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SOIL YOUR UNDIES CHALLENGE

The soil under our feet is much more than just dirt. In fact, it is an ecosystem full of life. One teaspoon of healthy soil contains more microbes than there are people on the planet.  These microbes break down organic matter like cotton, while also helping soil retain nutrients and moisture. Healthy soil is vital to farmers as well as all plants, animals, and humans.  Join us! Choose a location. Dig a hole and plant the undies at least 4 inches deep.  Place a marker so you can find the site again!

 

Make some observations and write them down on a 3x5 card:

  • What color is the soil?

  • Can you see any organisms in the soil?

  • How does the soil feel (sticky, grainy, hard, soft)?

  • Wait 60 days. Carefully dig up your undies. How have they changed?

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Soil Your Undies.jpg

Bring your undies and your observation card to the Fluvanna County Fair for display on the Soil Your Undies clothesline.

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  The drop off location at the County Fair: Look for the burgundy Farm Bureau tent near the front of the Fair, in the area of the beer garden.

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​Hang your undies on the clothesline, using the pins provided.  You should also bring a small card that gives some information about where you buried the undies and what the soil was like.  If you can include a small sealed bag of the soil for display, that would be great. 

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Haven't buried your undies in time for the Fluvanna County Fair?  You still have time to complete this challenge at the State Fair of Virginia. https://www.statefairva.org/.../horticulture-competitions​​​

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