THE MACHAIR GRASSLANDS OF THE HEBRIDES

The utilization of Scottish hill-land potential is severely limited by inadequate wintering facilities resulting from a low proportion of inbye land to hill-land. The machair lands of the Uists, in the Outer Hebrides, however, provide a more suitable ratio, which is not commonly found in the Highlands of Scotland.
Investigations into the grassland problems of the Hebrides were intensified in 1955; and some of the data obtained from trials are given here, as are suggestions for improving the production and utilization of grass in these areas. The climate, soil, and agricultural system all interact to provide conditions which are rarely seen elsewhere.