Scientists call the region between the soil surface and the groundwater table the vadose zone. It also is often called the unsaturated zone. This zone comprises soil and underlying sediments or bedrock that lie above the groundwater table. The vadose zone contains “the living skin” of our planet, that is, the outermost layer of Earth … Continue reading What is the Vadose Zone?
Tag: groundwater
Why do mudslides occur and how do they relate to soil?
As explained in the last Soils Matter post, in order to have a strong foundation for a house or a building, the soil must also be stable and strong. A mudslide (or landslide) consists of mud and other earth materials that fall down a slope, usually after a period of heavy rain. When buildings balance … Continue reading Why do mudslides occur and how do they relate to soil?
Do rain gardens really save a city money?
As explained in the last Soils Matter blog post, cities are using green infrastructure techniques like rain gardens and green roofs. They help reduce the amount of water going into the storm water management system under our cities. Cities built storm water management systems to manage rainfall and snowmelt, carrying the water away from the … Continue reading Do rain gardens really save a city money?
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