Acid sulfate soils (ASS) occur predominantly on coastal lowlands with elevations generally below 5m AHD. The exposure of ASS to oxygen by drainage, excavation or filling results in the production of sulphuric acid and the mobilisation of aluminium, iron and other heavy metals. The acid can corrode concrete and steel infrastructure, whilst the acidic leachate and heavy metals can be highly toxic to aquatic organisms and native vegetation. ADG’s Environmental Scientists have over 15 years’ experience in the assessment and management of ASS.
Our services include:
- Preliminary investigations to assess general parameters such as earthworks and groundwater issues, and to ascertain the potential for ASS disturbance. Field screening for soil and water indicators, and selection of the appropriate sampling regime.
- Detailed investigations including the design of soil, surface and groundwater sampling and analytical programs to identify the spatial distribution of actual acid sulfate soils (AASS) and potential acid sulfate soils (PASS).
- Acid Sulfate Soil Management Plans for large and small scale earthworks operations.
- Validation during bulk excavation, including earthworks supervision, validation sampling and the preparation of Site Validation Reports.