The British Society of Soil Science (BSSS) continues to run the Agricultural Land Classification (ALC) Course, taking place over two days in November.
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. The training course, designed and presented by agricultural land classification (ALC) experts from Natural England and the Welsh Government, offers a unique opportunity to learn about the background and technical basis of the current ALC guidelines.
By the end of the course, delegates will learn:
- about 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 for delegates to work within a group to undertake an ALC grading desk exercise to apply what they 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.
Past-President of the British Society of Soil Science, Dr Bruce Lascelles, said “The Agricultural Land Classification system is the means we have to assess the quality of agricultural land and as such is a critical component in the assessment of project impacts on this important receptor. Impacts on our agricultural land is a huge issue for so many sectors and accurate data can help minimise this through avoidance of the best and most versatile land. The BSSS course is a fantastic opportunity to learn from trusted experts and enhance your knowledge on this important system”.
