Organic - Soils of Saskatchewan

Organic

Water-saturated conditions in forested regions of Saskatchewan commonly lead to the formation of layers of organic matter or peat. Where the high organic content (i.e., > 17% organic carbon) layer is greater than 60-cm thick (if fibrous) or 40-cm thick (if it is more decomposed), the soils are classified into the Organic Order. In Saskatchewan Organic soils occur in two main types of peatlands. Fens are dominated by sedges and brown mosses, and the water is high in dissolved base ions (e.g. calcium, magnesium); bogs are dominated by sphagnum and woody peat and the water has a low base content.

Great Groups of the Organic Order

The three Great Groups of the Organic Order found in Saskatchewan are based on the degree of decomposition of the middle tier (i.e., from 40 to 120 cm thickness of the peat). The degree of decomposition can be assessed in the field using the Van Post Scale of Decomposition (see material of horizonation). If the thickness of peat is less than these limits the soil is considered a Peaty Phase of the Gleysolic Order.

Fibrisol Great Group:

The middle tier is dominated by organic material which is recognizable and retains its fibrous material.

Humisol Great Group:

The middle tier is in a more advanced stage of decomposition and does not retain its fibrous material; commonly the material would squeeze through your fingers when squeezed.

Mesisol Great Group:

The material in the middle layer is in an intermediate stage of decomposition between fibric and humic.

Distribution of Organic soils in Saskatchewan