Two Ohio teachers are using problem-based science to teach 6th graders about soil and water quality testing. Lora James and Nic Baumer, ag science educators at Benjamin Logan High School, received a mini-grant from the Ohio Corn Marketing Program to purchase $2000 of classroom supplies to implement Ohio Corn Education curriculum. Their FFA students spent the day teaching 6th graders why soil and water testing are the key to understanding nutrient availability and crop growth. By learning how to maintain the water quality and analyzing nutrient availability, the 6th graders will be able to grow vegetables with their new aquaponics unit provided by the OCMP. Their FFA group used the grant money to purchase water quality and soil testing kits to determine nutrients concentrations for hydroponics, aquaponics, and aeroponics presentations.
Nutrient availability and water stewardship through 4R certification are a high priority for the Ohio Corn & Wheat Association. Benjamin Logan’s FFA has provided its 6th graders with a great way to problem-solve nutrient concentrations in water in order to maintain their aquaponics unit and grow crops. Teacher Todd Shadley said, “The presentations went well. It was interesting to hear and learn about aquaponics. The high school students were very professional and worked well with the students.” James said, “The grant allowed us to work with area experts and promote water quality and agriculture. It is our hope the project will encourage students to take an active role in feeding the world and enroll in agricultural education classes.”
Learn more about how agriculture is advancing in nutrient usage at the March 7, 2106 Precision Agriculture Satellite Event at Legacy Cooperative.