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Soil Quality and Plant Diversity of a Discontinued Golf Course

Leonard, Chloe
http://rave.ohiolink.edu/etdc/view?acc_num=wuhonors1691057718487056

Abstract Details

2023, Bachelor of Science, Wittenberg University, Biology.
This study investigates the soil quality and plant diversity of a discontinued golf course in Springfield, Ohio, with the aim of assessing its potential for restoration. Led by the National Trail Parks & Recreation District, the restoration plans for Snyder Park include the establishment of wet meadows, prairies, and woodlands, which can thrive in the natural hydric soils of the former golf course. In this study, baseline soil data was collected using GIS and GPS technologies, analyzing soil texture, carbon content, nitrate nitrogen, phosphorous, potassium, replaceable calcium, humus, and pH. Plant diversity was evaluated through random sampling of quadrats. Initial observations revealed patches dominated by specific plant species, and a comparison of soil and plant characteristics across elevations was conducted. The golf course mainly consisted of the Westland soil series, which supports water retention. However, deficiencies in humus and low levels of potassium and nitrate nitrogen pose challenges for restoration. Limited native plant species adapted to moist conditions were observed, suggesting ongoing recovery from intensive land management. To sustain a natural wetland or floodplain ecosystem, restoration efforts should focus on introducing native wetland species and providing nutrient inputs, mainly nitrogen and potassium. The Snyder Park golf course holds potential for restoration, but additional measures are necessary for a successful habitat transition.
John Ritter (Advisor)
Nona Moskowitz (Committee Member)
Matthew Collier (Committee Member)
40 p.
Ecology; Environmental Science; Environmental Studies; Horticulture; Soil Sciences
soil quality; plant biodiversity; golf course restoration; native species; invasive species; wetlands

Recommended Citations

Citations

  • Leonard, C. (2023). Soil Quality and Plant Diversity of a Discontinued Golf Course [Undergraduate thesis, Wittenberg University]. OhioLINK Electronic Theses and Dissertations Center. http://rave.ohiolink.edu/etdc/view?acc_num=wuhonors1691057718487056

    APA Style (7th edition)

  • Leonard, Chloe. Soil Quality and Plant Diversity of a Discontinued Golf Course . 2023. Wittenberg University, Undergraduate thesis. OhioLINK Electronic Theses and Dissertations Center, http://rave.ohiolink.edu/etdc/view?acc_num=wuhonors1691057718487056.

    MLA Style (8th edition)

  • Leonard, Chloe. "Soil Quality and Plant Diversity of a Discontinued Golf Course ." Undergraduate thesis, Wittenberg University, 2023. http://rave.ohiolink.edu/etdc/view?acc_num=wuhonors1691057718487056

    Chicago Manual of Style (17th edition)

wuhonors1691057718487056
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© 2023, all rights reserved.
This open access ETD is published by Wittenberg University Honors Theses and OhioLINK.