The geology and environment course aims to raise students' awareness on management and protection issues of groundwaters and soils. The course is included in a reflection on sustainable development.
To provide the vocabulary and basic notions of hydrology and hydrogeology (water resources) and pedology (soil resources and evolution) enabling geologists and geographers to discuss with specialists.
The course is subdivided into two parts:
Hydrogeology (10 hours): - Introduction - Calculation of the hydrogeological balance (estimate of water resources) - Concepts of hydrogeology - Methods for studying aquifers - Protection of water catchments and aquifers
Pedology (10h) - Introduction/awareness - Soil constituents - Soil properties - Soil in the ecosystem - Migration phenomena - Soil profiles - Soil geography - Soil degradation - Soil map
The course gives the basic theoretical notions. It is illustrated by numerous practical examples. The practical exercises are based on the interpretation of different geological, hydrogeological and pedological maps. At the end of the course, the student must be able to characterise the physical environment in order to deduce the risks in terms of protection or exploitation of natural resources (mainly water and soil).
The course provides basic theoretical notions in hydrogeology and pedology. It is illustrated by several practical examples.
The practical work is based on the interpretation of different geological, hydrogeological (hydrogeological maps of Wallonia) and pedological maps (interpretation of the Belgian Soil Map, geomatic use of "soil" data available on the Wallonia Geoportal).
A one-day field excursion allowing field observation of the concepts presented during the course and practical work. This excursion takes place on a Saturday (full day).
At the end of the course, the student must be able to characterize the physical environment in order to deduce the risks in terms of protection or exploitation of natural resources (mainly water and soil).
The examination is based on the interpretation of geological, hydrogeological or soil maps. It requires a concrete interpretation of the information available on the map so the student can characterise the physical environment.
Fetter C., 2001. Applied hydrogeology. Prentice Hall Ed. ISBN 0-13-088239-9. Pipkin B., Trennt D., Hazlett R., Geology and the environment. Thomson Ed.isbn 0-534-49051-4
Castany G., 1998. Hydrogeology. Principles and methods. DUNOD. ISBN 2-10-004171-1
| Training | Study programme | Block | Credits | Mandatory |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Bachelor in Geography : General | Standard | 0 | 4 | |
| Bachelor in Geology | Standard | 0 | 4 | |
| Bachelor in Geology | Standard | 3 | 4 | |
| Bachelor in Geography : General | Standard | 3 | 4 |