Acid Sulfate Soils
Effective Management Strategies
If the assessment indicates the presence of acid sulfate soils, Caldera Environmental develops a tailored Acid Sulfate Soils Management Plan (ASSMP). This plan outlines strategies to mitigate the risks associated with acid sulfate soils, ensuring both on-site and off-site impacts are managed effectively. Our management strategies include:
Providing guidance for excavation and placement of acid sulfate soils on treatment pads.
Application of lime to neutralise acidity.
Validation of acid sulfate soils treatment.
Safe transportation and disposal of acid sulfate soils.
Treatment of acidic surface water and groundwater to prevent environmental harm.
Validation and Ongoing Monitoring
Validation is a critical component of our management process, ensuring that the measures outlined in the ASSMP are effective. During and after construction, our consultants collect soil and water samples to verify that the treatment criteria, such as liming rates and water discharge pH levels, are met. This ongoing monitoring helps identify any need for additional treatment and ensures compliance with environmental regulations.
The Importance of Professional Expertise
Engaging experienced and knowledgeable environmental consultants is essential for the successful management of acid sulfate soils. Caldera Environmental’s team brings a wealth of expertise, staying current with the latest scientific research and regulatory requirements. Our commitment to excellence ensures that we provide effective, sustainable, and compliant solutions for managing ASS, protecting both human health and the environment.
Caldera Environmental provides in-depth expertise in the assessment and management of acid sulfate soils. Our team specialises in identifying, characterising, managing and treating acid sulfate soils. Additionally, we offer guidance on potential acid sulfate effects on surface and groundwater resulting from changes in groundwater flow, dewatering activities and the migration of acid leachate during site disturbances.
Caldera Environmental has extensive experience in investigating and assessing Acid Sulfate Soils across a variety of development contexts, from urban sites to large-scale industrial projects. Our team has successfully carried out numerous ASS assessments and tackled challenging conditions such as low-lying areas and in situ excavations (basement carparks, pools, high rise developments, etc).
Understanding Acid Sulfate Soils
acid sulfate soils are soils or sediments that contain iron sulfides, which, when exposed to air due to excavation or drainage, can oxidise and produce sulfuric acid. This acidification can lead to severe environmental impacts, including the mobilisation of heavy metals and the degradation of water quality.
These soils are commonly found in coastal regions, particularly in areas with a history of tidal influence and organic-rich sediments. When disturbed, the resulting acid runoff can significantly affect stormwater, groundwater, and aquatic ecosystems, altering pH levels and increasing metal concentrations, which can harm flora and fauna.
Comprehensive Acid Sulfate Soils Assessment
Local councils often require an acid sulfate soils assessment as part of the development application process, especially in areas identified as having a high risk of acid sulfate soils. Caldera Environmental’s approach begins with a detailed desktop study, reviewing existing soil maps (Council LEPs) and evaluating the proposed development's potential impacts on soil and groundwater.
Our team then conducts thorough field investigations, using specialised drilling equipment to collect soil samples at various depths. Groundwater monitoring wells are installed to assess the potential for acid leachate migration. These samples undergo initial in-field screening followed by detailed laboratory analysis to determine the presence and concentration of sulfides.
Acid Sulfate Soils
Services Include:
Acid Sulfate Soils site based assessment
Drilling for Acid Sulfate Soils
Laboratory analysis
In field pH screening
Acid Sulfate Soils Management Plans (ASSMP)
Acid Sulfate Soils treatment and site based management
Post treatment validation
Offsite Acid Sulfate Soil disposal (treated and non-treated)
Groundwater pH correction
Geotechnical