Management Plans
Acid Sulfate Soil Management Plans
Acid sulfate soils (ASS) are naturally occurring soils and sediments rich in iron sulfides. When exposed to air through to activities like excavation or drainage, these sulfides oxidise, producing sulfuric acid.
This acidification can cause environmental degradation, water contamination and structural damage. In turn, these damages can lead to project delays, financial punishment and may even require costly remediation works.
To mitigate these risks, implementing a comprehensive Acid Sulfate Soil Management Plan (ASSMP) is essential. An ASSMP helps you protect the integrity of your site and its surrounding environment and also acts as proof of compliance when reporting to the Department of Water and Environmental Regulation (DWER).
At West Soil & Water, we specialise in crafting tailored ASSMPs that ensure safe and sustainable development across WA.
Who Needs a Management Plan?
An ASSMP is necessary for any project that may disturb ASS, especially in areas identified as having a moderate to high risk of ASS occurrence. In Western Australia, the DWER mandates an ASSMP for developments involving:
Dewatering or Drainage Activities: Projects proposing temporary or permanent dewatering or drainage works.
Significant Soil Excavation: Projects involving the excavation of 100 cubic meters or more of soil (approximately 10 standard dump truck loads).
It is important to note that the Western Australian Planning Commission’s guidelines emphasise the importance of addressing ASS at various planning stages to prevent adverse environmental impacts.
You can read more about whether your site will need an ASSMP in our article ‘Who Needs an ASSMP?’.
How West Soil & Water Constructs a Soil Management Plan
At WSW, we follow a carefully considered process to develop robust and effective ASSMPs:
Comprehensive Site Assessment: We conduct detailed investigations to identify the presence and extent of ASS on your site. This includes soil sampling and analysis to determine existing and potential acidity levels, providing a foundation for effective management strategies.
Risk Evaluation: Assessing the potential environmental impacts of disturbing ASS, we consider factors such as soil composition, hydrology and proposed construction activities. This assessment informs the development of targeted mitigation measures.
Customised Management Strategies: Based on our assessments, we formulate practical and auditable management strategies, including:
Prevention Measures: Designing project plans to avoid or minimise ASS disturbance, thereby reducing the risk of acidification.
Neutralisation Techniques: Specifying the use of appropriate neutralising agents with precise application rates based on soil acidity levels.
Water Management: Implementing controlled drainage and maintaining appropriate water tables to prevent sulfide oxidation.
Monitoring and Reporting Protocols: We establish comprehensive monitoring programs to track soil and water quality throughout the project’s lifecycle. Regular reporting ensures that management measures are effective and allows for timely adjustments if necessary.
Regulatory Compliance: Our ASSMPs are designed to meet all regulatory requirements set by DWER, ensuring your project complies with local laws and guidelines. Submitting this plan and any subsequent updates or reviews will act as suitable proof of compliance.
You can read more about our process in our article ‘How WSW Creates ASSMPs in WA’.
West Soil and Water: Leaders in Soil Management in Western Australia
Engaging experienced environmental consultants like West Soil & Water is essential for effective ASS management. We have an expert understanding of acid sulfate soils and how they interact with WA’s unique environmental conditions.
That expertise ensures that all regulatory requirements are met and that environmental impacts are minimised, promoting sustainable development practices across the state.
For more information or to discuss how we can assist with your ASSMP, please contact WSW at sam@westsoilandwater.com.au or on 0424 021 264.
Learn More About Acid Sulfate Soils
We have published a host of articles to help you make informed decisions about managing ASS occurrences on your site. You can read more about:
Acid Sulfate Soils
What are ASS? The Causes of Soil Acidity and How to Approach Them
The Cost of ASS Mismanagement: Avoiding Expensive Remediation Projects
ASS and Soil Degradation: Preventing Long-Term Environmental Damage
How to Identify Acid Sulfate Soils Before Breaking Ground
How Acid Sulfate Soils Affect Perth’s Groundwater
ASSMPs
Who Needs an ASSMP?
Monitoring and Reporting for ASS: What’s Required for Compliance?
5 Common Mistakes in ASSMPs and How to Avoid Them
How WSW Creates ASSMPs in WA
How to Implement an ASSMP
