Publication Date:
1973-02-01
Description:
The effects of pipeline installation on soil productivity were studied on medium-textured Chernozemic and Solonetzic soils in southeastern Saskatchewan. Chemical and physical soil properties and wheat yields were measured for the undisturbed field, the trench, and the area adjacent to the trench used for soil storage during pipeline installation (the claybank). In general, CuSO4-extractable NO3-N, NaHCO3-extractable P, and NH4OAc-extractable K were similar for the top 15 cm of the undisturbed field, the trench, and the claybank. Significant amounts of topsoil had been incorporated below the 30-cm depth in the trench as indicated by increased levels of NO3-N, P, and K. Where pipelines had been installed in soils that had developed on saline parent materials, the salt concentration and pH in the top of the trench were increased, especially for recently installed pipelines. Trenching neither harmed nor improved the physical properties of Chernozemic soils. It improved permeability and aeration of the Bnt horizons of Solonetzic soils and decreased their density. Wheat yields on the claybank were not significantly different from those of the undisturbed field. On Chernozemic soils, trenching did not affect yields except for one soil on which consistent yield increases were obtained. On Solonetzic soils, yields on the trench were better than on the undisturbed field, especially for older pipelines.
Print ISSN:
0008-4271
Electronic ISSN:
1918-1841
Topics:
Geosciences
,
Agriculture, Forestry, Horticulture, Fishery, Domestic Science, Nutrition
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