ALCR02089: Detailed Agricultural Land Classification Survey for Hatford, 1989-1999

Original paper maps and survey reports for the Hatford, Manor House Farm site, classified using the post-1988 Agricultural Land Classification (ALC) methodology. The data includes scanned maps at scales from 1:5,000 to 1:50,000 and, for some surveys, unedited soil sample point data and pit descriptions. This detailed survey was conducted by the Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food between 1989 and 1999.

Use Cases

• Analyze historical land quality based on the detailed Agricultural Land Classification grades and subgrades.
• Map soil characteristics and variability using the unedited sample point soils data and pit descriptions.
• Study changes in agricultural land capability over time by comparing with other survey periods.
• Integrate detailed site-level land classification into broader regional land use models.

Strengths

• Uses the established 'Agricultural Land Classification of England and Wales' grading methodology.
• Includes subdivision of Grade 3 land into subgrades 3a and 3b for finer detail.
• Provides original scanned maps and reports, preserving the primary survey record.
• Some surveys include unedited soil sample point data and detailed pit descriptions.

Limitations

• Column-level documentation is absent; field semantics must be inferred after download.
• Last update date is unknown; freshness unverified.
• Row count and file formats are unknown, which may limit suitability assessment.

Provenance

Source

Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food (MAFF), via Natural England and the Government Digital Service.

Collection Method

Detailed site surveys conducted by MAFF, with results recorded on paper maps and in reports.

Time Range

1989 to 1999

Freshness

Survey data is from 1989-1999; update frequency is not applicable.

Geography

Hatford, Manor House Farm site (specific location in England).