John S. Smith

Tidal creek and pan formation in intertidal salt marshes, Nigg Bay, Scotland

Abstract Existing theories of creek and pan formation in intertidal salt marshes emphasise intertidal micro‐topography and resultant variation in vegetal colonisation as the basic factors controlling their pattern on the mature salt marsh. Morphological studies on certain Scottish marshes suggest that collapse of parts of the mature marsh surface results from sub‐surface piping phenomena. The existing theories of creek and pan formation are reviewed and an entirely new theory of formation is advanced.

The Invergordon Aluminium smelter — growth policy gone wrong? A note

Abstract The background to the choice of Invergordon, Easter Ross, as a site for an aluminium smelter is examined together with the reasons for its recent closure. It is suggested that the failure of the smelter should lead to an urgent reconsideration by the Highlands and Islands Development Board of its regional growth strategy.

Land transfers from farming in Grampian and highland, 1969–1980

Abstract Loss of quality land to non‐agricultural uses in the Grampian and Highland Regions since the mid‐1960s is quantified by field‐mapping. It is concluded that an alarming proportion of the total land taken for development continues to fall within the higher land capability classes. Agricultural blight is closely correlated with the seaboard distribution of oil‐related developments.

Recent publications relating to the geography of Scotland 1992–93

The following list, whilst not exhaustive, is intended to cover the main publications of relevance to the geography of Scotland that appeared in 1995. Some items omitted from previous lists have also been included. Publications of the Scottish Association of Geography Teachers and papers in the Scottish Geographical Magazine are not included: these are, of course standard sources. As before, dissertations, annual reports and local authority planning reports have been excluded.