This course builds on previous material given in plant science and aquatic sciences. It will apply the principles of soil science to the management of soil and water resources, with a focus on pollution prevention through source protection which is of utmost importance in light of the current stringent legislation implemented both by the European Union and at national level. Such legislation includes the Water Framework Directive, the Nitrates Directive, the Groundwater Directive, the Waste Management Act and the Landfill Directive and the future soil focused legislation and directives, all of which form an integral part of this module.

A study on the major cycling systems in soil and water resources. Earth system components including the atmosphere, hydrosphere, biosphere and lithosphere. Major energy, moisture, carbon, sulphur cycling systems, residence times of soil, surface and ground waters. An Integrated Catchment Management approach to achieve the Water Framework Directive objectives both Nationally and Internationally.

Soil properties and its management; soil as a filtering/buffering system in aquifer protection. Soil as a vital hydrologic routing system; Soil-water interactions in the management of river basins; physical, chemical and biological characteristics of surface and ground waters. Soil Microbiome; The role of micro-organisms in agricultural production and the interactions of these organisms with soil and water quality.

Context and principles of water management from catchment to consumer; Sources of drinking water in Ireland; issues including contamination with pathogens, nitrate, THMs. Overview of constructed wetlands, bioswales, turloughs and other groundwater dependent ecosystems. Potential impacts of climate change and other large-scale drivers on water and soil resources.

Soil quality and runoff risk assessment from various sources; Surface and groundwater contamination and protection including pollution from septic tanks, nutrient enrichment from agricultural practices and other industries. The role of animal manures and other organic wastes on the BOD and nutrient loads within aquatic systems; safe landspreading of organic wastes; agriculture and soil erosion. Statutory and voluntary regulations on waste, soil and water management and protection.

Physical and chemical properties of soils; Analysis of soil for bulk density, porosity, organic content, particle size, pH, available phosphorus, and carbon and nitrogen contents. Soil-water interactions; Analysis of groundwater and soil, prior to and after a contaminant plume such as an on-site wastewater treatment system. Analysis of a range of water contaminants, such as wastes from the wastewater treatment systems, the agri-food industry, the mining industry and other industrial pollutants.

1. A field excursion to examine different soil types, their management, associated land use and profiles. Soil samples will be taken and analysed in subsequent laboratory sessions. 2. A field excursion on catchment management; This will invove visiting various impacted freshwater sites where monitoring stations are in place. A list of possible pollution risks will be assembled and these data will be compiled in a report format.