MARYLAND GEOLOGICAL SURVEY 135 



organic matter from tlie mainland and from the tidal flats usual along 

 low shore lines would be commingled with the sand and silt of the 

 bottoms of the estuaries. In such a manner the sandy loams of this 

 foreland portion of the county most probably originated. As the rela- 

 tive elevation of land and sea changed, this new-formed soil became 

 exposed, and encroaching land vegetation further aided in the preparation 

 of the loam for agricultural purposes. 



The soil is a dark-brown sandy loam, having an average depth of 

 about 14 inches. The subsoil is heavier, in most instances consisting 

 of a yellow or reddish-yellow sandy loam. At 30 inches depth the sub- 

 soil is normally succeeded by a reddish sand, though frequently this is 

 wanting and a silty drab layer is found, which extends nearly or quite 

 to tide level. 



This soil is so well recognized as a desirable farming land that all 

 original tree growth has been removed and the area is occupied by 

 cultivated fields. Corn, wheat, and tobacco are raised on the Sassafras 

 sandy loam, and the yield of each is somewhat higher than the average 

 yield for the county. The average wheat crop will consist of about 15 

 bushels per acre; that of corn about 7 barrels, or 35 bushels; while the 

 tobacco will grow to 1600 poimds per acre, and will sell at 5 or 6 cents 

 per pound. Of course, much larger crops are raised under favorable 

 conditions, while unfavorable conditions of season or culture will corre- 

 spondingly cause a decrease in yield. 



In the Cedar Point area the production of green peas, tomatoes, and 

 of sweet corn for canning purposes has been undertaken. The climatic 

 and soil conditions are favorable to profitable production of these and 

 other crops classed as truck or canning crops. Along the Patuxent 

 Eiver, near Forrest Wharf, the culture of broom corn is being under- 

 taken. The success of this attempt has not been learned. 



Owing to the location of tliis soil along the shore near shipping points, 

 as well as to its texture and general properties, it is well adapted to the 

 raising of fruits, vegetables, and general truck crops which derive value 

 from being placed on an early market. Its position also makes irriga- 



