The Burdon Network & Burdon Fund

Burdon Network Website

An important aspect of the international dimension of the IAH has been to encourage contact and if required, provide assistance to hydrogeologists in countries without high incomes.  One such means of realising this is through the Burdon Network (formerly Burdon Commission), which was established in 1989 as an "International Commission on Hydrogeology in Developing Nations".  It was named in memory of David Burdon, the first President of the Irish Group, in view of his long time interest in developing countries.

A pilot scheme has been established with Concern, where one or two nominated Irish or European hydrogeologists can work with this NGO, advising them on project specific issues by email or by voluntary time if necessary.

In memory of our first president, a guest speaker is invited on an annual basis by IAH Irish Chapter to give the David Burdon Mermorial Lecture on a topic of current interest.

The Burdon Fund was simultaneously established to help promote hydrogeological training and practice in developing nations.  The fund is administered by the Chairman of the Network, the President of the International Association, and the President of the Irish Group.  It was envisaged that the primary source of funds would be a proportion of surplus from IAH congresses, contributions to the fund have come from eight national chapters over the years.