Land Judging | Tennessee 4-H Youth Development

Tennessee 4-H Land Judging gives youth the opportunity to explore the science of soil and water conservation through hands-on learning. Participants learn how to evaluate the land’s physical characteristics, such as texture, slope, drainage, and erosion. These skills help them make informed decisions about land use, crop production, and environmental protection. By learning to judge the potential and limitations of different soils, youth gain valuable insight into how land management affects agriculture, construction, and natural resources.

Land Judging Guide

About the Contest

The top four senior teams from each region will advance to the state contest. Please check your regional calendar for the exact date and location. 4-H members in grades 6–12 as of January 1 of the current year.

Teams consist of three or four members.
The top three individual scores are combined for the team total.
Each member works independently

During the contest, at least four pits or sites will be evaluated. Members will only be allowed to use a pencil, a knife, and a scorecard during the judging contest. Water bottles will be provided at the sites. During the contest, at least four pits or sites will be evaluated. Members will only be allowed to use a pencil, a knife, and a scorecard during the judging contest. Water bottles will be provided at the sites.

The State Land Judging Contest is traditionally held in October or November each year. The contest location rotates across the state to provide variety in soil types and give every county an opportunity to compete closer to home.

The winner and runner-up will represent Tennessee at the National Land, Pasture, and Range Judging Contest in Oklahoma. Each team will receive $400 to cover expenses to the national event, or forfeit the award money. In the event of a forfeit, the award money will go to the next-highest-scoring team. Plaques will be awarded to the state winner and runner-up teams. These plaques will remain with the team even though the team does not participate in the national event.