Evaluation of Proposed Artesol Criteria in Human-Transported Soils within Schmeeckle Nature Reserve, Wisconsin
Water Resources Mary Chesnut
Soil Science and Land Management Sydney Recker
Human-altered and human-transported soils (HAHT) are increasingly common in anthropogenically modified landscapes, yet direct comparisons with adjacent non-HAHT soils remain limited within the United States. U.S. Soil Taxonomy currently recognizes twelve soil orders, but there is uncertainty regarding the placement of HAHT soils within existing taxonomy. The proposed soil order, Artesols , seeks to recognize those soils significantly modified by human activity. The proposed diagnostic criteria of Artesols are currently undergoing evaluation, and the question of whether the criteria can detect known HAHT soils is critical. To evaluate this question concerning criteria and classification, we compared in-field morphology and chemical lab data of HAHT and non-HAHT soils found in the Schmeeckle Nature Reserve in Stevens Point, Wisconsin, and assessed their alignment with proposed Artesol criteria. Using historical aerial imagery, we located two sites containing HAHT soils that were part of the same disturbance and transportation. Laboratory tests included texture analysis, heavy metal concentrations using X-ray fluorescence (XRF), pH, and electrical conductivity. Preliminary morphology suggests that the sampled HAHT soils of Schmeeckle Reserve meet the diagnostic criteria of Artesols due to the presence of more than 50 cm of human-transported materials. Lab analysis is ongoing and will be used to evaluate further classification requirements. As anthropogenic soils become more prevalent, refining their taxonomic placement is essential to ensure U.S. Soil Taxonomy remains relevant and accurate in human-dominated landscapes.
Advisors: Bryant Scharenbroch, Ph.D.
Subject Area: Soil Science
Type: Oral
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Jim and Katie Krause CNR Student Research Symposium
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