05 October 2022
Below ground: soil life in a changing climate
Below ground: soil life in a changing climate, Art-science exhibition at the Irish Agricultural Museum, Johnstown Castle
Taking place until the 6th November in The Irish Agricultural Museum, Johnstown Castle Estate, Co. Wexford, Y35 HP22
What goes on below our feet? A bustling community of plant roots, tiny animals, and microbes underpin our way of life – bringing us food, cleaning water, and regulating our climate. How are vibrant soil communities affected by climate change? How will it affect us? The life and wonder of soil is always with us, but rarely seen. Join us on a journey of discovery below ground!
Featuring the artwork of: Cathy Reddy, Eileen Hutton, Frank Ashwood, Giulia Canevari, Hanneke van Ryswyk, Wim van Egmond, and more!
This exhibition is free for members to visit and included in daily admission for all visitors to Johnstown Castle.
This event is made possible thanks to support from Teagasc, Science Foundation Ireland, and the British Ecological Society. It is part of the Festival of Farming and Food (Science Week).
About Soil
Soil is the medium that we work with every day in the production of meat, milk, grain etc for both local and world markets. The health of our soil is a key component for the efficient production of food in an environmental and sustainable manner. To maximise the productivity of our soil it’s important that we understand the chemical, physical and biological properties of the soil.
Guylain Grange, a Teagasc Walsh Scholar PhD candidate at Teagasc Environment Research Centre, Johnstown Castle, Co. Wexford, talks about how plant biodiversity can help improve our soils.
Soils are home to a staggering abundance and diversity of living organisms that are integral to the health and productivity of our farming systems. Dr Fiona Brennan, Teagasc Johnstown Castle, Co. Wexford aims to assess the impact of management options on soil biodiversity in Irish grasslands