The great majority of my soil science work involves the determination of seasonal high water tables (SHWT), which is increasingly required by various jurisdictions in Virginia for the approval of stormwater management BMPs designed to infiltrate, and also to determined hydrostatic pressure of the water table on foundation slabs and subsurface installations (e.g. parking garages). For example, the Loudoun County Facilities Standard Manual, Chapter 5.225, Part B, Section 7a, subsection ii states unequivocally:
"Site-specific evaluation of the redoximorphic features within the soil profile by a Virginia Licensed Soil Scientist (C.P.S.S), Certified Professional Geologist (C.P.G.), Professional Wetland Delineator (PWD), or Licensed Professional Engineer (P.E.) who has completed a soil morphology training class offered through Northern Virginia Soil and Water Conservation District (NVSWCD) or equivalent as determined by the Director."

Similar regulations exist now in Fairfax and Prince William counties.

The LPSS assures both the stakeholders and the regulators that the highest level of skill and experience is being invoked in determining the SHWT, and its impact on proposed installations.

It's also important to remember that with the exception of the professional engineering license (PE), returning soil science to a certification removes the requirements for continuing education, an important aspect of maintaining professional excellence.

In summary, I strongly oppose downgrading the LPSS to the CPSS.