Characteristics of Eolian Influenced Soils in Connecticut: I. Physical Properties

Abstract

AbstractField and laboratory studies were made on soils strongly influenced by loess in the Central Lowland of Connecticut. Laboratory samples were obtained from 10 profiles located on a grid sampling system in an area east of the Connecticut River. Depth of the loess mantle had an important influence on the particle size composition of the profiles. The greater amounts of coarse particles in the shallower profiles are believed to be due to mixing with the underlying unconformable materials, probably through frost action and tree throw. An increase in coarse particles from the underlying material in the profile results in reductions in water‐holding capacity, capillary pore volume and penetrability, and increases in bulk density and non‐capillary pore volume, but with only a small change in permeability.