Make & Take Activity – Edible Soil Profile

1. Ask youth, “If we could cut straight down into the ground, what do you think we would see?” Explain that soil is arranged in layers called horizons.
2. Introduce four layers in this simplified model: topsoil, where many roots and organisms are found; subsoil, where minerals and clay can accumulate; parent material, the partly weathered material from which soil develops; and bedrock, the solid rock beneath the soil.
3. Ask, “Which layer do farmers rely on most for growing crops?” Emphasize that fertile topsoil supplies plants with water, air, nutrients, and space for roots to grow.

1. Place one whole chocolate sandwich cookie flat in the bottom of the clear cup. This represents bedrock.
2. Add a layer of chocolate chips above the cookie. This represents parent material.
3. Spoon chocolate pudding over chocolate chips. This represents the subsoil.
4. Sprinkle crushed chocolate sandwich cookies over the pudding. This represents the nutrient-rich topsoil.
5. Place gummy worms on or partly into the topsoil. Discuss how earthworms and other organisms live in soil and help break down organic matter and create spaces for air and water.
6. Review the model from bottom to top: bedrock, parent material, subsoil, and topsoil. Then enjoy the edible soil profile!

Healthy soil is one of a farmer’s most important resources. Crop roots grow mainly in topsoil and subsoil, drawing in water and nutrients. Because topsoil forms very slowly, farmers work to keep it in place and functioning well. Practices such as planting cover crops, rotating crops, reducing tillage, maintaining plant residue, and using terraces or grassed waterways can reduce erosion and build soil health. Farmers also test soil so they can make informed decisions about nutrients and crop needs. Protecting soil today helps Nebraska farms continue producing food, feed, fuel, and fiber in the future.