The practice of soil science in Arkansas is regulated by the Arkansas Department of Agriculture. Originally established under Act 460 of 1975, the profession of Soil Classifying was regulated by the Arkansas State Board of Registration for Professional Soil Classifiers. Act 691 of 2023 abolished the board and transferred all regulatory authority to the Arkansas Natural Resources Commission.
Educational Requirements
Applicants must hold:
- A Bachelor of Science or higher degree in agricultural or physical sciences
- At least 30 semester hours in biological, physical, or earth sciences
- At least 15 semester hours in soil science, including:
- Soil classification and genesis
- Field instruction in site evaluation and soil description
Experience Requirements
Soil Classifier-In-Training
If you completed an approved soil science curriculum:
- No experience is required.
If you completed an unapproved curriculum:
- You must have 1 year of soil mapping and evaluation experience under:
- The National Cooperative Soil Survey Program, or
- A registered professional soil classifier
- Supervision must involve direct, on-site observation and training, unless otherwise approved.
Professional Soil Classifier
Applicants must have:
- A valid SCIT certificate
- 1 year of supervised field experience (or 2 years without SCIT)
- Demonstrated independent productivity
- A supervisor-approved and documented training plan (if outside of NCSS Program)
Application for Registration
Applications must be submitted using the official form and must include:
- Five references (3 from professional soil classifiers, 2 character references)
- Certified college transcripts
- Detailed work history
- Examples of soil science work and professional contributions
The Department may request additional documentation or an in-person appearance.
Exams
Soil Classifier-In-Training
- Fundamentals of Soil Classification – 75% to pass
- Field Examination – 75% to pass
Professional Soil Classifier
- Fundamentals of Soil Classification – 75%
- Principles and Practice of Soil Classifying – 75%
- Field Examination – 75%
Applicants may take both written exams on the same day. All applicants will receive written notice at least 20 days in advance of the exam date and location.
Field Exams
Applicants must demonstrate proficiency through:
- Field mapping
- Soil profile description
- On-site interpretation for specific uses
A 75% cumulative score is required to pass.
Fees
| Applications | $20.00 | |
| Initial Registration, Soil Classifier | $60.00 | |
| Initial Certification, Soil Classifier-In-Training | $50.00 | valid for four years |
| Reexamination | $20.00 | |
| Registration Renewal, Soil Classifier | $20.00 | |
| Late Renewals: Soil Classifier | $30.00 | plus $2.00 per month for each expired month |
Late renewals may be affected for up to three years. They are effective on August 1, following the June in which the certificate expired.
| Temporary Permits: | |
| Initial | $75.00 |
| Renewal | $60.00 |
Forms
Program Contact: Mary Elizabeth Lea
Email: [email protected]
Phone: (501) 682-3953