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 and pedological maps. It requires a concrete interpretation of the information available on the maps so that the student can characterize the physical environment.
This concrete interpretation includes taking into account concepts explained in the theoretical course, practical cases presented in the courses and during practical work as well as concepts observed during the field excursion.
The exam consists of two parts: hydrogeology and pedology, each counting for 50% of the final mark.
The hydrogeology part is evaluated as follows:
The pedology part is evaluated as follows:
In case of score < 10/20 for one of the parts, the failed score is absorbing and implies a maximum of 9/20 for the total score.
Success in a part implies a partial exemption for a later session (no obligation to retake the successful part).
Attendance at the practical work and the field day is mandatory.
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 Geography : General | Standard | 3 | 4 | |
| Bachelor in Geology | Standard | 3 | 4 |