USING GEOGRAPHIC INFORMATION SYSTEMS TO LINK SOIL CHARACTERISTICS TO VARIATIONS IN TOPOGRAPHY AND VEGETATION; A CASE STUDY OF THE UNIVERSITY OF MICHIGAN-DEARBORN NATURAL AREA

High resolution soil surveys provide a tool to examine relationships and correlations between soil type, vegetation type, and topography. The objectives of this study are to (1.) conduct a soil survey of the area, (2.) map variations in vegetation. (3) compare soil texture and vegetation patterns. Over 150 soil samples were collected and tested for pH, depth to the B-Horizon, and texture using standard USDA methods. Soil texture was quantified using a weighting method in order to interpolate using ArcMap. A tree survey was conducted to map the distribution of tree species in the natural area. Data generated from GIS was used to compare soil characteristics against changes in vegetation type and topography. Results indicate a relationship between soil texture and topography, such that coarse texture is found at a higher elevation. Results also show certain tree species, such as Black Cherry, correlate with soil texture. Information obtained from this study will enhance educational and outreach programs, assist management plans for the natural area, and provide insight into prevalence of native species and potential influence of invasive species.