Nationwide Geological Survey Moves Forward

A nationwide survey which collects geochemical and geophysical data on rocks, soil and water across Ireland has moved to the south east.

This next phase will see the Tellus Survey programme cover counties Carlow, Wexford and neighbouring parts of Kildare, Kilkenny, Waterford and Wicklow until autumn 2019.

A low-flying plane is equipped with state-of the-art instruments to collect the data.

This project aims to have 75% of Ireland mapped by 2020, with the resulting data having the potential to deliver positive economic, environmental and agricultural benefits by helping to assist in understanding the local environment, soil management and natural resource potential for these counties.

Dr James Hodgson, Senior Geologist and Project Manager for Tellus, said: "I am pleased to see the Tellus Survey programme launch into a new phase, gathering data across south east Ireland. The Tellus Survey is an important project which continues to provide us with significant data that will offer us valuable insights about the makeup of Ireland. As we start this new phase, I also want to thank the local community in counties Limerick, Tipperary and west Cork for their support while we surveyed the area over the last few months and encourage anyone in the south east of Ireland who has concerns regarding sensitive livestock to reach out to us on the Freephone Information line 1800 45 55 65."

Data collected throughout the Tellus project is published and made freely available to all on the Tellus website.