Colloidality, base exchange capacity, and numbers of organisms in certain Oregon forest soil profiles were max. in the fermenting layers. Nutrient-supplying power, especially as to bases and nitrates, was found by greenhouse tests to be centered in the F and H layers. Macroorganisms, particularly earthworms, as well as microorganisms, were associated witE increased humus-N. Pennsylvania forest soil profiles showed greater degeneration, being more acid and lower in base exchange capacity.