UW-Platteville’s Soils Judging Team will be traveling to Texas next month in hopes of claiming its 12th national championship.

Chris Baxter, assistant professor of agronomy and the Soils Judging Team adviser, said the team consists of 12 students who classify soils into 12 general classes. Every soil can be described by classification, but the soils are also described and identified in great detail.

“Students use a key to help identify soils, but it is difficult when we cannot practice with the soils in their natural environment,” Baxter said. “A lot of research has to go into the preparation for competition. We observe samples from the area and practice at least two hours a week.”

Since the team started in 1967, The team has earned 11 national titles.

“Platteville easily has the best record in the country,” Baxter said.

The team will leave for the national competition in Lubbock, Texas, on Friday, March 19 and return on Saturday, March 27.

The team will receive $3,500 from the Segregated University Fees Allocation Commission, and has a total budget of $5,000.

“I would love to take all of the students, but we really only have the budget to take five,” Baxter said.

“I coach the team because I feel that it is a valuable experience for students, and it is an experience they cannot receive in a regular classroom,” Baxter said.

“It is a great learning experience with excellent networking and travel opportunities,” said Drew Nesemeier, a senior crop and science major and member of the Soils Judging Team.

Soil and crop credits can be obtained through competing with the team, Nesemeier said.

Baxter said all students are welcome to join the soils judging team, regardless of major. Interested students can contact Baxter at 342.1388 or via e-mail at baxterch@uwplatt.edu.