OAR 603-080-0030: Acceptable Credentials

(1) Until January 1, 1997, the following credentials of soil scientists conducting the soil surveys are the minimally acceptable qualifications under ORS 215.710(5)(b)(A): (a) A soil scientist who is certified as a soils classifier by the ARCPACS (A Federation of Certifying Boards in Agronomy, Biology, Earth and Environmental Sciences); or (b) A soil scientist who can document the following qualifications: (A) Uses and understands the physical, chemical, mineralogical and biological properties that apply to pedology; (B) Has proficiency in the practice of applying pedology to soil investigation, classification, education, and consultation on the effect of measured, observed and inferred soil properties and their use. The practice of applying pedology includes the preparation of soil descriptions, maps, reports, and interpretations that apply to private or public work; and (C) Has a bachelor’s degree in soil science together with a minimum of five years of professional experience as a soils classifier, or has a master’s or doctoral degree in soil science together with a minimum of three years of professional experience as a soils classifier. (2) Beginning January 1, 1997, the only minimally acceptable credentials for a soil scientist under ORS 215.710(5)(b)(A) shall be a soil scientist certified as a soils classifier by ARCPACS (subsection (1)(a) of this rule). Soil scientists who documented their qualifications under subsection (1)(b) of this rule must be certified as a soils classifier on or before January 1, 1997, in order to continue to meet the minimally acceptable credentials for a soil scientist under ORS 215.710(5)(b)(A). (3) At its discretion, the department may verify the submitted credentials of a soil scientist.