CHEMICAL, PHYSICAL, AND LAND-USE INVESTIGATIONS OF ORGANIC TERRAIN

Abstract

Chemical and physical properties of selected organic soil samples were studied in relation to the chemical status of the associated ground water. Soil analyses included standard chemical analyses, fibre content, bulk density, particle density, hydraulic conductivity and water retention properties. In situ water chemical analysis included temperature, conductivity, dissolved oxygen and pH. Laboratory measurements of dissolved Ca, Mg, N, K, Si, NO3, F and Cl are also reported. The results are interpreted with reference to the surface expression and overall terrain morphology of the sampling area resulting in the formation of different peat types and associated vegetation. Physical and chemical data indicate a relationship between degree of decomposition and magnitude of various parameters. The distinction between bog and fen areas in terms of the level of dissolved electrolytes permits the prediction of the nature of the material comprising the organic soil. The distinctive properties of organic soils are discussed in terms of some use constraints imposed by the nature of the material in the context of afforestation of this terrain type.