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Gisborne: Dig deeper soil microscopy workshop pt1


  • Gisborne, Gisborne New Zealand (map)

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Hosted by Radice Soil Solutions

FREE to attend

To reserve your spot, contact Bridget French-Hall 06 869 3187 / 027 252 6944

A free 4-day workshop on soil health and microscopy to learn about using a microscope to assess soil and biostimulants 16-17 and 23-24 Feb.

Download the ‘Dig deeper soil microscopy’ workshop program flyer (PDF).

Workshop details

16 Feb: Understanding soil and its importance

Introduction to Soil:

Explain the components of soil (minerals, organic matter, water, air, and living organisms). Discuss soil formation processes and factors affecting soil development.

Historical Perspective:

Explore historical practices that led to soil degradation.

Emphasize the importance of sustainable soil management

Soil Functions:

Highlight the diverse roles of soil, including nutrient cycling, water filtration, and supporting plant life. Discuss how soil contributes to ecosystem services. Restoration Principles:

Showcase successful case studies of soil restoration projects.

17 Feb: The soil microcosm - who lives in soil?

Microbial Diversity:

Explore the various microorganisms in soil, focusing on bacteria, fungi, protozoa, amoeba, ciliate, flagellate, and nematodes.

Explain their roles in nutrient cycling and the interconnected soil food web.

Practical Recognition:

Participants learn hands-on activities to identify and recognize soil organisms.

why measure not just numbers but also biomass and diversity.

23 Feb: Microscopy and soil assessment techniques

Introduction to Microscopy:

Provide a basic overview of microscopy and its applications in soil science.

Demonstrate proper microscope usage and care.

Sample Collection and Slide Preparation:

Conduct a practical session on collecting soil samples and preparing slides.

Emphasize techniques to avoid contamination.

Soil Sample Assessment:

Guide participants through assessing soil samples under the microscope.

Encourage discussions on what constitutes a healthy soil sample.

24 Feb: Practical solutions and hands-on activities

Composting Techniques:

Detail three composting methods: static, thermophilic, and worm composting.

Discuss the advantages of each method and their role in soil enrichment.

Compost Extracts and Brews:

Explain the preparation of compost extracts or brews. Highlight their significance in enhancing soil microbial diversity.

Microscopic Analysis in Practice:

Demonstrate how to use a microscope to evaluate the microbial diversity in compost and compost extracts.

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15 February

Hawke’s Bay: Unleash productive potential workshop

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19 February

Northland: Reimagining a low emissions future for Te Tai Tokerau Northland