CFB Soil Science & Amendments

Question 1

What sand particle size range does the USGA recommend for sports field root zones?

Accepted Answer

0.25–1.0 mm (medium to coarse sand)

Answer

0.05–0.125 mm (very fine sand)

Answer

1.0–2.0 mm (very coarse sand)

Answer

2.0–4.0 mm (fine gravel)

Question 2

Which soil texture classification is generally considered most problematic for natural grass sports fields without significant amendment?

Accepted Answer

Clay

Answer

Sandy loam

Answer

Loam

Answer

Silt loam

Question 3

What does the Standard Proctor Test determine?

Accepted Answer

Maximum dry density and optimum moisture content for compaction

Answer

Soil pH and lime requirement

Answer

Soil permeability rate

Answer

Organic matter percentage in the soil

Question 4

What is the optimal soil pH range for most cool-season turfgrasses used on sports fields?

Accepted Answer

6.0–7.0

Answer

4.5–5.5

Answer

7.5–8.5

Answer

8.0–9.0

Question 5

Which amendment is most commonly added to heavy clay subsoils to improve drainage on sports fields?

Accepted Answer

Coarse sand

Answer

Peat moss

Answer

Silt

Answer

Fine compost

Question 6

What does Cation Exchange Capacity (CEC) indicate about a soil?

Accepted Answer

The soil's ability to retain positively charged nutrient ions

Answer

The rate at which water drains through the profile

Answer

The total carbon content of the soil

Answer

The compressive strength of the soil under load

Question 7

What is the primary purpose of a soil percolation test conducted during sports field site evaluation?

Accepted Answer

To measure the rate at which water moves through the soil profile

Answer

To determine soil pH at various depths

Answer

To assess surface compaction levels with a penetrometer

Answer

To evaluate organic matter content using loss-on-ignition