10Be and 14C data provide insight on soil mass redistribution along gentle slopes and reveal ancient human impact

Abstract Purpose Spatial and temporal patterns of past erosional events are a useful needed information to explain observed soil in different landscapes. Soil thickness reflects the overall expression pedogenesis erosion. Forested soils Northern Germany exhibit varying thicknesses with thin on crest positions buried at footslope. The aim this study is reconstruct complex mass redistribution forested area due periods erosion stability. Methods We explored explanatory power both 10 Be (in situ meteoric) hillslope we 14 C-dated horizons depths. Results depth profiles did not show an exponential decrease depth. They had ‘bulge’ shape indicating clay translocation interaction oxyhydroxydes (meteoric Be), bioturbation Be). combined application C dating revealed progressive regressive phases evolution. Although Melzower Forest protected (same vegetation) since 250 years, clearly indicated major along investigated catena. Conclusion A strong impulse must have occurred between 4.5 6.8 kyr BP earlier human impact than previously postulated (~ 3 earlier). Our findings correlate fact first settlements reported for region BP) their immediate effect soils. rates forest surprisingly similar those obtained from nearby agricultural area.