Major geological survey takes off in westmeath longford and roscommon

• Tellus North Midland aircraft begins its first flight on Friday September 19 

• Livestock owners alerted to potential impact of low-flying aircraft

The airborne phase of a major geological survey, Tellus North Midlands, begins on Friday September 19 in Westmeath, Longford and Roscommon.

Two small aircraft will survey these counties over the next three months (weather permitting). The aircraft, which will be based at Knock Airport, will fly at an altitude of 90 metres (approximately 11 times the height of a two-storey house) over rural areas and to 240 metres over towns and more densely populated areas.

Due to the low flying altitude of the aircraft, the Tellus North Midlands project, which is being conducted by the Geological Survey of Ireland (GSI) and is government funded by the Department of Communications, Energy and Natural Resources, is asking livestock owners to get in touch if they have any concerns.

Ray Scanlon, principal geologist at the Geological Survey of Ireland, said: “Tellus North Midlands is working in full co-operation with the Irish Aviation Authority and the flight plans are strictly regulated. The sound of the plane overhead is similar to that of a passing lorry and could disturb sensitive livestock such as horses, poultry, pedigree cattle and deer if they are outdoors.

“We are therefore keen for any animal owners or concerned parties to contact us as soon as possible so we can discuss any issues and together take action if necessary.”

If you are have any questions or concerns about the Tellus North Midlands survey, particularly if you own sensitive livestock, you can contact our Freephone information line on 1800 303 516 or visit www.tellus.ie.

The aircraft will begin flying east to west in long lines covering Counties Westmeath, Longford and Roscommon, and then concentrate on large lakes including Lough Ree, Ennel and Owel, to ensure the flight path does not coincide with migrating birds.

The survey will play a vital role in the collection and analysis of scientific data on soils and rocks. Ultimately the survey data collected will be made freely available to members of the public and the information gathered could be used to enable better environmental management, enhance agricultural productivity and better assess radon risk – all highly relevant in terms economic and environmental impact.

• ‘Tellus’ was the Roman goddess of the earth, also called Terra Mater.