MAPPING, DESCRIPTION AND CORRELATION OF SOIL AND SEDIMENT IN LAFAYETTE COUNTY, MISSISSIPPI, USA

This study aims to provide a comprehensive analysis of the soils and sediment in Lafayette County, Mississippi, leveraging advanced geospatial techniques and extensive fieldwork to understand the distribution, properties, and correlations of soil and sediment types within the region. The primary objectives are to map the spatial arrangement of soils and sediments, describe their physical, chemical, and mineralogical properties, and investigate the relationships between different soil and sediment types. To achieve these objectives, we employed Geographic Information System (GIS) software and remote sensing technologies, incorporating satellite imagery and aerial photographs to collect existing geological and topographical data. Field surveys were conducted to validate and supplement remote sensing data, with ground truthing efforts refining the accuracy of the maps by accounting for local soil and sediment variations. For the descriptive component, extensive soil sampling was carried out via coring across the county. Laboratory analyses includes particle size distribution, soil organic matter content, and mineral composition determination. Soils were categorized using the USDA soil taxonomy, and X-ray diffraction and spectrometry were employed for detailed mineralogical analysis. Historical geological data and literature were explored to understand the regional geological history influencing soil and sediment distribution. The topsoil is primarily composed of sand-sized quartz grains, along with plant root remnants. The sediment is dominated by quartz, with occasional muscovite fragments below the top soil. At a depth of ~90’-108’, the sediment is clay-dominated.

Although this study is still in its preliminary stages, anticipated outcomes include the development of detailed and accurate soil and sediment maps of Lafayette County, which will enhance understanding and facilitate effective land use planning. Comprehensive descriptions of physical, chemical, and mineralogical properties will contribute to the fields of soil science and environmental geology. By investigating the relationships between different soil and sediment types, we aim to reveal patterns and underlying geological factors that have shaped the county's landscapes.