OPEN BASIS Soil and Water Course 2026

• Those working as advisers, representatives, farmers and farm managers involved in arable crop production and management
• Those who wish to pass the BASIS examination leading to a certificate in Soil and Water Management

• Appreciate the principles governing the maintenance of soil organic matter contents, maintenance of good soil structure and methods for the prevention of water and wind erosion
• Appreciate the legal requirements for the protection of soil and the maintenance of soil health
• Appreciate the mechanics, economics and environmental aspects of cultivation
• Appreciate the relationships between soil and water management to enable best use of land and minimisation of diffuse pollution
• Understand the role of plant nutrients in crop production and their application, all with due regard for environmental protection
• Understand the advantages, risks and legal aspects of the application of farm manures and other organic manure products to land

What does the course teach?

• Soil protection and soil health
• Prevention of water and wind erosion
• Mechanics, economics and environmental aspects of cultivation
• Soil physical properties – texture and structure
• Soil organic matter
• Soil water properties
• Drainage and irrigation
• Plant macro/micronutrients and fertiliser planning
• Manures and soil organic inputs to enhance crop growth and their effects on diffuse pollution