Description of the test area and reference sampling at Dornach

Area of Science:

• Environmental Science
• Soil Science
• Geochemistry

Background:

• The study site in Dornach, Switzerland, is characterized by a temperate climate and is situated on the Jura mountain foothills.
• The area exhibits airborne pollution from a non-ferrous metal recycling plant, influencing soil composition.
• Geological features include Jurassic limestone and loess loam, with land use transitioning from forest to orchards and arable land.

Purpose of the Study:

• To conduct a comparative evaluation of European methods for soil sampling and sample preparation (CEEM Soil project).
• To assess the effectiveness of different sampling strategies in characterizing polluted soils.
• To establish reference soil samples for method validation.

Main Methods:

• A 0.61 ha test area was surveyed, distinguishing four soil mapping units.
• Reference sampling involved a 190m x 20-40m transect using four distinct sampling devices.
• Methods included composite sampling (stratified, horizon-based), soil profile sampling, and soil cores with interval sampling, totaling 301 reference samples.

Main Results:

• Detailed soil survey identified four distinct soil mapping units within the test area.
• Multiple sampling strategies were employed, including composite, horizon-based, and core sampling.
• A total of 301 reference soil samples were collected for comparative analysis.

Conclusions:

• The study successfully established a comprehensive dataset of reference soil samples using diverse methods.
• The collected samples will facilitate the comparative evaluation of European soil sampling and preparation techniques.
• Findings contribute to standardized soil analysis protocols in potentially polluted environments.