Distribution of 137Cs in surface soils as affected by forest clear-cutting

The distribution of 137Cs was studied in podzol soil profiles from a 5 year old forest clear-cut area and an adjacent mature spruce forest in central Norway in order to assess the effects of clear-cutting on the distribution and mobility of radiocaesium in surface soils. A distinctly higher radiocaesium activity observed in the humus layer from the clear-cut compared to the forest area strongly indicates an increase in organic surface soil 137Cs activity within the first 5 years following forest clear-cutting. Such an increase, previously observed for Ca, Mg, Mn and Zn, is explained by increased supply of radiocaesium from decomposing logging residue, such as lichens and needles. Roughly 25% of the activity leached from decomposing residue had been transported into the A-E layer 5 years after clear-cutting. High 137Cs activity in the eluvial (E) horizon and a distinct decrease in deeper horizons indicates a certain leaching of 137Cs from the humus layer into the E horizon, which may act as an effective barrier against further leaching of radiocaesium.