16 MASS. EXPERIMENT STATION BULLETIN 385 



are found in the Hinckley soils of the B3 group. Unfortunately, due ir 

 some cases to poor planning or in most cases to lack of planning, a con- 

 siderable amount of good agricultural land has been taken for urban and 

 industrial uses. Some readjustments in use may be possible; future plan- 

 ning should take more cognizance of natural adaptability. 



Summary 



Data on certain natural characteristics of land important in determining 

 its use were collected from 48 soil types in 17 series on 13,211 acres. Soil 

 type, slope, stoniness, and erosion were mapped in great detail, which 

 permits comparisons and interpretations hitherto impossible in this area. 

 Slope was shown to be an important factor affecting land use in dairy 

 farming, but stoniness was more important. Erosion was found to be 

 extensive, only 3.8 percent of the area surveyed showing no erosion, but 

 slight erosion was by far the predominant type. 



Any method of land classification which accomplishes the purpose for 

 which it was intended may be called good. A method of land classification 

 which is not so technical as to require a trained technician for its inter- 

 pretation or application is sought by certain groups interested in land use. 

 Soil type is one of the important factors determining land use, but it is 

 not considered the most practicable unit for this purpose. Soil types may 

 be grouped into natural land types for practical utility. 



The classification of land into types based on natural characteristics and 

 for purposes of utilization is illustrated by means of the categories set up 

 for one county. This classification is of value especially in connection 

 with large-scale planning. It is based on the information given in the soil 

 surveys of the State and a small amount of field work. Since this classi- 

 fication is a natural one, it must be applied in connection with economic 

 and social factors. 



For detailed land-use planning, as on individual farms, the technic and 

 classification involving land use capabilities developed by the United States 

 Soil Conservation Service has certain advantages. An example of the 

 application of the method of classifying land according to its use capa- 

 bilities is given. 



Publication or this Document Affrovbd bt Coumission on Administration and Financb 

 3in-5-41 — 6327 



