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Below the surface: #39 The big ASS questions – a deeper dive into acid sulfate soils (Podcast)

In this Below the Surface podcast, hosts Gunnar Haid and James Hammond take a deep dive into acid sulfate soils (ASS) with the lead authors of Queensland’s internationally respected ASS guidelines – Sue-Ellen Dear, Kristie Williams and Angus McElnea. They explain how acid sulfate soils form, what occurs when pyrite-rich sediments are disturbed, and the critical distinction between potential and actual ASS – including the ‘trinity of acidities’ that underpins risk assessment and management. Drawing on decades of regulatory, technical and field experience, the panel explores real-world challenges. They emphasise why avoidance should always be the first priority, outline the practical limits of liming and mixing, unpack the debate around acid neutralising capacity, and explain the role of incubation testing. The discussion also covers strategic reburial, centralised treatment facilities, the carbon footprint of ASS management, and the industry’s tendency towards conservative safety factors. The episode concludes with insights into validation testing, safe reuse pathways and the future of professional certification (Spotify, February 20, 2026) [56:28]. The Below the surface team produced another podcast about ASS with Laurie Fox, #23 The basics: acid sulfate soils (Buzzsprout, 20 December 2024) [55:01]. #

  • Audience: RSP, tertiary students, landholders, SFSG, consultants
  • State: ACT, NSW, NT, QLD, SA, TAS, VIC, WA
  • Author/Editor: G Haid, J Hammond, S Deer, K Williams, A McElea
  • Publisher: Below the Surface
  • Resource Type: Podcast
  • Copyright Year: 2026
  • Not Provided
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Resource Last Updated: February 23, 2026

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