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Graduate Theses, Dissertations, and Problem Reports

Theses/Dissertations

2003

Soil sciences

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Soil Characterization, Classification, And Biomass Accumulation In The Otter Creek Wilderness, Jamie Schnably Dec 2003

Soil Characterization, Classification, And Biomass Accumulation In The Otter Creek Wilderness, Jamie Schnably

Graduate Theses, Dissertations, and Problem Reports

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 …


Evaluating Runoff Water Quality And Ammonia Volatilization In Three Turkey Litter Application Methods, Michael Dale Shamblin Dec 2003

Evaluating Runoff Water Quality And Ammonia Volatilization In Three Turkey Litter Application Methods, Michael Dale Shamblin

Graduate Theses, Dissertations, and Problem Reports

Poultry litter is an important nutrient source in crop production. However, the traditional practice of broadcasting poultry litter on the soil surface could result in nutrient losses in runoff as well as substantial ammonia volatilization losses, which could adversely affect both the environment and agricultural productivity. This research compared nutrient runoff (natural and simulated) losses on 1 m x 2 m plots and ammonia volatilization from different turkey litter application methods (broadcast, surface-banded, incorporated band, and control) applied in triplicate. No significant differences were observed between any of the treatments in any of the runoff constituents measured. Over three runoff …


Characterization Of Wetland Soils In The Beaver Creek Watershed, Kyle Michael Stephens May 2003

Characterization Of Wetland Soils In The Beaver Creek Watershed, Kyle Michael Stephens

Graduate Theses, Dissertations, and Problem Reports

A proposed section of Appalachian Corridor H will pass through an area of the Beaver Creek watershed in Tucker County, West Virginia previously mined for the acid-producing Upper Freeport coal. Presently, partially-reclaimed spoils from past mining activities are generating acid mine drainage and releasing sediments into streams and other water bodies. Soils of acid mine drainage impacted wetlands and non-impacted wetlands were characterized to establish baseline soil status and to gain a better understanding of the chemical and physical processes occurring in these wetlands. The results of this study will be used to assist the West Virginia Division of Highways …


Soil Compaction Caused By Timber Harvesting In Central Appalachian Hardwood Forests, Mark W. Jones May 2003

Soil Compaction Caused By Timber Harvesting In Central Appalachian Hardwood Forests, Mark W. Jones

Graduate Theses, Dissertations, and Problem Reports

Two commonly used harvesting systems in central Appalachia were examined to determine the amount of soil compaction associated with each harvest type. A manual system of chainsaw and cable skidder, along with a mechanized system consisting of feller-buncher and grapple skidder were monitored in two central Appalachian hardwood forest sites. Examinations of soil bulk density (lbs/ft 3) were made pre-harvest and post-harvest for each harvest unit. Observations were conducted along the skid roads in conjunction to distance from the landing. Sample points were also taken systematically through each harvest site. The physical condition was recorded using a nuclear density probe. …