Tellus Soil Sampling Survey Commences Across South East Ireland 2021

To collect this data, the latest phase of the survey will involve pairs of samplers collecting soil samples across the south east of Ireland (working in parts of counties Carlow, Laois, Kilkenny, Tipperary, Waterford, Wexford and Wicklow). Soil samples obtained will be about 1 kg in weight and will be taken to a maximum depth of 50 cm. All samples will be analysed for a range of geochemical elements and the information will be made freely available.

This soil sampling phase will run from late summer 2021 until winter 2021/2022. The locations are randomly distributed to ensure we collect a representative sample of the general area, so no individual landowners are targeted. In a future survey phase, stream sites will be visited where samplers will collect small bottles of water and less than 500 g of sediment.

• To gather this data, teams of two will be collecting soil samples at selected sites. Each sample is approximately 1 kg of soil per 4 km2
• If your land contains a sample site, we would appreciate your co-operation in allowing the survey access for a short period.

As it is vital to raise public awareness of the project, particularly amongst farmers and landowners, the Tellus team is delivering an ongoing communications campaign across the region to ensure all stakeholders are informed.

If you have any concerns about the survey, particularly if you own sensitive livestock, or if you are interested in finding out more about the project, you can contact the Tellus Freephone information line on 1800 45 55 65 or visit www.tellus.ie. You can also follow Tellus on twitter @TellusGSI.