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Variability of a Fragiochrept with Windthrow Microtopography in North Central Wisconsin
Author(s) -
Habecker M. A.,
McSweeney K.,
Meyers N. L.
Publication year - 1990
Publication title -
soil science society of america journal
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 0.836
H-Index - 168
eISSN - 1435-0661
pISSN - 0361-5995
DOI - 10.2136/sssaj1990.03615995005400020032x
Subject(s) - geology , silt , bedrock , windthrow , aeolian processes , loam , hydrology (agriculture) , geomorphology , soil water , soil science , geotechnical engineering , geography , forestry
The variability of an Aquic Fragiochrept in Taylor County, Wisconsin, was studied on 5‐ by 10‐m grid points at two sites (100 by 70 m) that have windthrow microtopography. The effect of the general slope of each research site was accounted for in the analysis of the windthrow microtopography. The soils were developed in a silt loam eolian deposit over a dense sediment‐flow deposit, which was underlain by dense basal till. The surface microtopography and depth to the fragipan and mottling were measured at each grid point. The thickness of the A, E, and B horizons were measured where they were present. Old logging roads and wet depressions not associated with knolls were also recorded. The depth of the fragipan was significantly greater on knolls than on cradles and areas undisturbed by windthrows. The fragipan was found at a significantly shallower depth on old logging roads, wet depression areas, and cradles when compared with the areas not affected by these features. The thickness of the A horizon and the presence of an E or B horizon were not related to the microtopography of the site. The presence of and depth to mottling appeared to be related to the microtopography, but this trend was not statistically significant. The western site had 34.5% of its surface area disturbed by windthrow. It supported a maple‐waterleaf ( Acer‐Hydrophyllum ) habitat type, which is considered optimal for northern hardwoods in the county, but it may have excessive moisture problems. The eastern site had 16% of its surface area disturbed by windthrow and supported a maple hemlock‐false lily of the valley ( Acer‐Tsuga‐Maianthemum ) habitat type. A set of microtopographic modifiers is proposed that could be used to more appropriately distinguish among map units in wind‐throw‐affected areas. The recognition and incorporation of information on microtopography is considered essential for refining the specificity and utility of soils information for forest‐management interpretations.