Reduction of the total pore space in a soil. Results in a soil that retains less water and resists root penetration. Soils with high clay content are more easily compacted than sandy soils.
The reduction of soil volume. For instance, the weight of heavy equipment on soils can compact the soil and thereby change it in some ways, such as in its ability to absorb water. Compacted soil is a major problem, taking thousands of acres permanently out of wildlife habitat. Trees will not grow in compacted soil.
Compression of the soil which results in reduced soil pore space (the spaces between soil particles), decreased movement of water and air into and within the soil, decreased soil water storage, and increased surface runoff and erosion.
Compaction from foot traffic, construction or other activities crushes small roots and makes soil impervious to invasion by new roots.
pressing of soil that removes pores, eliminating water- and air-holding capacity.
The loss of pore space due to equipment and animal traffic. Compaction makes it difficult for water, air and roots to move through the soil.
Compression of the soil resulting in a reduction of the total pore space, especially the macropores.
Soil compaction is a problem of fragile soils, particularly in Australia, through the use of heavy machinery and the hard hoofed mammals, fragile soils become compacted, losing aeration and becoming more resistant to absorbing rainfall, thus increasing runoff and gullying erosion.