Abstract
Synopsis: Inter- and sub-tidal organic deposits are widely distributed along the Atlantic coast of the Uists. Two sites, at Pabbay (Sound of Harris) and Borve (Benbecula), include sub-tidal sections and these have been examined in detail. Fifteen other sites are summarised. Radiocarbon dates, pollen and macro remains in the organic layers indicate that sea level was 3 to 5 m lower between 8800 B.P. and 5164 B.P. than at present. The site at Pabbay provides evidence for a time (around 4366 B.P.) of massive sand-blowing onto the coast. Such sand accumulation may be equated with the origin of machair land in this area. All the sites provide evidence of coastal retreat and substantial changes in coastal outline.

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