| License Description |
Soil Scientists study soil characteristics and map soil types, and investigate responses of soils to known management practices to determine use capabilities of soils and effects of alternative practices on soil productivity. Classify soils according to standard types; conduct experiments on farms or experimental stations to determine best soil types for different plants; perform chemical analysis on microorganism content of soil; and investigate responses of specific soil types to tillage, fertilization, nutrient transformation, crop rotation, environmental consequences, water, gas or heat flow, industrial waste control, and other soil management practices. They also advise interested persons on rural or urban land use.
Legislation: NH RSA 310-A:84; Administrative Rules Chapter Soil 100-500
Certification Requirements:
Must have one of the following qualifications:
- Be a graduate of an accredited four-year college curriculum leading to a baccalaureate degree, where the applicant successfully completed 30 semester hours in physical, biological, and earth science, including 15 semester hours in soil science, and have a specific record of an additional three or more years experience in the practice of soil science; or
- Be a graduate of an accredited college curriculum leading to a baccalaureate or an Associate's degree, where the applicant has completed 15 semester hours in soil science, and have a specific record of additional four or more years of experience in the practice of soil science (experience includes teaching soil science courses at the postsecondary level, summer employment, or actual field mapping in an apprenticeship program; each advanced degree counts as one year of experience); or
- Be a graduate of an accredited college curriculum leading to a baccalaureate or Associate's degree, or have earned the equivalent number of credits, and have a specific record of an additional six or more years in the practice of soil science
Examination: Written and field examinations required; includes reference to soil characteristics in the New England region
Continuing Education: 24 continuing education hours are required for renewal
Fees:
- Written exam: $125
- Field exam: $200
- Biennial renewal: $120
- Certificate as Soil Scientist: $125
- Certificate as apprentice: $75
- Late renewal (per month): $24
- Replacement certificate: $50
Certificates expire on the last day of the certificate holder's month of birth in the second year following year of issuance
Reciprocity: Permitted, provided that the other state's licensing requirements are substantially similar to, or higher than, those of this state, and provided that the other state certified soil scientists or wetland scientists under a similar provision
revised Jan 2018 |