An investigation into the soil properties of a restored former industrial site

Abstract

Yarrow Valley Country Park was a heavily industrialised area including several coal mines,
bleach works, dying and printing factories. It is now a country park made up of a mosaic of
different habitats and vegetation species, such as hedgerows, grasslands, ancient and semiancient
woodlands. It is an important wildlife corridor in the area.
An investigation was carried out into the soil properties of four of the former industrial areas and
two non-industrial areas as there had been no similar investigations carried out in the area. Soil
samples were collected and field and laboratory analysis undertaken. Earthworms were also
collected on the basis of being bio-indicators of soil conditions, however, similar studies had not
been carried out in the park previously. A vegetation survey was carried out to record the type
and coverage. Extensive pre-field study research into the history of the area particularly the
reclamation period was also undertaken.
A total of 11 species of earthworm were found representing all three ecological groups. 7
species were identified in sites A, C and D, 4 in site B and 4 in site E. Numbers do not include
non-clitellate individuals that could not be accurately identified.
Soil properties varied greatly between sites, nitrogen remained low in all sites including the
natural non-industrial sites. pH was low in all sites except site A. Moisture levels varied,
however, it was a wet season and conditions in most sites were naturally damp. Organic matter
content was very high in sites B and C, however, this could be attributed to the material in the
substrate, i.e., coal spoil.