Roddon

A roddon is a raised, meandering ridge of sediment that marks the infilled course of a former tidal creek or river channel, typically found in reclaimed fenland or marshland areas. They are formed when sediment, often consisting of silt and clay, is deposited within the channel. Over time, this sediment accumulates and compacts, eventually forming a raised ridge as the surrounding marshland is reclaimed or subsides due to drainage and peat shrinkage.

Roddon soils often differ significantly from the surrounding peat soils. They are typically more mineral-rich and better drained than the adjacent areas, making them potentially more suitable for certain types of agriculture or development. The winding course of a roddon can be clearly visible in aerial photographs or through variations in soil type and vegetation. Studying the location and orientation of roddons can provide valuable insights into the historical drainage patterns and landscape evolution of fenland environments.