The formation of deep topsoils in Orkney

Auteurs :
DAVIDSON, D. A.
SIMPSON, I. A.

Description :
The Soil Survey for Scotland in their mapping of the soils in Orkney, identified a deep top phase of the Bilbster Series. An anthropogenic origin to this soil is proposed and the present study is designed to investigate the particular processes of formation which have led to the increase in soil depth. Results from transect and grid surveys indicate how the soil is thickest adjacent to old farms. The historical literature suggests a wide range of possible inputs from seaweed and calcareous sands to turves after they had been used as bedding for cattle. An accumulation rate of c. 1 mm/yr is proposed.


Type de document :
Article de périodique

Source :
Earth surface processes and landforms London, 1984, vol. 9, n°. 1, p. 75-81, Références bibliographiques : 19 réf.

Date :
1984