I work for a company that is in the process of developing an exhibit to tell its story. Part of the story involves travel, so the contracted exhibit team wants to use real earth in one of the cases. 

One major concern is that the exhibit will be housed in a mixed-use space where food will be served on occasion. Luckily there are only very few authentic objects being exhibited, and the case with the dirt will have only duplicate photos and letters. 

I know that the earth might be a pest attractant, especially since it will come from whatever local garden shop is accessible. Besides sequestering the dirt in an incoming collections area, perhaps spreading it out and letting it sit for a few weeks before introduced it to the exhibit, what suggestions do people have for mitigating its likelihood to attract pests or retain moisture within the case?

Any suggestions or insights are welcome on or off-list. I am in the position to make suggestions to the team, but not to prohibit their plans alltogether.

Thank you,

Alexandra Trumbull


      

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