Lithosequence in Mountainair, NM

 

Matthew Milligan, an undergraduate researcher, and I are currently analyzing soil properties of a soil lithosequence located in central New Mexico.  Three minor ridges are located within a few miles of each other, each containing a very different parent material.  We are currently working to evaluate the influence of the very different particle size distribution in these soils on carbon concentration. 

 

Metamorphic outcrop consisting mostly of schist

Outcrop of limestone

Outcrop of iron-rich shale

 

Matt at the end of digging the soil pits at each of the above sites.