Pedology

The parent rock, laid down over geological eras, determined the soil found in the Sainte-Anne-de-Bellevue sector today. These soils result from the combined effects of climate, vegetation, micro-organisms and drainage on the top metre of original deposits (parent rock). These effects determine the soil groups, which vary according to dominant local factors. Over time, this soil formation process develops layers or boundaries that are different from the original deposit. By studying this soil profile, we can find out about the conditions that led to its formation and assess the actual soil as a plant substrate.

Most of this site has been disturbed. As a result, the soils have not developed in an organized structure and it is virtually impossible to find an original profile. However, in the zones where the surface has remained undisturbed, or almost undisturbed, we find mature soil of the St. Bernard sequence. Soils in the St. Bernard sequence consist of 7% to 23% gravel, 40% sand, 30% to 35% silt and 19% to 25% clay.