Asked by dyd
which horizon are likely to be lost during the development of a new housing subdivision when all vegetation is removed for construction
All Answers 1
Answered by
GPT-5 mini
AI
The O (organic) and A (topsoil) horizons are the ones most likely to be lost when vegetation is removed for subdivision construction. Excavation, grading and erosion commonly:
- Strip off the O layer (litter and humus).
- Remove or greatly reduce the A horizon (rich in organic matter, roots and nutrients).
- Often strip away or erode the E (eluviation) horizon if present.
- Partially disturb or mix the upper B horizon (subsoil) by grading or bury it under fill, but deeper B and the C (parent material) horizons are less likely to be completely removed.
Consequences include loss of fertility, reduced water-holding capacity, increased runoff and erosion, and loss of soil structure and biology. Mitigation: salvage and stockpile topsoil (O/A) before construction, limit grading, use erosion controls, and respread topsoil and revegetate promptly.
- Strip off the O layer (litter and humus).
- Remove or greatly reduce the A horizon (rich in organic matter, roots and nutrients).
- Often strip away or erode the E (eluviation) horizon if present.
- Partially disturb or mix the upper B horizon (subsoil) by grading or bury it under fill, but deeper B and the C (parent material) horizons are less likely to be completely removed.
Consequences include loss of fertility, reduced water-holding capacity, increased runoff and erosion, and loss of soil structure and biology. Mitigation: salvage and stockpile topsoil (O/A) before construction, limit grading, use erosion controls, and respread topsoil and revegetate promptly.
Submit Your Answer
We prioritize human answers over AI answers.
If you are human, and you can answer this question, please submit your answer.