Organic and inorganic amendments affect vegetation growth on an acidic minesoil

William T. Plass

doi:10.2737/NE-RP-502

Treesearch

Organic and inorganic amendments affect vegetation growth on an acidic minesoil

Informally Refereed

Authors:

William T. Plass

Year:

1982

Type:

Research Paper

Station:

Northern Research Station

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.2737/NE-RP-502

Source:

Res. Pap. NE-502. Broomall, PA: U.S. Department of Agriculture, Forest Service, Northeastern Forest Experiment Station. 7p.

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Download (PDF 1.61 MB): https://research.fs.usda.gov/download/treesearch/15055.pdf

Abstract

Organic amendments can be included in minesoil revegetation treatments to produce high-density ground covers or increase the yield of pasture and forage crops. They may provide an alternative to the "topsoiling" requirements under current surface-mining laws and regulations. In this study, shredded hardwood bark, composted municipal waste, and a tannery waste were applied to an acidic minesoil. Supplemental inorganic amendments including fertilizer, agricultural lime, and an alkaline waste from an SO₂ scrubber system were applied alone and in combination with the organic amendments. Treatment comparisons were based on vegetation response and chemical and physical characteristics of the minesoil after treatment. Organic amendments are not required for establishing vegetation though some reduced the time required to produce an acceptable cover. Site characteristics, land use objectives, and the availability of organic materials determine the appropriate amendment for a specific site.

Keywords

Bark mulch, composted municipal waste, tannery waste, grasses, legumes

Citation

Plass, William T. 1982. Organic and inorganic amendments affect vegetation growth on an acidic minesoil. Res. Pap. NE-502. Broomall, PA: U.S. Department of Agriculture, Forest Service, Northeastern Forest Experiment Station. 7p.