Agricultural Land Classification Survey for Ringmer, 1989-1999

Ringmer (Lewes DLP Site 12) is a detailed post-1988 Agricultural Land Classification (ALC) survey for England and Wales. The dataset likely contains scanned original paper maps, survey reports, and unedited soil data for a site surveyed between 1989 and 1999 by the Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food. It uses the grading methodology from the 'Agricultural Land Classification of England and Wales' guidelines.

Use Cases

• Classify agricultural land quality based on the detailed ALC grading methodology described.
• Analyze soil characteristics for land planning based on available soil pit descriptions and sample point data.
• Map land capability at varying scales (from 1:5,000 to 1:50,000) for regional agricultural studies.
• Validate or supplement modern land classification models with historical, detailed survey data.

Strengths

• Includes the subdivision of Grade 3 land into subgrades 3a and 3b, providing finer detail.
• Original survey materials (scanned maps and reports) are preserved for a site surveyed between 1989 and 1999.
• Some surveys include unedited sample point soils data and soil pit descriptions.

Limitations

• Row count, column definitions, and file formats are unknown, limiting suitability assessment.
• Last update date is unknown; freshness unverified.
• Data is derived from scanned paper maps and reports, which may require digitization for analysis.

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 captured in paper maps and reports that were later scanned.

Time Range

1989 to 1999

Freshness

Survey data is from 1989-1999; update frequency is unknown.

Geography

Ringmer, Lewes District, England and Wales