McMinnville High School (MHS) students placed sixth as a team in the Lower Willamette District FFA Soils Contest. Team members (from left) include Luis Garibaldo, Kaylyn Clevenger, Hailey Ginther, Marina Nash and Taylor Ames.
Junior Kaylyn Clevenger placed ninth in the beginning soils contest.
The competition involves evaluating soil texture and structure by viewing and interacting with the soil’s profile, according to adviser Kerry Naylor, who also leads the MHS Horticulture Pathway program.
“A soil’s profile is made up of horizons, or layers,” said Naylor. “Factors that affect soil management can include improving drainage, correcting pH, reducing erosion, improving fertility and the overall depth of the soil.
“The soil depth and source of soil can influence how the soil is used,” she said. “Certain soils may be designated for dryland farming, irrigable row crops, forestry, grazing or even wine production.”
Photo submitted by Kerry Naylor