Soils

Soils develop under differing parent materials, drainage conditions, topography, biological activity, climate, and site history. Grading, filling, compaction, excavation, erosion, and changes in water conditions can create additional differences. A soils expert can compare profiles, classifications, laboratory results, and historical information to determine whether apparent variations are expected or indicate that the soil has been altered.

Field descriptions, soil horizons, texture, structure, inclusions, density, organic content, photographs, grading records, historical plans, and laboratory results can provide evidence of disturbance or imported material. Naturally developed soils commonly exhibit identifiable horizons, while grading or placement can disrupt those relationships. The conclusion should come from the overall profile and site history rather than any single visual characteristic.

Useful materials may include original sampling records, boring and test-pit logs, laboratory reports, soil survey information, chain-of-custody documents, site photographs, grading and earthwork records, compaction data, environmental sampling results, construction documents, and records showing prior site conditions. Preserving sample locations, depths, test methods, and original laboratory data is especially useful when the parties disagree about whether the tested material accurately represents the disputed area.