Introduction to Agricultural Land Classification (ALC)
[Wednesday 12 - Thursday 13 November, Cranfield University] [This is a 2-day, in-person training course.]
Agricultural Land Classification (ALC) has a formal role in the planning system in England and Wales and is designed to prevent the loss of our best and most versatile land in line with the principles of sustainable development.
This training course, designed and presented by agricultural land classification (ALC) experts, offers a unique opportunity to learn about the background and technical basis of the current ALC guidelines.
By the end of the course you will learn:
The course will include the opportunity to work within a group to undertake an ALC grading desk exercise to apply what you have learned. This course is designed for soil scientists who wish to extend their experience to (or refresh an existing awareness of) Agricultural Land Classification, those commissioning ALC surveys from specialists, and planners reviewing ALC reports.
Delegates are expected to have a level of competency with regards to soil sampling and classification; and these are topics which are covered on our practical Working with Soil training courses.
Food and drink will be provided.
----------------------------------
If you have booked but would like to cancel for whatever reason, please refer to our Cancellation Policy.
The British Society of Soil Science is pleased to announce a series of COP30 webinars, the first taking place on Wednesday 12 November from 1:00-2:30pm (UK time) and is free of charge to register. Join a panel of expert speakers as they discuss the role of Indigenous Peoples in Soil Health Management.
Soils are at the heart of climate action, food security, and biodiversity. Indigenous Peoples, who protect nearly 80% of the world’s biodiversity, have long been the custodians of land, forests, and soils. Their traditional knowledge and cultural practices offer nature-based solutions for sustaining soil health, restoring degraded lands, and adapting to climate change.
However, Indigenous communities are facing difficult challenges such as:
The British Society of Soil Science is pleased to announce a series of COP30 webinars, the second taking place on Monday 17 November from 1:00-2:30pm (UK time) and is free of charge to register. Join a panel of expert speakers as they discuss Soils as a Pathway to Net Zero.
Soils are at the heart of climate solutions—not only as carbon sinks but also as key players in cutting greenhouse gas emissions across agriculture and land use. Healthy soils have the potential to store more carbon than the atmosphere and vegetation combined, making them a powerful tool for climate mitigation. This event will explore how restoring and managing soil health can reduce nitrous oxide and methane emissions, enhance soil carbon sequestration, and build resilience to climate extremes. It will showcase strategies where soil management is integrated into national climate change action plans, including nature-based solutions, agroecology, and regenerative agriculture. Recognising soils as critical climate infrastructure, the session aims to elevate their role in achieving global Net Zero targets.
This event is now fully booked however you can feel free to register and join the waiting list in the event of any drop outs.
[The Early Careers' Conference will be free of charge for BSSS Early Career members with one overnight stay included.]
We are pleased to announce that the next British Society of Soil Science Early Careers' Conference will take place in Manchester on Monday 1 and Tuesday 2 December.
Venue: The Conference will be held at King's House Conference Centre, Manchester, M1 7HB
Abstract: The scientific committee is currently accepting oral and poster abstracts across five topics, linked to the conference theme, Resilient Soils for a Sustainable Future:
Oral abstract submissions will be open until Sunday 31 August. Poster abstract submissions will be open until Friday 24 October.
You can find out more about the abstract themes and how to submit via the BSSS website.
About the Conference: The Early Career conference will take place on 1-2 December (immediately before the BSSS Annual Conference) and will be free of charge for BSSS Early Career members. A wide range of Early Career members from Academia, Industry, and Policy will come together for a variety of themed sessions, including talks, posters, and workshops, with social activities including a Conference Dinner (on 1 December). The packed two-day event will provide delegates with a fantastic opportunity to see the latest research and developments within soil science.
Programme: The full programme is available on the BSSS website. Given the significant changes to our EC committee this year, we’re taking this opportunity to warmly welcome our new members, share some exciting updates on our progress, and allow time for networking before diving into presentations. Across the two days, you’ll have the chance to hear the latest scientific developments in soil science through a range of oral and poster presentations from your peers. We’re also hosting several workshops aimed at enhancing your communication skills and helping you better translate your science for different audiences.
One of the highlights will be a panel session showcasing diverse career journeys in soil science and the skills required along the way. This year, we’re expanding our options with parallel workshop sessions, including an option focused on soil classification and description—perfect if practical soil skills is more your style. We’ll wrap up the event with abstract awards and a final roundup
We are delighted to be working partnership with Manchester Accommodation BID in the delivery of the event, and would like to thank them for their continued support and expertise.
The British Society of Soil Science 2025 Annual Conference will take place from Wednesday 3 – Friday 5 December in Manchester. The overall conference theme is Resilient Soils for a Sustainable Future. The packed multi-disciplinary event spanning the built, natural environment and agricultural sectors, set at King's House Conference Centre in Manchester, will provide delegates with a fantastic opportunity to see the latest research and developments within soil science.
About the conference: With the UK consultation on a new approach to land use highlighting the need to protect our most productive agricultural land and enhance food security, the role of soil health is more critical than ever. Across the world, there is growing recognition—from bodies such as the UK EFRA Committee—that soil health should be treated with the same priority as water and air. This conference will provide a platform to discuss these pressing issues, with a focus on:
Programme: The exciting and diverse programme will feature keynote speakers and experts across the 2 days. The full programme is available on the BSSS website.
Tours: You can also choose to take part in a tour on Friday 5 December. Friday morning will provide an opportunity for delegates to visit a field site, near to Manchester, and learn about local soils projects. There will also be a local city walking tour that you can choose to do.
Gala Dinner: There will also be a Gala Dinner in the evening on Wednesday 3 December. This will consist of a drinks reception and 3 course meal, as well as entertainment and awards at Manchester Hall, providing an authentic experience for the conference. Tickets cost £78.00 and can be booked here - https://members.soils.org.uk/event-6210980
Sponsors: Our headline sponsors for the conference are Elementar and the Soil Use and Management journal.
We are pleased to be welcoming several exhibitors to the conference including: The Dutch Scientist, Umwelt-Geräte-Technik GmbH (UGT), Van Walt, Cranfield University/LandIS, Royal Eijkelkamp and CABI.
We have exciting sponsorship packages for our 2025 Annual Conference so if you are interested in supporting the Society and would like learn more, click here.
[The Gala Dinner is part of the BSSS Annual Conference.]
This will consist of a 3 course meal and a drinks reception, plus entertainment and awards in one of the most uniquely historic venues in Manchester, providing an authentic experience for the conference.
This is set to be a fabulous event and a great opportunity to sit down and network with other delegates. It will also be the perfect way to celebrate the work of the Society with a selection of awards and speeches over the course of the night.
Join us for a night to a remember in the elegant Goulburn Suite, whilst enjoying some of the finest local produce in Manchester.
To secure your place to this exclusive event, tickets are available at £65.00 + VAT
There are limited number of places so book now to avoid missing out.
[BSSS reserve the right to deny registration or entry to the Gala Dinner if the correct protocol is not followed.]