Grade 3

Synopsis: 

This project has been one of my favorite experiments that we do each year. This year will mark the fifth year tradition of testing the soil at NHCS. In the past we have tested various areas of the school yard, the crop plots as well as the garden soil. This year we are stepping it up and testing different animal manure! Students will divide the garden into 6 sections. One section will be the control, while the others will be each be the different manure. We want to determine if a specific manure will improve the soil better than the others. 

Mrs. Besler was invited into class to discuss the purpose of this experiment and how it will benefit our school's garden. She spoke to the steps taken to get the garden prepared for us i.e. harvesting and rototilling.  Mrs. Besler also spoke about the yellow bins in the farm yard and how we will use them in this experiment. 

After, students went outside to map out the garden plan ensuring to document everything on paper as well. The undies were labelled, buried and then each section of the garden recieved a blanket of manure. Students were divided into teams so that everyone was able to participate. 

The hardest part about this experiment is waiting for spring! Once the snow has melted and the ground thaws we will uncover the undies and will conduct various soil tests to see if the manures had different (or similar) impacts on the soil. Stay tuned for part 2!

Charter Connections

• Soil Health

• Land Sustainability

• Stewardship of the Land

• Animal Husbandry