2008 Annual Report 1a.Objectives (from AD-416) To determine historic and prehistoric anthropogenic influences on soil erosion and sedimentation in northern Mississippi and its influence on soil fertility, land use history, and long-term changes on vegetation, hydrology, and geomorphology. 1b.Approach (from AD-416) An interdisciplinary approach will be taken that involves the fields of pedology, environmental geography, peo-archaeology, and archaeology. The methodology used consists of in-depth soil profile description and laboratory analysis, sampling using various dating techniques, identification of pedological and geological processes, correlation analysis with GPS/GIS data and historical material and images, and landowner interviews. Erosional and depositional phases and cycles will be identified that correspond to Woodland and Mississippi prehistoric periods, European settlement since the 1830's, post Civil War abandonment, and the introduction of mechanized agriculture and forestry for several Loess sites in northern Mississippi. The results will be incorporated into a collection of global data. 3.Progress Report This project seeks to determine the effect of anthropogenic factors on erosion and deposition. In particular, the effects of European settlement of the 19th century and associated conversion of land to agricultural production are of interest. Activities were limited to a brief visit by the principal investigator to conduct additional sampling and re-sampling of specific sites in North Mississippi. Also, an exploratory study was made to expand the research scope at the Owl Creek site in North Mississippi. Several manuscripts are in an advanced state of preparation.