Investigations into Oneota Ridged Field Agriculture on the Northern Margin of the Prairie Peninsula

Oneota ridged field agricultural patterns in the Driftless Area of southwestern Wisconsin are reviewed in light of data provided by archaeological and geomorphological investigations at the Sand Lake Site. This research is summarized and a new functional interpretation of agricultural ridging is presented. A multi-functional explanation is put forth centering on tillage and control of micro-environmental factors related to a short growing season.