The Soil Your Undies Challenge is a simple, hands-on way to observe soil health in action. Participants bury a pair of 100% cotton underwear in their yard, garden, or a selected greenspace and dig it up weeks later to assess how much has decomposed. The level of breakdown serves as a clear indicator of biological activity in the soil.
Healthy soil is a living ecosystem. Microorganisms such as bacteria and fungi—along with worms, insects, and other soil-dwelling organisms—break down organic matter, cycle nutrients, support plant growth, and influence water movement and carbon storage. High decomposition suggests an active, vibrant soil community; limited breakdown can indicate compaction, low organic matter, or reduced microbial life.
The Soil Your Undies Challenge helps participants
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- Observe soil biology in a direct, accessible way
- Understand how soil organisms contribute to ecosystem health
- Learn practices that support healthy soil at home or in shared spaces
- Contribute to a broader picture of soil conditions across the watershed
2026 soil challenge details TBD — please stay tuned.
