This book has been written with emphasis on the fundamental engineering principles underlying the peat characteristics, importance of peat, environmental effects of peat, determination of the mechanical properties of peat terrain, mechanisation of peat based on the vehicle for highland, moderate peatland and peat swamp . The mechanisation of peat has been discussed in regards to the development of peat vehicle and their performance. This book intends to introduce senior undergraduate and postgraduate students to the study of the peat terrain and theory of peat vehicle mobility.

Marshes, both tidal and non-tidal, are productive and complex ecosystems. The water in these systems ranges from fresh, to brackish, to saline as one moves from inland to coastal areas. Marshes are an interface between upland and aquatic habitats. In this book, the authors present current research in the study of the ecology, management and conservation of marshes including the climatic roles of marshes; the mesocosm marsh ecology of two south-western Spanish estuaries; factors conditioning the vegetation in the salt marshes of the Atlantic Coast of the Iberian Peninsula; and nutrient cycling in salt marshes.

This series of short volumes, each devoted to a theme, which is the subject of contemporary debate in archaeology, ranges from issues in theory and method to aspects of world archaeology. Wetland archaeology has provided some of the most exciting discoveries in world archaeology, from bog bodies in northern Europe, to prehistoric and medieval wetland dwellings in central and western Europe, New Zealand, Japan and the Pacific Northwest. Arguably, however, the amount of evidence from these sites and the need for intense multidisciplinary scientific analysis, allied to a general tendency towards empiricist research, has led to wetland archaeology being isolated from current theoretical debates. "Rethinking Wetland Archaeology" shows how wetland studies can be contextualised within broader geographical, cultural and theoretical frameworks. It discusses how wetland archaeological discoveries can be understood in terms of past people's perception and understanding of landscape, which was not only a source of economic benefit, but a storehouse of, and a metaphor for, cultural values and beliefs. It argues that archaeologists interested in the temporal rhythms of life, and in cultural biographies of place and objects, should look again at the astonishingly detailed narratives produced by wetland archaeology. Finally, it considers the past and future role of wetland archaeologists in contemporary political and social discourses.

"Fervent and stirring."--David Yarnold, president and CEO, National Audubon Society "Stone's spectacular photography captures the splendor of America's Everglades. His remarkable book is convincing proof that our nation cannot risk losing this unique natural wonder."--Eric Eikenberg, CEO, Everglades Foundation ""Everglades" takes us into the lives of elusive species living far from the boardwalks and tourist trails. With the mind of a scientist, eyes of an artist, and the heart of an adventurer, Stone bears witness to the unrivaled beauty of America's wetland."--Carlton Ward Jr., author of "Florida Cowboys" "What Mac Stone has done in pictures is akin to what Marjory Stoneman Douglas did with words, and our understanding and appreciation of the Everglades has once again been transformed."--John Moran, author of "Journal of Light" "Showcases the natural beauty of the Everglades region and touches upon the critical issues that face resource managers today. It offers a dynamic visual experience and gives a very moving account of this often misunderstood national treasure."--Roger Hammer, author of "A Falcon Guide to Everglades National Park and the Surrounding Area" "Mac Stone's photographs capture the essence of the Everglades, a vast and unique natural area that continues to be threatened by commercial interests."--Jerald Milanich, coauthor of "Enchantments: Julian Dimock's Photographs of Southwest Florida"

From Lake Okeechobee to Florida Bay, from inside the bone-crushing jaws of an alligator to the storms that race across the blackwater backcountry, award-winning conservation photographer Mac Stone takes us on a visual journey through the Everglades. More than 200 striking photographs showcase the natural beauty of this unique wetland, capturing the amazing depths of its landscapes, the diversity of its wildlife, and the resilience of the largest subtropical wilderness in the United States.
Aerial views highlight the vast expanse of the River of Grass. Underwater images capture the endless wonders of the Everglades, including sharks darting through mangrove roots. Intimate close-ups showcase awe-inspiring flora and fauna such as the ghost orchid, the Florida panther, the endangered Everglades snail kite, roseate spoonbills, and, of course, the majestic American alligator.
As a biologist for the National Audubon Society, Stone traveled to the most remote areas of the Everglades to collect these images. With his camera, he explored Everglades National Park, Corkscrew Swamp, Fisheating Creek, and dozens of sites that few are permitted to visit. His stunning photographs capture the innumerable facets of this ecological marvel while speaking to the importance of wilderness conservation and the need to protect these amazingly wild wetlands.
In a special foreword, Michael Grunwald introduces readers to a short history of the Everglades, from the immense amount of developing and restructuring it has endured to a discussion of the dangers inherent to destroying such an important ecosystem. Grunwald breaks down just how crucial Everglades restoration is, not only for Florida but as a litmus test for other watersheds around the world.
Exclusive essays from the top minds in Everglades conservation appear throughout the book, opening an even wider perspective on Stone's powerful photographs. With its stellar selection of informative writings, together with images that have wowed National Geographic, the BBC, NPR, as well as magazines and newspapers across the globe, "Everglades" provides a rare glimpse at the world's most famous wetland.