The Intersection of River Channelization, Soil Properties, and Agriculture: A Case Study of Mud Creek in Northfield, Minnesota

In the past few centuries, humans have become significant geomorphological agents with the expansion of agricultural demands and increased land modification. This report investigates the anthropogenic channelization of Mud Creek on the Legvold farm in Northfield, Minnesota. Soil sampling and historical analysis determined the prechannelization location of Mud Creek. In order to improve agricultural tenability, farmers straightened, deepened, and moved Mud Creek approximately 100 meters to the north between 1879 and 1916. Prior to channelization, Mud Creek was likely a meandering stream with a lower gradient. Today, the channelized creek has begun eroding its banks as the stream reverts to its meandering shape. Sampling in this study was also used to understand the general soil properties of the farm. Soil characteristics are related to geomorphological agents and parent material. Additionally, this study compares the findings from soil sampling with that of the Web Soil Survey. Other features of note are the filled in glacial depressions and the decrease in soil pH southward in the study area