Upcoming events

    • 23 July 2025
    • 12:00 PM - 1:00 PM
    • Online

    We are pleased to announce the next Zoom into Soil webinar will take place on Wednesday 23 July from 12-1pm (UK time) and is free of charge to register. Join professionals from BSSS Corporate Member, Arcadis, and also Lancaster University as they discuss soils in planning and construction.

    In this webinar, Dr Bruce Lascelles and Dr Jess Potts from Arcadis and Prof Jess Davies and Prof John Quinton from Lancaster University discuss the reality of how soils are accounted for in planning and construction and the change that is needed in local planning policy to ensure that soils do not continue to be overlooked and to ensure their critical role in our sustainable future is recognised and delivered.

    The webinar includes one hour BASIS and NRoSO CPD points.

    We look forward to welcoming you on the webinar.

    You can register for free at https://attendee.gotowebinar.com/register/6169781304487065180

    • 02 September 2025
    • 03 September 2025
    Elementar is holding a user meeting for elemental, environmental and water analysis on 2-3 September in Manchester. This event will provide an opportunity to learn more about the field of elemental analysis from expert operators, and to improve your understanding of your elemental analyzer. 

    We want to provide a space to foster new ideas and share best analytical practices, to assist with optimising instrument performance, data quality and instrument lifetime. 

    The event will be split across two days with the following areas of focus for each: 

    • Tuesday 2nd September - elemental analysis 
    • Wednesday 3rd September - environmental and water analysis (TOC) 

    You can attend either one or both days, depending on your interests. The event is free and open to anyone who uses or might use elemental or TOC analyzers, but is only available for a limited number of participants. 

    Early-career researchers, students and users from under-represented groups are encouraged to attend. 

    The full programme will be available soon, and will include presentations from expert users, and from our team of specialists and engineers. Attendees will receive a CPD certificate for their attendance.

    To find out more, click here


    • 08 September 2025
    • 12 September 2025
    • Seville, Spain

    The EUROSOIL is the official meeting of the European Confederation of Soil Science Societies (ECSSS), it is among Europe’s most important Soil Sciences events and offers a fantastic opportunity for knowledge transfer among the Soil Sciences community.

    The EUROSOIL is held every four years and attracts a large audience of over 2500 participants who present their findings through oral and poster presentations across up to 10 parallel sessions.

    The event also features workshops and an exhibition of products and services aimed at raising awareness in society, facilitating the exchange of ideas and information and creating business opportunities. 

    Tickets and Abstract Submissions are now open. 

    Learn More: https://www.eurosoil2025.eu/EUROSOIL2025

    • 11 September 2025
    • 10:00 AM - 3:30 PM
    • Henfaes Agricultural Research Station, Abergwyngregyn, North Wales, LL33 0LB
    • 19
    Register

    WSDG Annual Meeting – Thursday 11 September at Henfaes Research Centre

    The Welsh Soil Discussion Group (WSDG) is holding their Annual Meeting on Thursday 11 September in Bangor, which is open to members and non-members. 

    The event will be taking place at Henfaes Agricultural Research Station, Abergwyngregyn, North Wales. Join us for a day of networking and discussion while learning about current research and facilities at Bangor University’s research farm!

    The event will run from 10:00 – 15:30, and lunch and refreshments will be provided throughout the day. Attendees can either meet at the research station (maps will be provided) or a shuttle bus will depart from Bangor at 09:30.

    The agenda will include a welcome from the research farm manager, followed by tour of current field experiments (topics to include sustainable potato production, agronomic and environmental impacts of slurry separation, the impact of agricultural microplastics and biochar application to soils). Following lunch, there will be tours of the glasshouses, laboratories and new developments on site, with plenty more topics covered. The afternoon will also include a discussion session, with opportunities to help shape the future of the Welsh Soil Discussion Group.

    We hope you can join us – please sign up by 8 September at the latest so that we can finalise numbers for catering.

    Food and drink will be provided. [Please ensure to outline any dietary or accessibility requirements on the registration form]

    Please note accommodation in Bangor is limited, we would recommend the Management Centre if looking to stay in Bangor, there is also a Premier Inn and a Travelodge on the outskirts of Bangor – but these would be more suitable if you have your own transportation.

    ----------------------------------

    If you have booked but would like to cancel for whatever reason, please refer to our Cancellation Policy.



    • 16 September 2025
    • 9:00 AM
    • 17 September 2025
    • 5:00 PM
    • Online
    • 12
    Register

    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:

    1. An understanding of the strengths and weakness of soil classification and why it is linked to soil mapping.
    2. An understanding of the structure of different classifications used in the UK and why they differ.
    3. An understanding of the two systems used at the global level and why the FAO / IUSS World Reference Base (WRB) is most appropriate to correlate soils at the global level.
    4. The ability and tools to identify the local WRB soil type in the field.
    5. Knowledge of the different abilities of WRB UK soil types to support beneficial soil functions.

    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.

    ----------------------------------

    If you have booked but would like to cancel for whatever reason, please refer to our Cancellation Policy.


    • 17 September 2025
    • 9:30 AM
    • 18 September 2025
    • 4:30 PM
    • NEC, Birmingham

    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? 

    • Discover your next solution: Explore cutting-edge innovations, initiatives, technology and solutions in brownfield regeneration, greenfield development and more. 
    • Expert-Led Conferences: Gain valuable insights from keynote sessions, seminars, and workshops designed to address industry challenges and provide actionable insights. 
    • Unparalleled Networking: Connect with peers, suppliers, consultants, and decision-makers driving land development forward across diverse sectors. Create powerful new partnerships to take your business to new heights. 
    • Comprehensive Solutions: Access a one-stop platform for brownfield regeneration and greenfield development, offering everything from advanced technologies to actionable strategies. 

    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: 

    • RWM - Resource & Waste Management Expo 
    • CLR - Contamination & Land Remediation Expo 
    • GEO - Geotechnical Engineering and Operations Expo (New for 2025) 
    • EFD - Energy, Fuels & Decarbonisation Expo 
    • WWEM - Water, Wastewater & Environmental Management Expo 
    • AQE - Air Quality & Emissions Expo 
    • CARS & MRE - Complete Auto Recycling Show & Metals Recycling Event (Co-located with ESS for the first time) 

    Find out more: https://hubs.la/Q03s8Jp40

    Or register your interest: https://hubs.la/Q03s8JYr0


    • 15 October 2025
    • 9:00 AM
    • 16 October 2025
    • 5:30 PM
    • Lancaster University
    • 14
    Register

    A Practical Introduction to the Role of Soils in Catchment Management

    [Lancaster University]

    This course covers two days and is targeted at people who want to improve their understanding of the role of soil in managing river quality and quantity. It includes introductory presentations on identifying key features of the soil, factors affecting water storage and run-off, identifying areas at risk of erosion, compaction and runoff, identifying key resources to help assess risks to water quality and quantity as well as field visits to demonstrate a range of soil management practices and mitigation measures.

    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.

    You will leave the course having gained:

    1. An understanding of the nature of soils and the pathways of water movement through them following the HOST classification.
    2. Ability to assess topsoil and sub soil structure following practical methods.
    3. The ability to assess a correct soil management strategy and associated mitigations to reduce soil runoff and erosion.
    4. The ability to remotely undertake a pre- field assessment for example by using the NVZ (Nitrate Vulnerable Zone) map tool and A.L.E.R.T (Agricultural Land Environmental Risk and Opportunity Tool) tool and other online resources.
    5. Knowledge of key published, unpublished and digital information sources on UK soils. 

    The course will provide you with the sound foundation you need to assess the interactions between soils and river flows and water quality.

    Learning outcomes

    1. A better knowledge and understanding of the key soil properties that affect water quality, and how different management strategies can reduce runoff, compaction and erosion risks.
    2. A better knowledge and understanding of how to undertake a field investigation. 
    3. The ability to evaluate topsoil and subsoil structure and porosity in relation to water movement in the field. 
    4. Understanding of mitigation measures in the catchment to reduce risks to water quality and quantity.

    Food and drink will be provided. (Please specify any dietary requirements under the relevant section in the registration form.)

    ----------------------------------

    If you have booked but would like to cancel for whatever reason, please refer to our Cancellation Policy.


    • 29 October 2025
    • 9:00 AM
    • 30 October 2025
    • 5:30 PM
    • Shuttleworth College, Bedfordshire
    • 18
    Register

    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:

    1. An understanding of the nature of soils and how they develop,
    2. The ability to produce a comprehensive soil profile description including the horizons (topsoil and subsoil layers) and properties of the soil profile according to the nationally recognised Soil Survey Field Handbook.
    3. An understanding of the structure of the national soil classification.
    4. Knowledge of the key diagnostic topsoil and subsoil horizons types that are used to identify different soil classes.
    5. Knowledge of key published, unpublished and digital information sources on UK soils.

    The course will provide you with the sound foundation you need to progress to becoming a confident field soil practitioner.

    Food and drink will be provided. (Please specify any dietary requirements under the relevant section in the registration form.)

    ----------------------------------

    If you have booked but would like to cancel for whatever reason, please refer to our Cancellation Policy.


    • 12 November 2025
    • 9:00 AM
    • 13 November 2025
    • 5:00 PM
    • Cranfield University
    • 17
    Register

    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:

    • how the ALC system has developed over time, its underlying principles and its role within the planning system – the WHAT, WHY and WHEN of ALC 
    • all the details of how land is graded – the HOW of ALC 
    • what a report should contain to be verified by the Natural England and Welsh Government statutory consultees on planning applications involving soils and agriculture. 

    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.


    • 01 December 2025
    • 9:00 AM
    • 02 December 2025
    • 5:00 PM
    • King's House Conference Centre, Manchester, UK
    • 75
    Register

    [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:

    1. Soils for People
    2. Soils for Climate
    3. Soils for Water
    4. Advances for Soils
    5. Soils for Life

    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.


    • 03 December 2025
    • 9:00 AM
    • 05 December 2025
    • 2:00 PM
    • King's House Conference Centre, Manchester, UK
    • 197
    Register

    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.

    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:

    1. Soils for People
    2. Soils for Climate
    3. Soils for Water
    4. Advances for Soils
    5. Soils for Life

    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: 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:

    • The role of soil in climate adaptation, flood mitigation, land remediation and biodiversity
    • The policy landscape surrounding soil protection and land use
    • The latest research and innovations supporting long-term soil resilience

    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.

    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.


    • 03 December 2025
    • 7:30 PM - 11:59 PM
    • Manchester Hall
    • 100
    Register

    [The Gala Dinner is part of the BSSS Annual Conference.]

    There will be a Gala Dinner on the first day of the Annual Conference on Wednesday 3 December from 7:30pm - 12am which will be held at Manchester Hall

    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.]