[8] 



On the hew Jersey Marls, By George Holcombe^ M, D^ 

 of Allen Town, N. J. September 30, 1815. 



The marls of New Jersey are of two kinds, differing 

 very widely in their nature and properties, viz. Firstly, 

 the calcareous marl, corresponding to the common 

 marls of Europe ; and, secondly, the ferruginous marl, 

 which is probably peculiar to the state of New Jersey. 



The calcareous marl, originating from the decompo- 

 sition of sea-shells, is found in inexhaustible quantities, 

 along the sea board in Monmouth county, and extends 

 from thence, in different directions, upwards of 30 miles 

 into the interior of that county. Those immense bluffs 

 and masses of land which form the Highlands of Nave- 

 sink, are principally composed of marl. The farmers 

 have discovered it to be, like stable manure, of benefit 

 to every kind of soil, and every species of vegetation. 

 Excellent wheat soil is made by spreading it, in sufficient 

 quantities, over light and sandy land. 



The richest stable manure is dissipated by a few crops; 

 but marl, if used at first in sufficient quantities, will con- 

 tinue to fertilise much longer. 



Calcareous marl appear to fertilise in proportion to 

 the quantity used. This remark is proved by the analy- 

 sis of Davy. The farmer, consequently, in neighbour- 

 hoods in which it abounds, may give to his lands an un- 

 limited fertility ; and at an expense that will be but 

 slightly proportioned to the profits of a rich and perma- 

 nently productive farm. 



Marie beds contiguous to navigation, will form, in time, 

 sources of extensive profit to the proprietors. Sloop 

 loads have already been purchased at the Highlands, 



