This collection contains miscellaneous papers from the department. The earliest record is a 19th century record book of experiments about growing beets, possibly copied from another source. The entries include “Experiments with Sugar Beets” by F. F. Tanner, “Experiments with Sugar Beets” by A. T. Stevens, “Experiments with Roots to Determine the Relative Value of Sod versus Stubble, Sand versus Clay, and Clay versus Hummus Soil for Beets, Carrots, and Ruta Bagas” by Luther H. Baker, “Statement of Cost and Returns of Raising Sugar Beets per acre” by Dr. Kedzie, “Experiments with Roots to Determine the Relative Value of Sand and Clay for Sugar Beets, Ruta Bagas, and Mangel Wurzels” by Charles P. Close, and “Experiments with Roots to Determine Cost per Bushel of Growing Ruta Bagas and Mangel Wurzels” by J. S. Mitchell and H. E. Van Norman. Of note is a narrative of the events associated with the Michigan Soil Fertility Train which traveled around Michigan in 1926 collecting and testing soil samples. This narrative includes crew lists, itinerary, operation plan, letters, posters, clippings, and photographs.

There are also records regarding potato agriculture during the World War II and the post-war era (1941–1948). These include recommendations, bulletins, reports, and other records.

Also included in the collection are two historical narratives of the Soil Science Department for 1909 to 1969: one written in 1969 by Hubert M. Brown and the other published by the department in 1988.

Also in the collection is a group of photographs mainly focused on silage of different sorts and having some association with Dr. Stephen T. Dexter.

There are also materials related to Frank Spragg, including articles, research, publications and Frank Spragg memorial lecture programs and speeches.

The collection includes published (1910-1935) and unpublished (1958-1969) annual reports and two serials: Crop News Note and Turfgrass Management Newsletter.