Controls on late-Holocene drift-sand dynamics: The dominant role of human pressure in the Netherlands
H.J. Pierik|Rowin J. van Lanen|Marjolein T.I.J. Gouw-Bouman|Bert J. Groenewoudt|Jakob Wallinga|Wim Z. Hoek
Holocene drift-sand activity in the northwest European sand belt is commonly directly linked to population pressure (agricultural activity) or climate change (e.g. storminess). In Pleistocene areas of Netherlands, small-scale began Mesolithic, whereas large-scale drifting started during Middle Ages. This last phase not only coincides with intensification farming and demographic but also associated a colder enhanced storminess. raises question what extent can be attributed either human activities natural forcing factors. this study, we compare spatial temporal patterns occurrence for four characteristic regions Netherlands period between 1000 BC AD 1700. To end, compiled new supra-regional overview based on age estimates (14C, optically stimulated luminescence (OSL), archaeological historical ages). The was then compared time space historical-route networks, relative vegetation openness climate. Results indicate constant low 1000, interrupted by remarkable decrease around BC/AD transition. It evident that landscape most influential initiating drifting: supported more frequent occurrences close routes uninterrupted increase from 900 onwards, high density deforestation. Once triggered activities, development probably further intensified several centuries later cold stormier 'Little Ice Age' (LIA; 1570-1850).
The Holocene|Europe PMC (PubMed Central)|Data Archiving and Networked Services (DANS)|PubMed Central|PubMed