Agricultural Land Classification Survey: Detailed Site Maps and Reports (1989-1999)

England and Wales agricultural land classification data for individual sites surveyed between 1989 and 1999 by the Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food. The dataset includes scanned original paper maps, survey reports, and for some sites, unedited sample point soils data and soil pit descriptions. Maps were created at scales from 1:5,000 to 1:50,000, typically 1:10,000, using the grading methodology from the 'Agricultural Land Classification of England and Wales' guidelines.

Use Cases

• Classify agricultural land capability based on detailed soil survey reports.
• Analyze historical land quality changes using site-specific maps and grading data.
• Train geospatial models for soil quality prediction using point soils data and pit descriptions.
• Support land planning decisions with detailed subgrade classifications (e.g., 3a, 3b).

Strengths

• Includes original scanned maps and reports, preserving primary survey detail.
• Surveys use a defined national grading methodology ('Agricultural Land Classification of England and Wales').
• Contains subgrade classifications (3a and 3b) for Grade 3 land.
• Some surveys include unedited sample point soils data and soil pit descriptions.

Limitations

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

Provenance

Source

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

Collection Method

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

Time Range

1989 to 1999

Freshness

Survey data collected between 1989 and 1999; last update date unknown.

Geography

England and Wales, specifically the Broadgate, Hookwood Ln site (Test Valley LP: site 157) and other individual sites.