Hi, Sarah,

I'd make sure to get certified straw (weed-free, etc.) from a reputable dealer.  As for the color of dirt, I'd call East Carolina University (or one closer to where you are) and ask for the archaeology department.  If they have someone on staff who's done work archaeologically in your area, they'll have the Munsell colors available so you can match it.  It's the easiest and most effective way of matching dirt color (other than gathering handfulls from different places).  :-)

Hope it works out for you!
Take Care,
Amy.


----- Original Message -----
From: Sarah Gulick <[log in to unmask]>
Date: Friday, September 14, 2007 8:12 am
Subject: [MUSEUM-L] Straw and dirt
To: [log in to unmask]

> Hello all!
> 
> We are about to add straw and dirt to the floors of two of our 
> museum  
> dioramas. Is there anything we should be aware of - such as pest 
> or  
> bug issues?
> 
> Is there a source for dirt/straw that would in some way be better  
> then "regular" dirt and straw?
> 
> Also, can anyone confirm the color of the dirt in a Deep South 
> cotton  
> field?
> 
> Any suggestions, warnings, or encouragement would be much appreciated!
> 
> Thanks!
> Sarah
> 
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