IE GSI Hydrostratigraphic Rock Unit Groups 100k Ireland (ROI) ITM View

The Hydrostratigraphic Rock Unit Groups map is a simplified version of the Bedrock Geology map. It is created because not all of the properties of the rocks that are used to create the Bedrock Geology map are needed to help to understand how groundwater flows through the rocks, which rocks produce particular groundwater chemistries, or which rocks are best at conducting or storing heat.

Groundwater is the water that soaks into the ground from rain and can be stored beneath the ground. An aquifer is a body of rock and/or sediment that holds groundwater. The Hydrostratigraphic Rock Unit Groups map is used to determine aquifer classes.

Aquifer maps help us locate groundwater resources which can be used to supply drinking water. Knowing where and in what amounts groundwater can be found is important. It helps us plan where water supplies for communities and towns can be developed. The data can also help to protect drinking water. Rock properties and structures such as faults impact how water and/or pollutants move below the surface. Drinking water can be protected by locating potential polluting operations, such as landfills, away from groundwater.

Geothermal energy is the energy stored in the form of heat beneath the surface of the earth. It can be used to supply heat and hot water. It can also be used to cool a house by removing surplus heat energy and putting it into the ground. Aquifer maps along with subsoil and bedrock maps are used to help decide if the ground under a site is suitable for geothermal energy extraction.