Recovery of some surface soil properties of ecological interest after sheep grazing in a semi‐arid woodland

Abstract

Abstract Solodic soils within a semi‐arid poplar box (Eucalyptus populnea) woodland at Wycanna, in southern Queensland, have been subjected to impacts from sheep and cattle grazing for at least 100 years. The micromorphology of the surface of two soils, a gradational texture profile (Gn 3.13, Paleustalf) and a duplex profile (Db 1.23, Paleustalf) showed that compaction had occurred. Recovery of the soil surfaces following removal of animal grazing was measured in terms of porosity, presence of illuvial layers, surface soil strength, some chemical properties and water infiltration rates. The grazing impact was greatest on the Gn 3.13 soil and visual signs of the grazing impact were still evident 16 years following sheep removal. Reduced soil organic matter and increased surface soil hardness as a result of grazing, rather than surface crusting or changes in water infiltration rates are suggested as the mechanisms controlling the observed increases in woody plant populations in these semi‐arid woodlands.