2026 Soil and Water Stewardship Week
April 26-May 3, 2026

Compost Stew

This year we are featuring the book Compost Stew by Mary McKenna Siddals.

Each library in Lancaster County will receive a copy of this book in honor of our stewardship week.

Coloring Contest for all ages

K4 to Adults

You may pick up your coloring sheet at any Lancaster County Library or you may find it here.

You have two pictures to choose from.

Deadline to enter is

May 12, 2026

Prizes awarded in each category for 1st, 2nd, and 3rd place

BE CREATIVE!

Video Length up to 60 seconds

Theme is Soil!

Some Ideas:

“What is Soil Made Of?”
- Break down the components of soil (minerals, organic matter, water, air) with visuals and simple explanations.
Soil Horizons Explained
- Show a cross-section of soil layers (O, A, B, C horizons) and explain their roles.
The Soil Food Web
- Highlight the organisms living in soil—bacteria, fungi, earthworms—and how they interact.
Soil Health Indicators
- Demonstrate easy ways to check soil health (texture test, infiltration test, smell test).
DIY Soil Texture Test
- Show how to do the jar test to determine sand, silt, and clay proportions.
Water Infiltration Challenge
- Compare infiltration rates in healthy soil vs. compacted soil.
Cover Crops in Action
- Show how cover crops improve soil structure and prevent erosion.
“Soil Myths Busted!”
- Debunk common misconceptions like “dirt and soil are the same thing.”
Time-Lapse of Soil Erosion
- Show how bare soil erodes compared to soil with vegetation.
Soil Around the World
- Showcase different soil types and colors from various regions.
Why Soil Matters for Climate
- Explain soil’s role in carbon storage and climate resilience.
The Journey of a Raindrop
- Show how soil affects water infiltration and runoff.
Soil and Food Security
- Connect healthy soil to healthy crops and global food supply.