Lake Engure catchment area as an example of the interaction of natural conditions, settlement pattern and economic activities

The authors have written this paper as an overview of the area, which includes earlier published data and the results of a new, original research. It covers the geological structure, including a characterisation of the geology of the Sub-Quaternary surface. Described in greater detail are the Quaternary cover and the surface relief, as well as the hypsometry, which in many locations directly influence the conditions of surface drainage, soil development and landscape characteristics. Based on the morphology and internal structure of the relief, the main stages in the formation of the relief are also outlined, in effect marking temporal differences in landscape development. The influence of these factors, as well as a string of other natural factors (groundwater and surface drainage, the proximity of the sea) within distinct parts of the study area, explain the character of human economic activities, the development of settlement and the traditions that have continued over the centuries. Several different areas are clearly distinguishable in functional terms: 1) the area where farming is the characteristic activity, 2) the area used for fishing and recreation, 3) forested areas, with soils unsuitable for agriculture. The form and intensity of land use also determine the distribution of settlements and population size.