The British Society of Soil Science (BSSS) is inviting expressions of interest from members to take part in the 5th International Soil Judging Contest, held in Nanjing and Jurong, Jiangsu Province, China, from 2–6 June 2026, which is alongside the 23rd World Congress of Soil Science (WCSS).
Soil judging is a soil description and classification competition where no prior experience is required as all training will be provided. Participants will develop practical soil description and interpretation skills and gain valuable international networks.
Competition Overview:
- Venue: Nanjing & Jurong, Jiangsu Province, China
- Dates: 2–6 June 2026
- Team: 4 competitors + 1 coach (with option for a second coach)
The contest includes:
- Lectures and guided training sessions
- Field-based soil description and judging
- Group and individual pit descriptions
- Interpretation for land use, hydrology, erosion, and classification (WRB & USDA Soil Taxonomy)
- Awards for individual and team performance
Eligibility:
- Be registered students (undergraduate, MSc, or PhD) at the time of the competition or in the preceding semester
- And/or hold UK nationality
- Be available for the full duration of the competition
BSSS is willing to financially support a team of four (plus one coach) in participating. This support includes competition registration, accommodation and meals, a budget for travel and visas. The Society will also provide the team with training opportunities and resources prior to competition provided by Jay Ryan and Richard Hewison.
If you are interested in participating, please send an expression of interest to admin@soils.org.uk by Monday 9 February 2026.
To find out more information about the competition visit: https://www.23wcss.org.cn/fe/index.html.
