Good Marl Lands

Good Marl Lands

Prof. I. C. Russell, of the geological department of the University of Michigan has recently made an examination of marl lands in the southern part of the state, and found remarkably favorable conditions. The marl, mixed with ordinary clay, is used in the manufacture of Portland cement, and Michigan will evidently take a leading place in this industry. The marl occurs as a highly calcareous or limy mud or ooze in the bottom of lakes and in marshes. It usually contains shells and appears light colored or near white on drying, but is sometimes darkened by organic matter. The swamp lands where the marl occurs are usually considered as of little value, but they are really worth more per acre than the best of agricultural land, and at the present time are demand.-University News Letter.