Gilbert + Sutherland

How big a risk to human health are soils containing Arsenic? A garden variety radish may help provide an answer. Assessing the phytotoxicity of an Arsenic-contaminated Ferosol soil using radish was the topic of an August 4, 2010 presentation by Gilbert & Sutherland Environmental Scientist Michelle Foster to the 19th World Congress of Soil Science in Brisbane.

Co-authored by Principal Agricultural & Environmental Scientist Neil Sutherland and Principal Agricultural Scientist Dr Phil Matthew, Foster’s paper reported the findings of a direct assessment of As phytotoxicity and soil availability in a Ferosol using a quick growing, common residential garden vegetable.

Gilbert & Sutherland Principal Agricultural & Environmental Scientist Neil Sutherland has told a Queensland Environmental Law Association (QLEA) seminar that more consultation over a new Temporary State Planning Policy (TSPP) is warranted.

Neil told the seminar that the assumptions underpinning TSPP No.1/2010, ‘Protecting Wetlands of High Ecological Significance in Great Barrier Reef Catchments’ needed further scrutiny and greater stakeholder consultation. He said in some instances, conflict could arise due to the ‘wetland’ definitions used and the default buffer requirements specified. TSPP 1/10 will restrict or ban major agricultural earthworks adjacent to or upstream of wetlands, effectively limiting cropping choices for the first time.

Gilbert & Sutherland has helped deliver a professional short course on acid sulfate soils (ASS) identification, assessment and management for Southern Cross University’s GeoScience Unit.

As an industry professional, G&S Principal Agricultural & Environmental Scientist Neil Sutherland was invited to present a component of the course, which is designed to improve the knowledge and skills of environmental managers and environmental practitioners.