Spatial constraints on anthropogenic soil formation in Orkney

Citation

Simpson I (1994) Spatial constraints on anthropogenic soil formation in Orkney. Scottish Geographical Magazine, 110 (2), pp. 100-104. https://doi.org/10.1080/00369229418736914

Abstract
Anthropogenic soils dating from the mid Norse period in Orkney are restricted in their spatial extent to West Mainland and Stronsay. At a regional scale, explanation of this distinctive distribution is found in the relationship between anthropogenic soils and the limited availability of seaweed resources to fertilise arable land. In the absence of such resources, plaggen manuring was the principal means of maintaining the soil fertility of arable areas. At a local scale anthropogenic soil distribution is related to township skat value. This can be used to indicate the relationship between anthropogenic soils, tunmal land and population levels.

Keywords
Orkney; Anthropogenic soils; Spatial distribution

Journal
Scottish Geographical Magazine: Volume 110, Issue 2

People

Professor Ian Simpson

Professor, Biological and Environmental Sciences