Expert: Fraser Hamilton - 10/28/2009

Question
Dear Mr. Hamilton,
I was wondering if you could please assist me in finding information on Geology and its impact on habitat types/forestry and soil relationships. Specifically I am looking for this information as it relates to WI. However, I feel that any basic info on the topic of land-type associations will assist me greatly.
Thank you kindly for your time,

~ Brianna
ps- it is for an article I have been assigned for the non-profit I work at

Answer
Brianna:
Sorry for taking so long to get back to you.  Hopefully, it is not too late.  Geology is pretty fundamental to soil types/habitats/etc.  Some geologists have the ability, with a basic understanding of the regional geology, to map local rock types based solely on the plants they observe at the surface.  In WI, the presence of different geomorphic features especially left by glaciers, will control a lot of what you see at the surface.  I would seek out some text on the geography of Wisconsin and the geology of Wisconsin.  Also, pick some particular county and get the USCS Soil Survey for that county.  It will contain most of the information you are looking for.

Let me know if you need any more help.

Good luck.

Fraser