V.—Studies on the Soils developed on Basic Igneous Rocks in Central Aberdeenshire

Abstract

Soils developed on basic igneous rocks, or their associated glacial drifts, are of fairly common occurrence in North-East Scotland and occupy a considerable area in Aberdeenshire. So far, only isolated studies with some specific object in view have been made of such soils, and a few descriptions with analyses have been published (Mitchell, 1936; Muir and Fraser, 1940; Whelan, 1939; Ogg, 1935). Interesting and important facts have been brought out in these investigations, but, apart from the work of Muir, no attempt has been made to study the distribution and field relations of the soils, and arable soils are mentioned only incidentally by Muir. In the present study an account is given of the classification and distribution of the various soil types occurring in the Kennethmont, Insch, Old Meldrum district of Aberdeenshire, an area which is highly farmed and which has long had a high reputation for its fertility and productivity. A soil map is given at the end of this study.