Description:
Soils provide essential ecological functions and services that promote human well-being. From agriculture and groundwater purification, to climate regulation and erosion control, soil health plays a monumental role in shaping society. However, invasive species, shifting land use, climate change, and other anthropogenic stressors, threaten soil health globally. In order to better manage the soils of our gardens, parks, forests, and even urban centers, we need to better understand soil biology and the complexities associated with soil systems. This one-day course serves as an introduction to the history of soil science from its early beginnings through to the modern era with an emphasis on insights gleaned from case studies. Mark Highland will share some of his more challenging client requests and how he was able to satisfy them with a soils based approach. Eric holds a master's degree in soil ecology and has extensive experience working in the fields of forest and agricultural soil science. Mark received his degree from the Longwood Graduate Program focusing on compost and potting soil and started The Organic Mechanic Soil Company, LLC in 2006. This course carries 5.5 CEUs for ISA certified arborists (S=4.5, P=1, M=0). LA-CES credits for landscape architects have been applied for.