Soil and topographic features affect plant growth on a natural gas pipeline right-of-way in northeastern British Columbia

Natural gas reserves in northeastern British Columbia (B.C.) are being extracted, yet the effects to soils and plants from industrial disturbance in the region are poorly understood. This study examined soil and topographic factors that affect plant establishment and growth on a reclaimed natural gas pipeline. The study area was located approximately 70 km southeast of Tumbler Ridge, B.C. Field sampling took place between spring 2012 and summer 2013. Soil properties were examined to understand growing conditions at the site, natural regeneration was observed to understand current species diversity, and growth parameters were taken for lodgepole pine and shrubby cinquefoil. Soil nutrients were higher in wetland blocks than upland blocks, and were associated with greater species diversity. Plant growth was greatest in north-facing blocks, however biomass was greatest in crest blocks. Reliance on natural revegetation can delay site recovery, and reclaiming a site requires site-specific plant species in northeastern B.C. --Leaf ii.