AGA 157 - Soil Fertility

1. Demonstrate a knowledge of soil as a medium for plant growth
   1. Define soil
   2. Explain how the three phase soil system impacts plant growth
   3. Describe how hydroponics differs from soil as a growing medium
   4. Identify the 17 essential nutrients for plant growth
   5. Summarize how photosynthesis impacts the water and oxygen requirements
2. Explain the soil formation process
   1. Explain the process of weathering and formation of parent material
   2. Demonstrate a knowledge of soil formation, profile formation and classification
   3. Identify the five soil forming factors
3. Compare the physical properties of soil
   1. Identify the differences between soil separates
   2. Demonstrate soil texture classification using the textural triangle, field method (ribbon test) or hydrometer method
   3. Identify structural classification of soil peds
   4. Determine soil color using Munsell Color Chart
   5. Compare and/or evaluate soil profiles
4. Analyze land use interpretations
   1. Identify a plot of land given a legal description
   2. Calculate land area, length and percent slope
   3. Demonstrate use of land surveying and measuring instruments
   4. Evaluate a soil classification map
   5. Differentiate land capability classes with the aid of a soil survey
   6. Compare soil limitations and potentials and develop a land management plan
5. Interpret soil evaluation.
   1. Perform soil sampling techniques
   2. Perform soil test analysis for N-P-K and pH
   3. Interpret basic soil test for N-P-K and pH
   4. Identify the 17 macro and micro nutrients found within the soil
   5. Explain the role of primary and secondary nutrients in crop production
   6. Interpret fertilizer grades and ratios
   7. Compare fertilizer cost
   8. Calculate fertilizer cost based on nutrient recommendations
   9. Describe the benefits of animal waste as a source of soil nutrients
6. Compare soil erosion concerns
   1. Identify the different types of erosion associated with water and/or wind
   2. Explain the components of the Revised Universal Soil Loss Equation (RUSLE).
   3. Calculate soil loss using the USLE
   4. Calculate the economic impact of soil erosion
   5. Explain soil and water conservation practices