A study of the influence of aspect on some soil properties of a Kaikoura steepland soil under a tussock grassland : A dissertation submitted in partial fulfilment of the requirements for the degree of Bachelor of Agricultural Science (Honours) in the University of Canterbury [Lincoln College]

Abstract

Steepland soils tend to show more variability than soils on rolling or flat land. One of the factors responsible for some of the variation within these soils is the micro­climatic changes that occur between different aspects of a hill.

North - and south - facing slopes offer excellent situations in which to study the role of topography in relation to micro­climate, vegetation and soil. Numerous studies have shown that the microclimates of such slopes differ widely and that equally great vegetational differences are related to these habitat variations. however, little work has been done in New Zealand to determine the effects of aspect on soil properties.

Archer (1969, 1971) studied microclimatic changes between a north-westerly facing, sunny slope and a south-easterly fac­ing, shady slope at 4,100 feet in the Twin Stream catchment of Glentanner Station. He was able to show that quite marked dif­ferences in the temperature and moisture regimes exist between the aspects. Some of the effects of aspect on the distribution of soils and vegetation in the area were also noted.

As a follow-up to this work, a more detailed look at the influence of aspect on a few selected soil properties might prove beneficial to an understanding of some of the reasons for the wide variations of steepland soils.

The aim of this investigation was thus, to attempt to show differences in some soil properties which could be related to changes of aspect in a steepland, subalpine environment under a tussock grassland situation.