An Introduction to Soil Classification
[Online Course]
This course is held over two days, and is aimed at researchers and others who want to gain a perspective of how their local field experimental sites and their results fit into the current picture of soil variation at UK and, in particular global scales. It includes introductory, technical and practical online sessions.
It is important that all delegates who wish to attend the course should be well versed in soil profile description, e.g. using the Soil Survey Field Handbook or have attended one of the BSSS ‘Practical Introduction to Soils in Great Britain’ training courses.
Delegates will receive a comprehensive course manual detailing the techniques for classifying soil types using a global classification system, copies of the Soil Survey Field Manual, and The Fragile Skin: Soil Landscapes of the UK, a X10 hand lens for magnifying soil features and soil classification recording cards for your future use.
The course is designed to give delegates:
It will provide the sound foundation you need to place the information gained from your local field studies or trials in their national and global contexts.
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If you have booked but would like to cancel for whatever reason, please refer to our Cancellation Policy.
The Contamination and Land Remediation Expo (CLR Expo) returns in 2025 as the premier event for professionals across the geoenvironmental sectors. Whether you're a contractor, environmental consultant, engineer, policy maker or an industry newcomer, CLR offers the perfect platform to connect with global innovators, discover the latest trends, and source groundbreaking solutions for sustainable land development.
With over 3,000 attendees in 2024, CLR 2025 is set to be bigger and better than ever, featuring cutting-edge solutions, live demonstrations, expert-led sessions, lucrative investment opportunities, and crucial insights to elevate your operation.
Why Attend CLR 2025?
CLR is part of the Environmental Services & Solutions Expo (ESS), the UK’s largest event dedicated to environmental services and technology. The Expo unites eight co-located shows, and one free ticket provides attendees with a unique, comprehensive platform to explore the latest advancements in resource, waste, land, water, energy, air quality, and everything in between:
Find out more: https://hubs.la/Q03s8Jp40
Or register your interest: https://hubs.la/Q03s8JYr0
Discover What the National Brownfield Institute Can Offer Your Organisation
Open Day | Wednesday 17 September 2025 10.00 – 15.00
Whether you’re in property, construction, local government, education, health, technology, manufacturing – or any sector looking for cutting-edge spaces and collaborative opportunities – the National Brownfield Institute (NBI) welcomes you to its Open Day.
For more information, visit: https://nbiopenday.eventbrite.co.uk
The NBI supports businesses and organisations of all sizes across a wide range of sectors. While its mission includes advancing brownfield regeneration and sustainability within the build environment, its state-of-the-art facilities and expert services are available to any business seeking innovation, technical expertise, or versatile meeting and event spaces.
What to Expect on the Day
This is your opportunity to explore how the NBI can support your organisation’s innovation goals – whether through partnerships, space hire, or accessing technical expertise.
Location: National Brownfield Institute, University of Wolverhampton Springfield Campus
The National Brownfield Institute is in a convenient location close to main public transport links with plenty of free on-site car parking and electric car charging stations. Close to the heart of the City of Wolverhampton based on the University of Wolverhampton Springfield Campus it is in easy walking distance of the main Wolverhampton railway, bus and tram stations.
Free to attend: registration essential (For further details please visit the Eventbrite page using this link https://nbiopenday.eventbrite.co.uk)
Refreshments: Provided free throughout the event
SSDG Online Meeting – Monday 6 October (Online)
The Scottish Soil Discussion Group (SSDG) is holding an online webinar and discussion event which is free to register for members and non-members. The discussion event will take place on Monday 6 October from 11:00am-12:30pm (UK Time). We have three great speakers and there will be chance for networking and discussion following the presentations.
Sarah Buckingham, current fellow in Scottish Government, will present an overview of the Soil Route Map for Scotland. Clive Mitchell, Head of Terrestrial Science at Nature Scot will discuss soils as a key factor in reducing vulnerability to climate risks and Karen Dobbie, principal soil scientist at SEPA, will then discuss the use of soils data within SEPA. We will then have a time for a discussion about the translation of soils data and research for a wider audience within Scotland.
IFST Autumn Conference 2025 (AC25) - Feeding the Future: Resilience Across the Food System
Date: 7 October 2025 Time: 09:30–16:30
Location: East Midlands Conference Centre, University Park, Beeston Lane, Nottingham NG7 2RJ Pre-conference networking dinner: 6 October 2025
For more information, click here
The Institute of Food Science and Technology (IFST) is hosting their Autumn Conference in Nottingham in October. It is the Institute’s flagship annual event, bringing together over 200 leaders, innovators, and experts from across the food system.
Delegates will engage with a dynamic programme of practical presentations, expert panels, and thought-provoking discussions designed to address the challenges and opportunities facing food professionals today. From climate change and sustainable farming to AI-driven innovation and biosecurity, the conference will offer insights that are both timely and actionable.
The event is designed to foster collaboration across industry, academia, and policy, offering a unique platform for knowledge exchange and professional networking. A pre-conference dinner and networking evening on Monday 6 October will provide additional opportunities to connect with peers and speakers in a relaxed setting.
Whether you are a scientist, technologist, policymaker, or student, the IFST Autumn Conference 2025 is your opportunity to be part of the conversation shaping the future of food.
Early-bird ticket sales end on 14 August - don't miss out!
A Practical Introduction to the Role of Soils in Catchment Management
[Lancaster University]
This hands-on, two-day course is designed to fill key knowledge and skills gaps in the application of soil science for improving water quality and quantity outcomes.
Through a mix of presentations, fieldwork, and guided practice, participants will learn to move beyond problem diagnosis and towards practical, field-ready solutions that support landowners and farmers in implementing effective soil and water management strategies.
You will be given a comprehensive course manual that details description techniques, copies of the Soil Survey Field Manual, a X10 hand lens for magnifying soil features and soil recording cards for you to use into the future.
What You Will Learn
By the End of This Course, You Will Be Able To:
Food and drink will be provided. (Please specify any dietary requirements under the relevant section in the registration form.)
The future of sustainable soil management in construction
Thursday 23 October 2025, 10:00 – 13:00
Join this virtual conference from CIRIA on sustainable soil management for construction projects.
Background Most construction projects generate surplus soil. There is general industry consensus that soil is a valuable asset which supports a wide range of ecosystem services. However, managing soil sustainably can be difficult and expensive. Several consultation papers on environmental policy, regulations, and taxes have been published recently outlining the government’s vision and commitment to improving the environment. Although these papers don’t all explicitly mention soil, soil will inevitably play a key role in helping the government achieve its environmental targets. The proposed changes in planning, biodiversity net gain, brownfield redevelopment regulations, and policy will also create challenges and opportunities in soil management practice. Construction professionals therefore need to be informed and prepared for these changes to manage soil in their projects more sustainably. This event will explore the soil-related issues that practitioners have, how the industry thinks recent proposed government changes in environmental policy and regulations are likely to affect the way they manage soil, and how they can manage soil more sustainably in the future.
To learn more, visit: https://www.ciria.org/CIRIA/Navigation/Events/Event_Display.aspx?EventKey=E25115
A Practical Introduction to Soils in Great Britain
[Shuttleworth College, Bedfordshire]
This course covers two days and is targeted at people who want to improve their field soil description and identification skills. It includes introductory presentations, practical sessions on soil description techniques and then field visits to demonstrate a range of soil types and to hone your profile description skills.
You will be given a comprehensive course manual that details description techniques, copies of the Soil Survey Field Manual, and The Fragile Skin: Soil Landscapes of the UK, a X10 hand lens for magnifying soil features and soil recording cards for you to use into the future.
You will leave the course having gained:
The course will provide you with the sound foundation you need to progress to becoming a confident field soil practitioner.
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.
[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 will be released in due course. 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: 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 Goulburne 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.]