A CHRONOSEQUENCE ON THE CATAWBA RIVER NEAR CHARLOTTE, NC: INSIGHTS INTO THE GEOMORPHOLOGY AND REMEDIATION OF THIS HEAVILY INDUSTRIALIZED RIVER

Few soil chronosequence studies exist for terrace, riparian, and wetland soils near rivers of the southeastern U.S. despite the fact that such studies provide insight into environmental response to land-use change, industrialization, and urban development (e.g. Lair et al, 2009). In particular, there is little documentation of the correlation between properties known to progress with soil age and those that are of interest to environmental planners or workers (e.g. contaminant retention capacities, carbon content, etc). For this purpose, a soil chronosequence of five upaired alluvial terraces of the Catawba River near Charlotte, NC is currently under investigation. Fifteen soil pits (three per terrace) were hand-excavated and sampled every 10-15 cm per horizon. These samples were analyzed for particle size (pipette method) and described in the field according to Birkeland Appendix A 1999. Analysis of the sediment size distribution reveals significant instances of change in river competence and capacity, possibly coinciding with large-scale events, such as climate change or increased construction and industrialization along the Catawba River. An examination of these results, in relation to the pit locations, may also provide insight to the geomorphology to this major southeastern drainage. Soil pH, total organic carbon content, and extractable iron (Fed and Feo) will also be examined, as well as Mn-adsorption. Manganese is a heavy metal recently found in groundwater exceeding NC pollutant standards by 40% (Appalachian Voices, 2009). Forthcoming results should thus illuminate soil-age-landscape relationships in the southern Piedmont, and also provide local planners with efficient information and methods towards ecologically responsible development and contribute to the efforts of local citizens and officials urging for more regulations in current pollution permits.