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Soil Compaction Zones as Affected by Conservation Cropping Systems¹

ABSTRACT

The effects of soil compaction on rooting depth, aeration, and effects on erosion and drainage of Houston Black clay, a monotextured Grumusol are reported.

Field samples were taken over a broad area representative of definite nonconservation and conservation cropping systems. A single field was sampled on a sequence basis to measure the changes wrought by tillage from a perennial grass to a mature cotton crop.

Compaction zones were measured by the change in bulk density and structural index as compared to normal values for virgin soils or soils in good condition. Bulk densities and structural indices were determined by the use of a nonpolar liquid.

Compaction zones were common under continuous row crop systems.

Compaction zones form rapidly as a result of poor soil management, even within a single cropping season following a 2-year period of perennial grass.

¹ Contribution from the Soil Conservation Service, U.S.D.A. Field sampling and laboratory measurements were done by the author. The cooperation of numerous Soil Conservation Service soil scientists and other technicians is gratefully acknowledged. The advice and counsel of Dr. R. M. Smith, Superintendent of the Blackland Experiment Station is greatly appreciated. Presented before Div. VI, Soil Science Society of America, Nov. 18, 1956 at Cincinnati, Ohio.

² Field Specialist-Soils, Soil Conservation Service, U.S.D.A., Temple, Texas.

Received for publication July 25, 1957. Accepted for publication October 3, 1957.