The Extent of Agricultural Field Drainage in England and Wales, 1971-80

Abstract

The extent of field drainage activity for agriculture in England and Wales is examined for the period 1971-80. This was a time of major agricultural expansion, when 10 per cent of the farm land was drained, and a unique amount of data are available for study. Maps are presented showing the spatial patterns of drainage activity, the main causes of drainage need and the major types of drainage design adopted. Data sources and techniques for deriving the maps are also discussed. The extent of drainage activity is shown to be dominated by economic factors favouring the arable claylands of eastern England. Whilst the reasons for poor natural drainage reflect the geographical distribution of soils and geology the broad type of system adopted often depends upon local traditions as much as on physical factors.