Semester
Fall
Date of Graduation
2003
Document Type
Thesis
Degree Type
MS
College
Davis College of Agriculture, Natural Resources and Design
Department
Horticulture
Committee Chair
John C. Sencindiver.
Abstract
This study evaluated soils of the Otter Creek Wilderness in the Monongahela National Forest. Thirteen sites were sampled and analyzed according to landscape position: three terrace soils (T), four ridgetop soils (R), three sideslope soils with argillic horizons (SSA), and three sideslope soils with cambic horizons (SSC). At each site, one pedon was described and sampled, and biomass data were collected. Standard chemical and physical properties, clay mineralogy, extractable sulfate and sulfated adsorption capacity were analyzed. The SSA soils had the highest pH, the most diverse vegetation, and the highest base saturation. These soils had a low risk for acid toxicity to fine roots and mychorrizal fungi. Also, these soils has the highest Ca:Al ratio. In addition, SSA soils had the greatest capacity to adsorb additional sulfate. The most adverse soil conditions were found on the SSC and T sites, with R soils exhibiting moderate conditions.
Recommended Citation
Schnably, Jamie, "Soil characterization, classification, and biomass accumulation in the Otter Creek Wilderness" (2003). Graduate Theses, Dissertations, and Problem Reports. 1800.
https://researchrepository.wvu.edu/etd/1800