Explore the physical, chemical, and biological properties of natural soils and the characteristics of the native plant communities growing in them. Plant growth reciprocally modifies soil properties. This class will explore the ways that natural soils and native plants together form unique systems with interdependent living and non-living characteristics. Methods for amending compromised soils to improve plant growth, and the technique for obtaining a soil sample for testing will be demonstrated. This class will include some field work.