Dr. Elaine Ingham – Microscope Class

“Eyes on” Knowledge

Shadowing Light Microscope Techniques

Identification of Bacteria, Fungi, Protozoa, Nematodes, etc.

See the Soil Universe Unfold Before Your Eyes

Learn how to operate a simple light microscope to obtain the best resolution of life in the soil.  Learn to identify the creatures in the soil, and differentiate beneficial from detrimental organisms.  Each participant should have their own microscope or partner with someone who has a microscope. A spreadsheet to convert visual results in the concentration of organisms per gram (teaspoon) of soil, and into biomass per gram will be explained (laptop required). Microscopes with cameras (smart phones work if you have steady hands) are strongly encouraged to record images of the organisms.  Practice sessions allow participants to analyze their own samples –  from soil, to compost, to extract and teas, to water samples, or food — and learn what biology is present.