AWN Consulting was appointed by Gaelectric Developments to undertake soils and water assessments (incorporating geology, hydrology and hydrogeology) for numerous proposed wind farm developments in Northern Ireland. These were as follows:

· Inishative, Omagh, Co. Tyrone: 6 turbines (13.8MW)

· Corby Knowe, Kells, Co. Antrim: 3 turbines (5.4MW)

· Carn Hill, Rea Hill, Co. Antrim: 6 turbines (13.8MW)

· Cregganconroe, Pomeroy, Co. Tyrone: 5 turbines (12MW)

· Crockbrack, Pomeroy, Co. Tyrone: 1 turbine (2.3MW)

· Dunbeg, Limavady, Co. Derry: 14 turbines (42MW)

AWN carried out peat stability risk assessments at proposed wind farm developments. Peat probe surveys are undertaken at each turbine location and at intervals between each turbine. The peat depth was recorded using a Peat Gouge Auger (PGA). A Qualitative Peat Slide Risk Assessment was then prepared, based on the findings of the survey. The assessment is based on the principle that peat stability is dependent on its depth, water content, strength and integrity of the overlying vegetation, in addition to the slope at its location.

Wind farm development planning applications typically require provision of an Environmental Impact Statement (EIS). One of the requirements of this EIS is to conduct a comprehensive evaluation of the impacts of the project on the surrounding geological and water environment. AWN Consulting conducted the assessments in compliance with the relevant best practice and guidelines. Each site was assessed using the following methodology:

· Desktop study of publications relevant to the study area;

· Consultation with key parties e.g. Geological Survey of Northern Ireland and Rivers Agency, to ensure their relevant key geological, hydrological and hydrogeological issues are addressed within the assessment;

· A walkover survey of the site;

· Peat probe survey;

· Water sampling on site (if necessary);

· Assessment of development impacts and appropriate mitigation measures relevant to the proposed construction, operation and decommissioning of the wind farm on the local geological, hydrological/ hydrogeological regime, and;

· Reporting of findings.