Part D: Discuss the importance of the organic material (humus) in forming rich productive soils and what happens when it is lost. Students may research the causes of the Dust Bowl. Students should also be asked to draw conclusions about how soils may influence where people can grow crops (areas with adequate drainage, humus), pine forests (in sandy soil), and create rice and crawfish farms (clay foundations help to hold water). Invite a representative from the local Soil Conservation District office to speak about soil conservation.

Suggested websites for student research:

WORLD BOOK

http://www.worldbookonline.com

Search term - "Dust Bowl"

Encyclopedia Articles - 22 items

Dictionary -1 item

Historical Maps - 1 item

Pictures - 1 item

Videos and Animations - 1 item

Back in Time - 18 items

Special Reports - 4 items

Science: Causes of the Dust Bowl

EH.Net Encyclopedia: The Dust Bowl

NASA - Top Story - SOURCE OF 1930s 'DUST BOWL' DROUGHT IN TROPICAL

The Dust Bowl