A field investigation into soil catenas
in the Garraf Natural Park where the underlying rock type is limestone and where
terra rossa soils predominate on east and south facing slopes.
Comparisons are made of catenas on a variety of slopes.
Aims include an understanding of the processes that operate within a soil that
lead to its development.
Human activity in the area has been dependent on soil quality and terracing
has been attempted to improve the soil quality.
Hypotheses tested include:
• Soil depth will decrease as gradient
increases.
• Soil moisture will decrease as gradient
increases.
• Soil acidity will be highest where gradient
is lowest and leaching predominates. Terra rossa soils will be found in these
locations.
• Human activity is influenced by soil
quality.
• Humans have attempted to improve the soil
quality or prevent its further deterioration.
