Determination of soil consistency using the Atterberg Limits
As can be seen from the various wet, moist and dry soil tests in Sections 8.1 to 8.3, the consistency of a soil sample changes with the amount of water present. Such changes in soil consistency may be accurately measured in the laboratory following standard procedures which determine the Atterberg Limits. These limits may then be used for judging the suitability of the soil, e.g., for the construction of small earth-dams and pond dikes. You should become familiar with the terminology related to this process, as well as with its general significance, the better to understand and discuss fish-pond design and construction with specialized technicians.