NSCSS: Support for Soil Science Licensing

In 2008 NSCSS responded to threats to existing state soil science licensing programs in Florida and Virginia. These threats developed without our being aware of them until it was too late for us to be effective. Our limited success in these efforts, which occurred despite a strong NSCSS member base in the southeastern region, strengthened our resolve. In 2009 NSCSS provided cost share support for state licensing efforts in Washington and South Carolina. The Board has resolved to limit that support to matching donations made by individual NSCSS members, a feature which assures that the effort is judged worthy of support by our members. As revised on November 23, 2009, the 2009 budget included $2500 to support state licensing, consistent with previous precedent set by Board:

• Match donations of NSCSS membership in support of state licensing efforts
• Limit of $1500 per state per year.
• State association must submit supporting documentation.

A tally of check numbers, dates, payee/payer and assurance that the funds were committed only to professional licensing and registration efforts: these are the elements of a successful request.