Effects of pipeline construction on Chernozemic and Solonetzic A and B horizons in central Alberta

Abstract

The effects of pipeline construction on agricultural soil quality ratings were evaluated for the A and B horizons of Orthic Dark Brown Chernozem and Dark Brown Solonetz soils at three sites in Central Alberta 1 week after construction. For both soils and land uses, soil effects due to construction were reflected in the Ap horizon of the trench and spoil side by changes in pH, electrical conductivity, soluble salts and bulk density. Even with the increases in the soil properties monitored, the results indicated that regardless of soil type or land use, pipeline construction did not significantly affect the agricultural soil quality of the A and B horizons. -from Author