Bushfire risk assessments are often a requirement for developments in the Rural Resource Zone and RMCG Tasmania can combine these with other assessment requirements such as agricultural reports and natural values assessments. We can also provide standalone assessment for proposals in an alternate zone.
The scale of the assessments range from an extension to an existing dwelling to multi-lot subdivisions and major infrastructure projects. We are accredited to complete Bushfire Hazard Management Plans for single dwellings, small and large subdivisions, hazardous uses and vulnerable uses.
Acid sulfate soil is a type of naturally occurring soil that has the potential to cause significant environmental harm if disturbed. These soils occur mainly in coastal areas, however they can also be found inland. In their natural state they are harmless. However, if these soils are excavated or exposed in significant quantities, or their hydrology is changed, there is the potential for significant acidification of land and waterways.
RMCG Tasmania has specialist expertise in the determination of acid sulfate soil risks. We can undertake mapping and sampling and provide interpretation of laboratory results and acid sulfate soil management plans for developers, and monitor the implementation of plans. RMCG Tasmania has worked with the State Government to develop practical and cost effective assessment and management techniques in a dam construction environment.
We utilise the advice of the Tasmanian Acid Sulfate Soil Management Guidelines 2009 to achieve best practice environmental management and avoid environmental harm resulting from the exposure of acid sulfate soils.
RMCG Tasmania has developed a staged approach to the identification, testing and management of acid sulfate soils to ensure cost effective outcomes. All soil testing is undertaken in NATA accredited laboratories.
RMCG Tasmania can provide salinity risk assessments including salinity management plans which can assess salinity risks under current land use, and the potential impacts of irrigation.
We work with relevant parties to consider the potential impact of more intensive land use, particularly irrigated cropping, on environmental sustainability. We can also provide training courses on best practice salinity management for farmers.
As part of the Tasmanian Irrigation ‘Scottsdale Irrigation Scheme’, RMCG Tasmania was engaged by construction contractors VEC Civil Engineering to conduct an acid sulfate soil assessment and management plan for a number of areas within the pipeline construction corridor which were identified as being at risk of containing potential acid sulfate soils.
This assessment was undertaken in accordance with the Tasmanian Acid Sulfate Soils Management Guidelines 2009 and the Tasmanian Irrigation Acid Sulfate Soil Management Protocol 2014 to ensure that best practice environmental management could be achieved in regard to potential disturbance of acid sulfate material.