Methods for determining soil water repellency on field‐moist samples

Abstract

In this paper we describe a simple and quick method for determining the presence of water repellency in a soil by using a small core sampler (1.5 cm in diameter, 25 cm long) and applying the water drop penetration time (WDPT) test at different depths on the sandy soil cores. Obtained results provide spatial distribution patterns of water repellency in a soil profile, demonstrating seasonal changes in repellency. An advantage of the method is that the soil is not disturbed by the sampling. For assessment of the persistence of water repellency in strongly to extremely water repellent soils, and for determination of the critical soil water contents, the WDPT test and volumetric water content determinations should preferably be performed in the laboratory.