MO DIRT - Missourians Doing Impact Research Together, is a citizen science initiative to educate citizens on the importance of healthy soils and engage them in examining the current properties of our state soils and how these are being influenced by land use and and climate change. The soil health surveys are conducted by volunteer citizens working as individuals or in small teams (~2-5 people). They measure indicators of soil health in sites that are representative of natural systems (prairie, forest, woodland) or agricultural systems (grassland, crop fields, pastures). Urban or suburban gardens are not included. The sites are monitored monthly between February and November for at least one year. Participants can join anytime. The data generated from the soil surveys provides baseline information that is shared through an open access online website. This information provides educators with access to data for teaching purposes. Scientists will use this data to better understand the health status of Missouri soils with changing weather patterns leading to climate change.
WHEN: June 29, 2016, 9:00 am – 12:30 pm.
WHERE: 1400 South Highway Drive, Fenton, MO 63029, Maritz campus. Bring an ID and register at the lobby.
WHAT: Participants will learn about soil science, how to monitor soil health by measuring soil physical, chemical, and biological indicators, and how to contribute data.
WHO: Volunteer citizens (teachers, high school students, land owners, youth groups, etc.). Interested high school students are encouraged to attend the training even if their teachers cannot attend.
COST: Free
WHAT YOU WILL GET: If you decide to join the soil health surveys project you will receive a manual and a soil kit free of charge.
REGISTER AT: MODirt@danforthcenter.org; 314.587.1412
To download a pdf of this announcement click here.
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