Soil formation takes a very long time. For example, in areas such as Canada that were completely covered by glaciers, soil formation started as soon as glaciers retreated. The graphics below illustrate evolution (progression) of landscapes during the past 25,000 years. At the peak of the last glaciation, about 25,000 years ago, the land was covered by ice. Glaciers retreated around 10,000 years ago and revealed a barren landscape blanketed by glacial deposits and melt-water. In the present day, glacial deposits are covered by vegetation.
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Present Day
10,000 Years Ago
25,000 Years Ago