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VIRTUAL LAND JUDGING - Intermediate Level
A site in western Kentucky has been selected for you to judge. Using the information provided, respond to the following questions.
1. The elevation of this site changes 10 feet in a distance of 100 feet. What is the percent slope of this site? 7 % 10 % 14% 2. Seven inches of topsoil are present at this site. What degree of erosion has taken place at this site? None to Slight Moderate Severe 3. The soil at this site has a silt loam texture. How would the workability of this soil be rated? Medium Good Poor 4. The depth of soil above a root zone limiting layer (fragipan) is 30 inches at this site. What is the "depth of root zone" rating for this site? Good Moderate Poor 5. Erosion hazard refers to the potiental risk of damage to the production capacity of the soil "if" soil erosion should occur. Erosion hazard is influenced by steepness of slope and depth of root zone. Using your ratings for slope and rooting depth, what is the erosion hazard rating for this site? Good Poor Moderate

6. Subsoil shows gray drainage mottling starting 25 inches from the surface. What is the aeration and drainage rating for this site? Good Moderate Poor 7. The combination of soil texture, root zone depth, percentage slope and amount of erosion influence the ability of soil to supply moisture to plants. Using the ratings you've already assigned to these 4 factors, how would you rate the ability to this soil to supply moisture to plants? Poor Moderate Good 8. Soils are grouped in capability classes to indicate limitations in use and risk of damage by farming practices. Determine the overall capability class for this site? Class I Class II Class III Score = Correct answers:

Congratulations! You have finished an Intermediate level land judging example. As you develop confidence in these basic soil concepts, challenge yourself by judging an Advanced level site.
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