Some Effects of Oil on the Physical and Chemical Characteristics of Wet Tundra Soils

Abstract

Crude hydrocarbons were added to the surface of wet tundra soils at Barrow, Alaska at volumes of 5 and 12 l/square metre. Physical and chemical effects in the soil were followed for three years. Soils treated with 5 l/square metre had their chemical and physical properties little altered. Those treated with 12 l/square metre recorded an increase in seasonal thaw, an increase in organic carbon and an increase in available phosphorus. Soil pH shifted toward neutrality. Decreases occurred in water infiltration rate and in plant available cations (Ca, Mg, K). Soil moisture, bulk density, shrinkage percent and total sulphur content appeared unaffected.