Terminology and lithostratigraphic division of (surficial) sandy eolian deposits in the Netherlands: an evaluation

Abstract

The terminology of the eolian sand deposits and related form and relief types in The Nethertands is reviewed and evaluated. Because there is as yet no consensus on the criteria for a division of eolian sediments into lithostratigraphic units, the various lithological properties of the following 'sand types' are discussed: Younger and Older Coastal Dune Deposits of the Westland Formation, (Younger and) Older River Dune Deposits of the Kreftenheye Formation, Younger and Older Cover Sand Deposits of the Twente Formation, Older Inland Dune Deposits of the Twente Formation and Younger Inland Dune Deposits of the Kootwijk Formation. Geomorphological criteria, that can facilitate in distinguishing between these seemingly homogeneous 'sand types', have been summarized. A simplified lithostratigraphic division of surficial eolian sediments into three formations is tentatively proposed.