2008 Earthworm Chronic Testing Phase 2, Identifying Effective Soil Conditioners and Amendment Levels in Clay and Sand Reference Soil for Use in Toxicity Testing

Gladys Stephenson, Stantec Consulting Ltd.

Identified ideal characteristics of a soil conditioner and recommended testing with 4 candidate soil conditioners with preliminary testing indicated that peat was a good candidate conditioner. 

Characteristics of an ideal soil conditioner:
• Inert and non-reactive with contaminants
• No negative effects on test organisms
• Provides balance between air and water
• Resistant to physical and microbial degradation
• Neutral impact on soil fertility
• Decreases bulk density of heavy clay soils
• Increases formation of aggregates
• Minimal affect on soil pH
• Free from pests, disease and weeds
• Affordable price
• Consistent quality and availability from reliable supplier
• Efficacy must persist for duration of test

2008 Stantec_Soil Conditioners and Overview of A New Bioavailability Project
2008 Stantec_SOIL CONDITIONERS AND AMENDMENT LEVELS IN CLAY AND SAND for TOXICITY TESTING_Phase 2

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