Penn State Extension of Allegheny County is offering classes on the Chemical and the Physical properties of Urban Soils at their Extension Office in Point Breeze. The classes will be taught by Penn State University professors of Soil Science.

Class I: The Chemical Side of Urban Soils
Friday, November 11, 2011

Soil quality is a function of its physical, chemical and biological properties which interact to affect important soil processes including water infiltration, percolation, retention and storage, aeration, nutrient storage, and decomposition. This session will emphasize the chemical properties of soils with discussion on soil testing, soil fertility, and dealing with high levels of heavy metals.

Class II: The Physical Side of Urban Soils
Thursday, November 17, 2011

This session will examine physical properties of soils in undisturbed, natural environments vs. soils in the urban/suburban environment. Topics include physical properties of soils and how they affect site stability, storm water management, erosion control, soil mechanics, the soil’s ability to support vegetation, and human health. We will also cover how to conduct a site assessment for an urban soil assessment.

Registration for each class is $20 or register for BOTH classes for $30.00. To register, call Tawnesha at Penn State Extension:  412-473-2540. Class size is limited to the first 60 registrants.