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A factual key for the recognition of Australian soils 4th edition (Book)

This book, written by CSIRO’s Keith Northcote, was the primary soil classification system in Australia until it was largely superseded by the Australian Soil Classification (ASC) in the late 1990s. Unlike earlier systems, Northcote’s key is based entirely on soil profile morphology (physical characteristics observable in the field) rather than inferences about how the soil formed. Soils are identified by alphanumeric codes (e.g., Dr4.21) that describe key attributes like texture, colour, and structure. The key provided the technical framework for the Atlas of Australian Soils, which remains a critical digital resource for national soil data. While the Australian Soil Classification is now the official national standard, this book is still referenced in historical land surveys and ecological studies. Digital conversion tables such as the CSIRO Correlation Tables exist to translate Northcote’s PPF codes into modern ASC orders. This resource is included in the collection for its historical value. As a historical publication, it may contain information or practices that are outdated, no longer considered best practice, or inconsistent with current legislation or scientific understanding. Copies of this edition can still be found in university libraries or from specialty used book sellers (124 pages). #

  • Audience: RSP, tertiary students, SFSG, consultants
  • State: ACT, NSW, NT, QLD, SA, TAS, VIC, WA
  • Author/Editor: K Northcote
  • Publisher: Rellim Technical Publications
  • Resource Type: Book
  • Copyright Year: 1979
  • ISBN/ISDN: 9780959998900
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Resource Last Updated: May 29, 2026

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Each new library resource is added after careful consideration, it must:
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