Soil Science requires both qualitative and quantitative understanding of chemical, physical, and biological processes that occur in soils. Soils studies allow us to optimize use and preservation of land for agriculture, forestry, recreation, transportation systems, urban development, and many other endeavors

Come learn about the soils and geology of the Hawaiian Islands and the Hilo Bay Watershed.  Find out how the Hawaiian Islands were created and the different soils that make up Hawaii’s unique landscapes. Discover the variety of work performed by a soil scientist including how soil surveys are completed. Experience the texture of a variety of soil types through fun, hands-on activities. 

Amy Saunders is a Soil Scientist with the United States Department of Agriculture Natural Resources Conservation Service (USDA NRCS). She has been working with the Hawaii Island Soil Survey for three years and has also worked with the NRCS in Wyoming. Amy has an undergraduate degree in Environmental Science from Virginia Tech and a master’s degree in Soil Science from Utah State University.