| The objectives of the study were to determine the effects of pipeline construction on the physical and chemical properties of soils and determine the topsoil reclamation suitability of the A horizon of these soils in the Pincher Creek-Crowsnest Pass area, southwestern Alberta. Both disturbed and undisturbed sites were sampled along the pipeline right-of-way. Physical properties of all soil samples were recorded and chemical analyses of all soils sampled included pH, EC, moisture content, organic matter content, CaCO;Pipeline construction activities altered all of the chemical properties in most of the disturbed sites. The physical properties that were altered in some of the disturbed sites were structure, consistency, coarse fragments and surface stoniness. The topsoil reclamation suitability of the soils was rated as being fair, meaning there are moderate soil limitations that affect the use of the area but can be overcome by proper planning and management. |
