Developing Elementary-Level Curriculum in Soil (Health) Appreciation: Progress Report

This BIOAg-funded progress report describes efforts to develop elementary-level soil health education materials and outreach activities focused on soil stewardship, biodiversity, and sustainable agriculture. The project worked with partners including the Palouse Discovery Science Center, Pullman High School, WSU Extension 4-H, and tribal educators to create hands-on STEM curriculum and community engagement opportunities for K–6 students. Activities included developing and teaching after-school classes on soil formation and soil biodiversity, supporting vermicomposting projects in high school science classrooms, and creating a “Soil Health Curriculum Toolkit” containing books, educational materials, and classroom resources for educators. The toolkit was piloted with the Colville Confederated Tribes for feedback and future refinement. Additional plans included developing soil-focused day camps, expanding web-based educational resources, and creating youth engagement activities connected to SoilCon 2022. The project aimed to increase soil health awareness among young learners while supporting broader public understanding of sustainable soil management practices.