Teagasc and Geological Survey of Ireland partner

Teagasc and the Geological Survey of Ireland have signed an agreement to share data on groundwater and surface water quality in high-risk farming areas.

The two organisations have underpinned their longstanding relationship by signing a memorandum of understanding.

Teagasc director Prof Gerry Boyle and GSI director Koen Verbruggen signed the agreement at Teagasc Ashtown Research Centre, Dublin.

Prof Boyle said: “The two organisations commit to working closely on areas of common interest, including improved understanding of soil chemistry, using Tellus to understand national soil variability and the implications for farmers to reach Food Wise 2025 targets.”

Teagasc and GSI first collaborated on the National Soil Survey of Ireland in the 1980s.

They also produced the first national subsoils map, which informed Teagasc’s Soils Map of Ireland.

Mr Verbruggen said: “This agreement will help develop the Soil Information System for Ireland through improved data integration between Teagasc and the GSI and improved assessment of the effect of agriculture on groundwater and surface water via the spatial identification of farms in high-risk areas.