residual soil and the below and above ground impacts importance of restoring natural ecosystems to WVSU Care Day volunteers. of mining, reclamation and revegetative processes, and a new appreciation for land management and restoration.
Figure 4. Volunteers planting trees, on a deep‐ripped reclaimed mine site, during WVSU Care Day at a mine site near Marmet WV.
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Celebrating the International Year of Soils at West Virginia University…and Beyond By Adrienne Nottingham, Emily Wells, and Jim Thompson
The 68th United Nations General Assembly declared 2015 the International Year of Soils (IYS). Through a partnership between the USDA Forest Service Civil Rights Program, the Monongahela National Forest, and the WVU Plant and Soil Science Club (WVU PSSC), a campaign was planned and executed to increase awareness of the soil resource across campus and throughout West Virginia during 2015. These partners hoped to connect people to the soil resource using various educational and outreach efforts to communicate to a diverse group of students and members of the local community. The International Year of Soils has now concluded and it has been a full year since the implementation of this campaign at WVU. Here we describe this successful efforts made during IYS 2015. Traveling Soils Kiosk Funding made available by the FS Civil Rights Program enabled the WVU PSSC to purchase a custom‐built traveling soil kiosk to be used during the outreach effort. Three sides of the case displayed written information. The information on these panels changed monthly with the IYS monthly theme. One side of the case was used to display two soil monoliths. When possible, IYS monthly themes were connected to management restrictions or unique characteristics of the soil monoliths displayed. The intent is for the kiosk was to: (i) emphasize the importance of soils to our everyday life, (ii) indicate how individuals could get involved in activities or efforts on/around campus, and (iii) highlight some of the linkages across departments and colleges at WVU. Each month, the traveling soils kiosk was moved to a different part of campus. When possible, the location was determined by the monthly theme. For example, for the Soil Support Infrastructure theme (May), the kiosk was stationed in the Engineering Sciences Building on campus. Throughout the year, the travelling soils kiosk was located at eight locations, with three locations hosting the kiosk twice. While it is difficult to accurately estimate the number of individuals that viewed the kiosk, having the case located in high traffic areas on campus—including the lobby of Agricultural Sciences Building (January, December), Brooks Hall (February, November), the lobby of the Evansdale Library (March), the lobby of Percival Hall (April, September), the common area in Engineering Science Building (May), the lobby of the Mountainlair Student Union (July), the Health & Education Building (August), and the lobby of Business & Economics Building (October)—ensured that hundreds, if not thousands, of people encountered the kiosk each day. The following are just a few example panels from the IYS traveling soils kiosk.
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Facebook Another part of this planned outreach program was to use Facebook and social media as a platform for promoting awareness of the soil resource and connecting a diverse group of individuals to the soil resource. Our Facebook page was created in December 2014. Daily posts were uploaded starting on December 31, 2014. The WVU PSSC IYS Facebook page can be accessed at the following link: https://www.facebook.com/wvu.pssc. If you on Facebook, please visit the page as it will remain active. At the end of 2015, the WVU PSSC IYS Facebook page had 197 followers from 33 countries. The majority of these followers were from the United States, with 11 states were represented. However, the Facebook page had followers from 22 other countries including India, Egypt, Pakistan, Ecuador, the United Kingdom, Brazil, Algeria, Iraq, Italy, Nepal, Nigeria, Sri Lanka, Afghanistan, Austria, Bangladesh, Cambodia, Canada, Colombia, Czech Republic, Germany, Greece, Hong Kong, Hungary, Japan, Kenya, Mexico, Mongolia, Peru, Philippines, Singapore, Tunisia, and Vanuatu. Posts (most in relation to the SSSA monthly theme or events) were uploaded on the Facebook page daily. Typical posts consisted of factoids, birthdays, anniversaries, videos, events, quotes and vocabulary words. On average, posts reached 132 people. The most popular post reached 2,363 people. During 2015, posts on the WVU PSSC IYS Facebook page generated 48,000 views. Examples of posts uploaded throughout the year can be seen below.
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Other Activities To further celebrate the IYS, the WVU PSSC hosted a screening of the movie Symphony of the Soil. A panel discussion was held after the screening. Participants in the panel discussion included WVAPSS members Mary Beth Adams (USDA Forest Service), Jeff Skousen (WVU Plant & Soil Sciences), and Katey Yoast (USDA NRCS) as well as Jim Kotcon (WVU Plant & Soil Sciences) and Jim Rye (WVU Curriculum & Instruction/Literacy Studies).
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Update on the Soil Survey of Barnegat Bay, New Jersey By Susan Demas (Soil Scientist ‐ USDA NRCS Hammonton, NJ)
Since 2012, USDA NRCS Soil Survey staff Hammonton, NJ along with countless volunteers and partners have been undertaking a subaqueous soil inventory of the largest estuary in the State, Barnegat Bay (Figure 1.). Barnegat Bay comprises nearly 600 square miles and is entirely within Ocean County, NJ. Barnegat Bay is known to be a shallow, poorly flushed, and nutrient impaired estuary and is home to nearly 600,000 people. During summer months, in the height of the tourist season, numbers of persons can swell to 1.5 million. The utility of a subaqueous soil survey is many fold and information gained may assist with the following: the identification and protection of existing and potential submerged aquatic vegetation (SAV) habitats; the identification of possible restocking sites for shellfish .i.e. clams and oyster and finfish; the development of a soil data baseline of chemical and physical properties which could assist in identifying sources of Bay eutrophication. For example it is known that certain SAV species such as eel grass (Zostera marina) prefer sandier sediment types low in sulfides while certain aquatic organisms such as Pfiesteria, which have been thought to be toxic in certain phases to fish, are believed to have a preference for siltier bottoms. A pedological approach to mapping subaqueous soils can potentially Figure 1. Map showing location of Ocean and Monmouth Counties, NJ lead to better allocation of resources and (color shaded area) and Barnegat Bay New Jersey, just east of the result in more science‐based decisions for mainland. the management of shallow water habitats. Initial soil survey activities commenced in 2012 and involved the use of 1934‐1936 National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) soundings for development of a contour map of the Bay. This allowed us to identify permanently submerged landforms as one would do in a conventional terrestrial /subaerial upland soil survey. NRCS has recognized 15 landforms including the following; estuarine tidal creek, lagoon bottom, lagoon barrier bottom, storm‐surge washover fan flats, flood tidal delta, submerged wave cut platform, mainland cove, shoal, dredge channel, and dredge‐deposit shoal. In association with these landforms, and with previous work conducted by researchers and NRCS in coastal estuaries in Maryland, Delaware and Rhode Island, a preliminary soil legend was developed.
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To date, NRCS has collected 182 field notes and 81 vibracores have been extruded and described and classified to the series level. In addition, samples were collected from horizons for X‐ray fluorescence measurements for 18 different metals. To date, a total of 26 different mapping units have been identified with 13 distinct soil series (Figures 3 and 4). Typical soil orders encountered include Entisols and Histosols. Key findings include the discovery of approximately eight former inlets also called relict inlets, and the identification of former Atlantic White Cedar Swamps that now are submerged since glacier retreat. Other important Figure 2. NOAA 1934‐36 Bathymetry indicating various water findings are that significant carbon stocks (blue depths in Barnegat Bay. Blue hues indicate deeper areas while carbon sequestration) are held in organic shallow areas are shown in red. horizons found in cores collected from the head waters of estuarine tidal creeks and former tidal marsh surfaces. Figure 5 shows the tentative soil legend for Barnegat Bay.
Figure 3. Photo of core, Cottman Series (co‐lo, mixed, Figure 4. Photo of core, Trappe Series (siliceous, subactive, mesic Haplic Sulfiwassents). mesic, Sulfic Psammowassents).
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Figure 5. Tentative soil Legend for Barnegat Bay.
In addition to data collected, subaqueous graduate research conducted by the late George P. Demas and Danielle Balduff, USDA NRCS has been entered in NASIS and will also be used as supporting documentation in the development of Data Mapunits. Following final correlation, the goal is to have the soils information available in Web Soil Survey before the end of 2016.
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Moorefield Blue Brings Home the Gold at Envirothon By Katey Yoast (Soil Scientist – WV NRCS)
The West Virginia (WV) Envirothon is a conservation education program and competition for students in grades 9 through 12 that encompasses five subject areas: aquatics, forestry, soils, wildlife, and a current environmental topic. The Envirothon program allows students to learn WV ecology outside the classroom and in collaboration with local environmental professionals. This opportunity helps the students understand the importance of West Virginia’s natural resources and encourages conservation for future generations. As an added bonus, students are able to compete against other schools around the state for a chance to compete at the National Figure 1. West Virginia high school students competing in the 2015 Envirothon competition and scholarship (Photo credit: The West Virginia Conservation Agency). opportunities. High school students from around the state gathered at Camp Caesar near Cowen, WV to compete in the 2015 WV Envirothon on April 17th and 18th. Several members of WVAPSS were there to help facilitate the contest, including Skip Bell, Katey Yoast, Tim Dilliplane, Debby Cunningham, Alan Moore, Dr. John Sencindiver, Jared Beard, Katy McBride, Carlos Cole, and others. After two days of intense competition and a little bit of play, the winners were announced. The Moorefield High School Blue Team took first place, followed by Ravenswood Future Farmers of America (FFA), Mineral County FFA, the Good Natureds, and Putnam County 4‐H. The first place team competed with other top high school teams from around the country at Missouri State University on July 27th thru August 2nd in the National Envirothon Contest. The Moorefield High Blue Team placed 23rd out of 52 teams. Congratulations Moorefield High!
Figure 2. The Moorefield High School Blue team holding their first place prize: a 5,000 scholarship. (Photo credit: The West Virginia Conservation Agency). 21 | Page W V A P S S M A R C H 2 0 1 6 N E W S L E T T E R
Healthy Soils for a Healthy Life – Reflections on the International Year of Soils, 2015 By Mary Beth Adams, Ph.D. (Research Soil Scientist, US Forest Service)
We have just finished celebrating the United Nations International Year of Soils 2015 And while the International Year of Soils may be over, the importance of soils to the lives of everyone on the Earth continues. By 2050, the global population is projected to exceed 9 billion people. As the population rapidly increases, the available surface area of soil in which our food and fiber is grown diminishes at a rate of 115 square miles each day. Soil degradation constitutes one of the most important challenges of the 21st century, a challenge that is essential we meet and conquer. Soils are amazing! Soils sustain life! Soils are self‐regulating biological factories. They contain minerals, organic matter, and living organisms in great number and diversity. Our soils must be used carefully in order to ensure the long‐term maintenance of their key benefits to meet the demands of a growing world population. The soils of West Virginia are highly diverse and 7 of the 12 soil orders (broad categories of similar soils) known in the United States are found in WV. The State soil is the Monongahela silt loam. It is widespread through the state, occurring on more than 100,000 acres in 45 counties. Described by the NRCS as a very deep, moderately well‐drained soil, Monongahela silt loam is a prime agricultural soil and is well suited to the Soil profile of the West Virginia State Soil— Monongahela Silt Loam. Source: Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History production of cultivated crops as well as hay, pasture, http://forces.si.edu/soils/ and timber. Many forest management best practices are intended to protect the soil, so nsoil ca sustain the forest. For example, use of Best Management Practicies (BMPs), as specified in the WV Logging Sediment Control Act, protects soils from erosion and compaction, and minimizes movement of soil into waterways. This ensures that forests, streams, and lakes are healthy. The Conservation Reserve Program of the USDA also helps protect soils and waterways through designation of riparian buffers and conservation plantings. In the spirit of the UN International Year of Soils, the Soil Science Society of America identified 12 themes, with material to help people understand and appreciate the importance of soils to their lives. A brief video describing each theme, and supporting materials for all ages can be found at: www.soils.org/iys. Revised from: West Virginia Forest Stewardship Newsletter. February, 2016, Volume 10, Issue 1. WVU Extension Service, WVU School of Natural Resources, and WV Division of Forestry
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Soil Treasure Unearthed By Susan Demas (Soil Scientist – NJ NRCS) and Eileen Miller (Resource Conservationist – NJ NRCS)
Recently, Eileen Miller a colleague of mine with New Jersey (NJ) Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) sent me an email concerning an unusual collection which had been given to her by a local science teacher. Eileen is a Resource Conservationist with NJ NRCS specializing in soil health. Eileen’s name had been given to the local science teacher by Angela Andreoli, Cumberland County NJ Farm Service Agency as a possible contact for finding a permanent and suitable resting place for an unusual collection. Along with Eileen’s email came pictures taken by her of this unique and very special collection which just so happens to be soil. The 1916 soil collection has had an interesting history.
Figure 1. Photograph of the 1916 U.S. soil collection and publication, “Important Soils of the United States”, United States Department of Agriculture, Bureau of Soils, December 1, 1916. Soils of each Region of the U.S. are represented. The teacher responsible for conveying this treasure to Eileen is Jill Guenther, a science teacher with the Cumberland County School District. Jill, a teacher for the past 28 years, was given the collection by another teacher who came across it in one of her classroom cabinets. According to Ms. Guenther n“I’ve bee teaching Earth and Space Science for the past 28 years at Vineland High School. I’ve had a love of the Earth’s features and soils for as long as I can remember…probably starting with my mother’s family, who originally Vineland, NJ farmers, emigrated from Italy. About 10 years ago, ae colleagu noted my fascination, and remembered finding a soils collection in a classroom cabinet.” Ms. Guenther has been using the collection ever since to teach students about weathering and erosion. Ms. Guenther also noted that the bulletin accompanying the collection made mention that the kits were made for schools. Worried that the soil samples could be lost or broken, she decided that the collection should have a suitable home and reached out to Eileen, who later would find out also shares her love of soils. Immediately upon receiving Eileen’s email about the collection, I contacted Dr. Del Fanning as if anyone one knew of the collection it had to be Del, and for assistance in trying to find a permanent home for the collection. Del had numerous ideas such as possibly housing the collection at the World Soil Museum in the Netherlands, the Smithsonian Institution, the National Agriculture Library (NAL), the
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University of Maryland Archives, or even possibly the “Dig It” Exhibit, all of which were given as suggestions to Eileen. Del contacted many others including Dr. Edward Landa, Adjunct Professor, Environmental Science and Technology Department, University of Maryland and Dr. Dennis Merkel, Professor in the School of Biological Sciences at Lake Superior State University concerning the U.S. Bureau of Soils’ collection to find out whatever he could. Dr. Merkel happened to have a copy of the bulletin. Although he remarked that there were no authors listed, it was his opinion that the publication no doubt was abstracted from Soils of the United States”. (Edition, 1913.), United States Department of Agriculture, U.S. Bureau of Soils, Bulletin 96, 1913 by Curtis F. Marbut, Hugh H. Bennett, Jessie Erwin (J.E.) Lapham, and M. H. Lapham.
Figure 2. Close up of the collection by U.S. Regions. Each soil series present in the collection consists of a glass vial sample of top soil and a vial of subsoil. According to Dr. Landa “I think the term "physical geography" in the subtitle of the bulletin is reflective of Curtis Marbut's influence. He had long standing, strong ties to the physical geography community from his days at University of Missouri and extending to his career at the Bureau of Soils.” Macy Lapham having come from Michigan State University, was th born in Okemus, Ingham County, Michigan on April, 10 , 1874. He began his career with the U.S. Bureau of soils in 1899 as a soil mapper in the Western U.S. in California and Arizona. His earliest mapping involved the use of a horse and buggy. To think that I used to complain about the government giving employees vehicles without radios! He eventually rose in the ranks to become Inspector of the Western Division, Bureau of Soils. As inspector, he spent time traveling around the country with the then, party leaders, correlating soils. His brother J.E. spent a good part of his career conducting soil surveys in the Mid‐West in places like Texas, Kansas, Arkansas, Indiana and even North Carolina. In the meantime, I was able to contact Dr. Douglas Figure 3. Photograph of the bulletin “Important Soils of the United States, U.S. Bureau of Soils, Helms, retired historian, USDA NRCS. Although Dr. Helms at 1916” was issued to accompany a collection of the time was unfamiliar with the collection, he noted that the soils and subsoils (in 13 boxes) for use of U.S. Bureau of Soils did display such collections at world fairs. schools teaching agriculture & physical Dr. Helms thought that the NAL would be the best fit for the geography. 24 | Page W V A P S S M A R C H 2 0 1 6 N E W S L E T T E R
collection and also provided a contact for the “Special Collections” section with the NAL. After evaluating all options, it appears for now, the 1916 soil collection will be headed to the NAL for possible display for its 100th Anniversary. A fitting end to indeed a real “Soil Treasure”. Dr. Helms provided additional information and research into the proper citations for the collection and publication.
Figure 4. Map of the United States by Region showing 13 regions taken from “Soils of the United States”. (Edition, 1913.), United States Department of Agriculture, U.S. Bureau of Soils, Bulletin 96, 1913. Photo courtesy of Dr. Dennis Merkel.
About the authors: Eileen Miller is a Soil Health Specialist with the USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service. She holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Environmental Studies from the Richard Stockton College of NJ and is a graduate of the NJ Agricultural Leadership Development Program. She began her career as an Earth Team Volunteer, and has spent the majority of the last twenty years as a Soil Conservationist, working in several NJ field offices. Currently, she provides training to field office personnel, landowners, farmers, urban & community gardeners, science teachers, master gardeners, and anyone else interested in maintaining or improving the condition of their soil. Eileen is passionate about her purpose and enjoys working with others to promote awareness of soil as a critical and essential natural resource. Susan Demas, is a graduate of the University of Maryland College Park, MD with a double major in soil science and turf grass management. She is a 20‐year employee of The USDA NRCS. Besides having started her career as a soil conservationist in Tennessee, she mapped soils as a field soil scientist and project leader for NRCS in Maryland and Delaware, she is presently a MLRA Soil Scientist working in the Mid‐Atlantic Coastal Plain. Susan is also serving a three‐year term on the Executive Council of the West Virginia Association of Professional Soil Scientists.
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Soil Erosion Service Project 13, Roane County West Virginia By Rob Pate (Resource Soil Scientist ‐ WV NRCS)
On September 13, 1933, the Soil Erosion Service (SES) was founded under the Department of the Interior. The SES was transferred to the United States Department of Agriculture on March 23, 1935, and would later become the Soil Conservation Service (SCS). On October 20, 1994, under President Bill Clinton, SCS became the Natural Resources Conservation Service. Everyone has heard of the Dust Bowl, and the wind erosion problems that poor farming methods caused on the Great Plains in the early 1930’s. What everyone doesn’t know, is that one of the very first erosion control projects in the country was here in West Virginia, in Roane County before the founding of the SES. Project 13 was established in western West Virginia, because of the inferior farming methods, lack of conservation practices, and the highly erosive silt loam soils in this part of the state. Severe erosion led to large areas of gullied and barren ground, and eroded fields and pasture with substantially reduced yields, clogged Figure 1. Stunted corn on a severely eroded ridgetop with 25 to 35 percent slopes. Reedy Creek Project 13, circa 1933. stream beds with sediment (Figure 1). Project 13 included 152,000 acres in part of the Little Kanawha River Watershed in Roane, Wirt, and Wood Counties (Fig. 2). Headquarters were established in Spencer, WV with Soil Erosion Service specialists in agronomy, forestry, soil chemistry, and engineering. These technical specialists supervised enrollees at local Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) camps in establishing conservation practices on cooperating farms within the project area. One CCC camp in Elizabeth, WV operated a limestone quarry and crushing plant, where thousands of tons of ground limestone were provide to farmers. Another CCC camp, at the mouth of Cranenest Run, just southeast of Reedy, became the nursery to provide great quantities of tree seedlings that were needed for reforestation and erosion control (Figures 3 and 4). Many black walnut trees were planted at this time for erosion control, which in future years, led to the initiation of the Black Walnut, an event held annually to this day. Other CCC camps around the state were Figure 2. Location of Roane, Wirt, and Wood Counties, located at Ripley, Jane Lew, Nutter Fort, Beverly, West Virginia and Project 13. 26 | Page W V A P S S M A R C H 2 0 1 6 N E W S L E T T E R
Moundsville, and Ronceverte, WV. By early 1935, Project 13 had 149 employees, which included 33 trainees and all members of the technical staff. By then, SCS had signed 426 conservation contracts with cooperating farmers, covering a whopping 51,908 acres of farmland. When weather permitted, field men delivered lime to cooperating farmers, the engineers built check dams and surveyed farms, and the foresters planted walnut seedlings (Figures 5, 6 and 7). Later, SCS aided farmers in establishing Soil Conservation Districts through the enactment of the “Conservation Districts Law of West Virginia” on June 10, 1939. During this time, there was a lot Figure 3. Early photograph of the CCC nursery at the mouth of Cranenest Run, Route 14, southeast of Reedy, Roane County, of local discussion about if it was worth it or not, WV circa 1933. for the federal government to put all this money, time, and effort into erosion control. The following is part of a letter to the editor, from A. M. Hersman, printed in the Roane County Reporter, dated February 28, 1935. “There has been a great deal said about the Erosion Project and its alleged “waste of money”. However, there is nothing new in all this talk. Many of us can remember the things that were said about the Farmers’ Institutes of some 40 years ago, and later about the county agents ‐ things that were said by the farmers of the county who were following in the same old rut in which their fathers trod, such as raising 25 or 30 bushels of corn, five or ten bushels of wheat per acre. We know that the only way to convince a farmer—and most other folks—is to show him; and there are even a lot of people who won’t be shown! Three years ago we raised 90 bushels of corn on the same ground that, 40 years ago, produced only 40 bushels, (which I then thought was a good crop), and we also cut two stacks of hay, where we used to cut but one, and our hay is now largely white top. Why the increase? Because of the knowledge obtained by the experiment stations and passed on to us by the above named organizations, with the aid of the press.There are those who read, but there are thousands who do not, so the only way is to go to the farm and show them: in fact, most all of us need personal instruction. I have often heard of those of a past generation complaining of their meadows not cutting more than half the hay they once cut, and that clover no longer came up regularly in their meadow, and that they could not get a stand Figure 4. Soil Erosion Service vehicles at the CCC nursery, when the seed was sown. But, they had no idea Cranenest Run, Roane County for delivery and use by all CCC of why it was so. They would tell you positively camps in West Virginia. that lime and fertilizer ruined land. Those who 27 | Page W V A P S S M A R C H 2 0 1 6 N E W S L E T T E R
tried it knew better, but there are many who have not changed their minds. For the past 20 years, men have been saying that the grass is gone, and that they cannot graze more than half the number of cattle they once grazed on the same number of acres. They wonderw ho they will get rid of broomsedge, and get back a good bluegrass sod. I am of the opinion that these Soil Erosion men will show us if we will but let them. Thousands in China die annually from starvation although, if their lands had been cared for properly, such would not be the case. They have let that giant—EROSION—carry their alluvial soil away and deposit it in the Figure 5. SES employees evaluating a soil slip on Reedy Creek ocean. Project 13. Thousands of acres in the South have been denuded of their soil in the same manner, and much of our own has gone down the Mississippi to help build the delta that is forming in the Gulf of Mexico. And still, we have done nothing to prevent this waste! Certainly, the entire nation is interested, for thoughtful men know that we are living from the soil. Why, therefore, should the government not take the lead in preserving that, upon which future generations depend for their existence? Especially those who have it under their control, who fail, through ignorance or otherwise, to preserve it? The government has subsidized ships, spent many millions to send privately‐owned merchant vessels out over the waters, loaned many more millions to the railroads at a low interest rate. And there has been but little criticism because it is of interest to the entire nation. But when it comes to helping an industry, upon which not only the nation but the whole world depends for food and raiment—even the farmer himself raises a Figure 6. Delivering agricultural lime from the Elizabeth CCC Camp to a farmer (Take note of the window of the vehicle on the right of the howl. I wonder why? ” A. M. Hersman photo which reads, “US Department of the Interior Soil Erosion) February 20, 1935.
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Figure 7. Soil Erosion Employee, Bob Kopple, Agronomist or Farm Planner, circa 1933.
References from the WV Division of Culture and History, Archives: ‐ Gene Elmore Photo Collection ‐ Box Ms85‐17, Civilian Conservation Corps Collection, Kanawha State Forest, Box 3, Folder: CCC Soil Conservation Projects, Roane, Wirt, Wood
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Featured Links to Soil Resources By Katey Yoast
o Latest Crop Science Society of America’s news article featuring an interesting article about subaqueous soils featuring Susan’s late husband, George Demas https://soils.org/publications/csa/pdfs/60/1/4 o IYS from SSSA https://www.soils.org/IYS o NRCS ‐ National Cooperative Soil Survey’s youtube channel for soil science seminars https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCqWbDV7‐rsBe_dtwm4QqwJA o Cornell University transnational learning soil science seminar series https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLs7Y2nGwfz4HPoRAaB64c‐MdF1kK‐P‐Wy
WVAPSS Merchandise Available
We have cotton t‐shirts in two designs, as well as embroidered oxford dress shirts, embroidered polo shirts, and embroidered hat available for purchase. Display your WVAPSS pride and support educational opportunities for West Virginia’s students!
You can view all apparel at wvapss.org/merchandise.htm An order form for the t‐shirts is available at wvapss.org/order_form_2010a.pdf An order form for the embroidered shirts and hats is available at wvapss.org/order_form_2010b.pdf
We will be accepting orders on a continuing basis, and once orders for a minimum of six of any item have been received by WVAPSS, a production order can be placed with the company producing the apparel. Please note that the order forms are fillable PDF, such that you may choose :to
Complete the fillable form then click on the "Submit" button to have an electronic version submitted directly to WVAPSS (may not work on all computers), Complete the fillable form, print it, and send it by mail to WVAPSS, or Print the form, complete it, and send it by mail to WVAPSS.
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Upcoming Events By Katey Yoast
Event Date Location Reference 8th Annual International http://www.midatlanticsoils Acid Sulfate Soils July 17th‐23rd, 2016 College Park, MD cientists.org/acid‐sulfate‐ Conference soils‐conference/ PAPSS 2016 Summer Field http://www.papss.org/ Tour: A Soil and Erie Conservation Geomorphology tour of Erie June 10th‐11th, 2016 District (1927 County, PA Wager Road, Erie, PA 16509)
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