By Scout Nelson
Watertown is set to welcome young environmental enthusiasts for the 40th Rangeland and 19th Soils Days. Slated for June 12-13, 2024, this educational extravaganza, co-hosted by SDSU Extension, Codington Conservation District, and the South Dakota Natural Resources Conservation Service, aims to ignite a passion for rangeland and soils among youth.
Kicking off at 8:30 a.m. CST on June 12 at the Codington Extension Building, the event invites participants to immerse themselves in environmental science. With a robust schedule, day one focuses on field learning and contest prep, transitioning to presentations in the evening.
The competitive spirit takes center stage on day two with rangeland and soil judging contests, culminating in an awards ceremony.
Diving deeper, the Land and Homesite contest, for those aged 14-18, offers a closer look at soil health and land capability, enriching participants' understanding of soil texture and sustainable management practices.
Those interested in the intricacies of building foundations and landscape suitability will find the Homesite evaluation contest particularly enlightening. For contest details, Lance Howe and for range contest specifics, reach out to Emily Helms or Krista Ehlert.
Highlighting the importance of teamwork and individual effort, the event features four age-specific divisions in the Rangeland contest.
The pinnacle of success for teams in the Go Getter Range and Land and Homesite categories is the chance to represent South Dakota at the National Land and Range Judging Contest in Oklahoma City.
This event is not only a platform for learning but also a competition where the highest achievers are honored with the Rangeland Top Hand and Soils Top Hand awards, celebrating the outstanding contributions and learning of the participants.
To be part of this enriching experience, a registration fee of $40 ensures participation, meals included, with a registration deadline of June 2. For more details or to register, visit the event's registration page or send your registration to the Codington Conservation District.
Embrace this opportunity to explore South Dakota's natural resources and contribute to the stewardship of our planet's future. Join Watertown for an educational journey through the landscapes of rangeland and soils.
Photo Credit-gettyimages-zoran-zeremski
Categories: South Dakota, Education