Characteristics of soil profiles affected by smelting of nickel and copper at Coniston,Ontario, Canada

Soil profiles were examined, described and sampled by horizons in various geomorphic positions along a transect originating at the Coniston smelter and extending in a southeasterly direction for approximately 12 km. The samples were then analyzed to determine particle-size distribution, pH, organic carbon and five heavy metals.Within the study area, elevated levels of nickel, copper and iron were found with maximum total concentrations of 1.2, 0.97 and 20.0%, respectively. Manganese and zinc did not occur in above-normal concentrations. The pH values of the soils were depressed with levels as low as 2.4.Near the smelter, erosion from soils on slopes has transferred materials into lower lying areas, thereby rearranging the areal distribution of nickel, copper and iron. Although the surface soil horizons along the entire transect have above-normal concentrations of these elements, only within the eroded area is there marked variability in their vertical distribution.