62 AFFORESTATION IX SCOTLAND. 



metamorphic processes. In places they are traversed by veins 

 of granite and pegmatite, due partly to intrusion and partly 

 to segregation. 



The Old Red Sandstone strata, south-east of Loch Oich, 

 consists of conglomerates and sandstones that rest on the old 

 floor of metamorphic rocks, and hence belong to a later i>eriod 

 of the geological record. There is clear evidence to prove 

 that the crystalline schists of the metamorphic series were 

 folded and extensively denuded before the deposition of the 

 Old Red Sandstone. 



Reference ought to be made to the great line of dislocation 

 that runs along the Great Glen from Loch Linnhe to Inverness, 

 which has determined this straight physical feature, and has 

 modified the structure of the rocks on either side. 



In Glen Moriston and along the Great Glen there are 

 morainic deposits that point to the extensive glaciation of the 

 region. The terraces between Loch Ness and Locli Oich 

 indicate old raised beaches. 



General. — The surface herbage in the open is mostly bracken 

 and grass, but heather appears in parts, A considerable portion 

 of the ground is already covered with trees, partly natural, and 

 partly the result of planting. Birch is the prevailing tree, but in 

 Glen Moriston there is a considerable area of old Scots pine.^ 



The soil varies considerably throughout the area. It is 

 mostly of a light and friable nature and of sufficient depth. 

 Part of it is undoubtedly first-class larch ground, while a 

 considerable portion is heavier, and is suitable for Menzies 

 spruce and common spruce. These species with the addition 

 of Douglas fir, where conditions are suitable, should form the 

 crop for the first rotation at any rate. Japanese larch can be 

 substituted for the common larch in some of the compartments. 

 It should also be used to a considerable extent, as a "catch " or 

 short-rotation crop, till such time as the woods are in full work- 

 ing order. All the species named are quick growers, and will 

 yield early returns. The different species are not to be mixed 

 among one another, but are to be kept in pure groujxs by them- 

 selves. An idea of the proportions of the ground suitable for 

 the different species may be gathered from Map No. 2. It must 

 not be understood, however, that larch or spruce or any other 



' For details of existing woods, see CJliapter \'Iir. 



