What does the presence of boulders in soil indicate?

The presence of boulders in soil is primarily indicative of glacial till parent material. During glacial periods, large masses of ice move over the land, picking up and transporting various sediments, including substantial rock fragments and boulders. When glaciers retreat, they leave behind this debris, which can vary in size, with boulders being among the larger fragments. This glacial till can significantly impact the soil's physical characteristics, including drainage, nutrient availability, and overall fertility. The identification of boulders in a soil profile often suggests a history of glaciation in that area, making glacial till an essential consideration in soil evaluation and understanding the landscape's geological history.