Hi EcoLog: I'm looking for advice on what type of corer would be best for root sampling in the boreal forest. The site is near Fort Simpson, NWT (61°18'N, 121°18'W) at the southern edge of the Taiga Plains and is characterized by discontinuous permafrost with a dynamic mosaic of forests and wetlands. Some hydrologists that work at the site suggested that sharpened plastic PVC pipe cuts through the spongy peat easily, but I'm worried plastic wouldn't cut roots that well. In AB prairie sites I've used a variety of commercial corers, but I often just fall back on lengths of sharpened steel pipe and a sledge hammer. However, these prairie soils are quite hard, and I’m worried a heavy corer might just compress the peat. Anyway, any thoughts or experiences would be appreciated.
Thanks, Gord McNickle
