OLWC is not running the Soil Your Undies event at this time, though we may bring it back in the future. We remain committed to helping the community understand the important role of soil health and how it supports our watershed, plants, and local ecosystems.
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
