Neil Sass, a Soil Scientist with the National Resource Conservation Service (NRCS), and Alisha Sedlmayr, a Soil Health Specialist, visited the Plant Science classes at Prairie High School. The experts provided students with a hands-on introduction to soil science and its practical applications.

Sass discussed the significance of soil science in his career at the NRCS, emphasizing its role in soil sampling, understanding Conservation Scorecard (CSR2) values, and determining optimal land uses for wetlands, construction sites, and other purposes.

Sedlmayr focused on the connection between farming practices and soil health. She demonstrated how tillage and no-till methods can impact soil structure and explained the benefits of sustainable agricultural practices. The team also guided students through a soil test pit at the Prairie Learning Farm, preparing them for the upcoming soil judging contest and class assessment.

“Bringing in experts like Neil and Alisha really brings our curriculum to life,” said Ag Instructor and FFA Advisor Laura Brecht. “Our students are seeing firsthand how soil science can be applied to real-world problems and make a positive impact.”