The only thing worse than sampling heavy clay on a rainy day is writing an article about yourself, particularly a letter of introduction. But as the newest Soil Conservationist (David Shortt has moved his coffee mug across the hallway to Lands Branch), I have no choice but to talk about myself.
I had my first taste of dirt with Soil Survey in southwestern Saskatchewan. For five years, I dodged dust storms, wrestled rattlesnakes, and (in my spare time) mapped soil. It was the greatest foundation a soil scientist could ever receive in establishing oneself in the fine profession. (That's my plug for the Soils Department, U. of S.)
I eventually developed agoraphobia on the open plains, so I headed north to the dense, breathless bush. Armed with DEET, pepper spray, and my trusty old auger, I battled black flies and black bears in the boreal forest with the BOREAS (Boreal Ecosystem - Atmospheric Study) project. For I measured gas emissions (from the soil, that is) and dug pits that would make any grave digger proud while studying my masters program.
After too much education and not enough employment, I did what any respectable Ag grad would do - I went farming. I thought it would give me some time to relax, and pay a few bills (yeah, right!). It wasn't long before I was experiencing conservation withdrawal, so I jumped on as research manager of a precision farming project north of the 53o.
That's where I was when the SSCA found me outstanding in my field (literally). I was pleased and proud when they decided to make me part of their team.
And here I am the new guy, taking minutes at the meetings and having been threatened with "we'll make you ride with Juanita". But seriously, it's a relief to be back in the busy hum of the "anti-dust bowl" think tank.
Once a dirt person, always a dirt person.