What is "Soil Science"?

As defined in Wis. Stat. § 470.01(9), soil science is a science that involves the study of soils between the surface of the earth and bedrock, including the study of natural or human processes or forces that occur in soils, and the investigation and collection of data concerning soils, including data regarding the interaction of soils with other gases, solids or fluids or living organisms.

What is the "Practice of Professional Soil Science"?

Wis. Stat. § 470.01(4) defines the practice of soil science to include the performance of or offer to perform any service or work related to soil science in which the public welfare or the safeguarding of life, health, environment or property is concerned or involved. "Practice of professional soil science" includes the collection of soil data, consultation, investigation, evaluation, interpretation, planning or inspection relating to a service or work that applies soil science.

Is a License Required to Work as a Professional Soil Scientist?

Yes. No person may engage or offer to engage in the practice of professional soil science, designate himself or herself as a professional soil scientist, use or assume the title "professional soil scientist" or any other title, letters or designation which represents or may tend to represent the person as a professional soil scientist unless the person is licensed by the professional soil scientist section of the examining board of professional geologists, hydrologists and soil scientists. [See Wis. Stat. § 470.02(3).]

Are There Exceptions to the Requirement for the Need for Licensure?

Yes, exceptions are listed in Wis. Stat. § 470.025.

Is There a Code of Ethics for my Profession?

Yes, Wis. Admin. Code ch. GHSS 5 provides the rules of conduct of the profession. Violating the rules of this Chapter may result in disciplinary action taken against a licensee.