State and trends of soil acidification

Land
State and trends
Soil: Salinity and acidification
State and trends of soil acidification
Component
Summary
Grade
Very poor Poor Good Very good
Confidence
In Grade In Trend
Comparability
To previous years

1 Toowoomba Plateau

Naturally fertile land under intensive use. Insufficient lime application

Year(s): 
2016
2
Unclear
Confidence (in grade): 
Very limited
Confidence (in trend): 
Low
Comparability (to previous reports): 
Somewhat comparable

1 Toowoomba Plateau

20162011
Land
State and trends

Approach/Process

SoE 2011 assessments were updated using state agency data, when available, for grade and trends.

Data/Information sources

pH was modelled using the TERN Soil–Landscape Grid of Australia to determine grade (http://www.clw.csiro.au/aclep/tern/).

 

NSW EPA, 2015

NSW EPA (NSW Environment Protection Authority) (2015). Soil condition. In: New South Wales state of the environment 2015, NSW EPA, Sydney. 85-93.

Comments

Nil. 

 

Topics

Naturally fertile land with widespread intensive use. Insufficient lime application

Year(s): 
2011
2
Deteriorating
Confidence (in grade): 
Adequate
Confidence (in trend): 
Adequate
Comparability (to previous reports): 
Not assessed

Topics

2 Maryborough Lowland

Soils under pine plantations are acidifying, but improved practices for sugar cane and horticulture appear to be effective

Year(s): 
2016
2
Unclear
Confidence (in grade): 
Very limited
Confidence (in trend): 
Low
Comparability (to previous reports): 
Somewhat comparable

2 Maryborough Lowland

20162011
Land
State and trends

Approach/Process

SoE 2011 assessments of grade and trends were updated using state agency data, where available.

Data/Information sources

pH was modelled using the TERN Soil–Landscape Grid of Australia to determine grade (http://www.clw.csiro.au/aclep/tern/).

 

Comments

Nil.

Topics

Soils under pine plantations are acidifying, but improved practices for sugar cane and horticulture appear to be effective

Year(s): 
2011
3
Improving
Confidence (in grade): 
Adequate
Confidence (in trend): 
Limited
Comparability (to previous reports): 
Not assessed

Topics

3 Atherton Tableland

Improved practices across diverse land uses, but localised subsoil acidification under banana cropping

Year(s): 
2016
3
Unclear
Confidence (in grade): 
Very limited
Confidence (in trend): 
Low
Comparability (to previous reports): 
Somewhat comparable

3 Atherton Tableland

20162011
Land
State and trends

Approach/Process

SoE 2011 assessments of grade and trends were updated using state agency data, when available.

Data/Information sources

pH was modelled using the TERN Soil–Landscape Grid of Australia to determine grade (http://www.clw.csiro.au/aclep/tern/).

 

Comments

Nil.

Topics

Improved practices across diverse land uses, but localised subsoil acidification under banana cropping

Year(s): 
2011
3
Stable
Confidence (in grade): 
Adequate
Confidence (in trend): 
Limited
Comparability (to previous reports): 
Not assessed

Topics

4 Garnet Uplands

Recently intensified land use after clearing

Year(s): 
2016
3
Unclear
Confidence (in grade): 
Very limited
Confidence (in trend): 
Low
Comparability (to previous reports): 
Somewhat comparable

4 Garnet Uplands

20162011
Land
State and trends

Approach/Process

SoE 2011 assessments of grade and trends were updated using state agency data, when available.

Data/Information sources

pH was modelled using the TERN Soil–Landscape Grid of Australia to determine grade (http://www.clw.csiro.au/aclep/tern/).

 

Comments

Nil.

Topics

Recently intensified land use after clearing

Year(s): 
2011
4
Deteriorating
Confidence (in grade): 
Limited
Confidence (in trend): 
Limited
Comparability (to previous reports): 
Not assessed

Topics

5 Tenterfield Plateau

Grazing of modified and natural pastures, with widespread declines in pH. In the Northern Tablelands region of New South Wales, 11% of soil monitoring units report acidification is an issue

Year(s): 
2016
3
Unclear
Confidence (in grade): 
Very limited
Confidence (in trend): 
Low
Comparability (to previous reports): 
Somewhat comparable

5 Tenterfield Plateau

20162011
Land
State and trends

Approach/Process

SoE 2011 assessments of grade and trends were updated using state agency data, when available.

Data/Information sources

pH was modelled using the TERN Soil–Landscape Grid of Australia to determine grade (http://www.clw.csiro.au/aclep/tern/).

Relevant publication published since the 2011 assessment:

NSW EPA, 2015

 

NSW EPA, 2015

NSW EPA (NSW Environment Protection Authority) (2015). Soil condition. In: New South Wales state of the environment 2015, NSW EPA, Sydney. 85-93.

Comments

Quality of data used in the assessment:

  • Medium–High: NSW has established soil monitoring sites.

 

Topics

Grazing of modified and natural pastures, with widespread declines in pH

Year(s): 
2011
3
Deteriorating
Confidence (in grade): 
Adequate
Confidence (in trend): 
Limited
Comparability (to previous reports): 
Not assessed

Topics

6 Clarence Lowlands

Coastal lowlands with a variety of soil types. Significant decline in pH on the floodplains due to intensive agriculture. in the North Coast region of New South Wales, 22% of soil monitoring units report acidification as an issue

Year(s): 
2016
2
Unclear
Confidence (in grade): 
Very limited
Confidence (in trend): 
Low
Comparability (to previous reports): 
Somewhat comparable

6 Clarence Lowlands

20162011
Land
State and trends

Approach/Process

SoE 2011 assessments of grade and trends were updated using state agency data, when available.

Data/Information sources

pH was modelled using the TERN Soil–Landscape Grid of Australia to determine grade (http://www.clw.csiro.au/aclep/tern/).

Relevant publication since the 2011 assessment:

NSW EPA, 2015 (Chapter 10, Soil Condition)

 

NSW EPA, 2015

NSW EPA (NSW Environment Protection Authority) (2015). Soil condition. In: New South Wales state of the environment 2015, NSW EPA, Sydney. 85-93.

Comments

Quality of data used in the assessment:

  • Medium–High: NSW has established soil monitoring sites.

 

Topics

Coastal lowlands with a variety of soil types. Significant decline in pH on the floodplains due to intensive agriculture

Year(s): 
2011
2
Deteriorating
Confidence (in grade): 
Adequate
Confidence (in trend): 
Adequate
Comparability (to previous reports): 
Not assessed

Topics

7 Cobar Plains

Cropping and grazing of modified and natural pastures in the east, with declines in pH evident

Year(s): 
2016
2
Unclear
Confidence (in grade): 
Somewhat adequate
Confidence (in trend): 
Somewhat adequate
Comparability (to previous reports): 
Somewhat comparable

7 Cobar Plains

20162011
Land
State and trends

Approach/Process

SoE 2011 assessments of grade and trends were updated using state agency data, where available.

Data/Information sources

pH was modelled using the TERN Soil–Landscape Grid of Australia to determine grade (http://www.clw.csiro.au/aclep/tern/).

Relevant publication since the 2011 assessment:

NSW EPA, 2015 (Chapter 10, Soil Condition)

 

NSW EPA, 2015

NSW EPA (NSW Environment Protection Authority) (2015). Soil condition. In: New South Wales state of the environment 2015, NSW EPA, Sydney. 85-93.

Comments

Quality of data used in the assessment:

  • Medium–High: NSW has established soil monitoring sites.

 

Topics

Cropping and grazing of modified and natural pastures in the east, with declines in pH evident

Year(s): 
2011
2
Deteriorating
Confidence (in grade): 
Limited
Confidence (in trend): 
Limited
Comparability (to previous reports): 
Not assessed

Topics

8 Mitchell Slopes

Diverse landscape, but pH has declined markedly, especially on soils with a long history of mixed farming

Year(s): 
2016
2
Unclear
Confidence (in grade): 
Somewhat adequate
Confidence (in trend): 
Somewhat adequate
Comparability (to previous reports): 
Somewhat comparable

8 Mitchell Slopes

20162011
Land
State and trends

Approach/Process

SoE 2011 assessments of grade and trends were updated using state agency data, where available.

Data/Information sources

pH was modelled using the TERN Soil–Landscape Grid of Australia to determine grade (http://www.clw.csiro.au/aclep/tern/).

Relevant publication since the 2011 assessment:

NSW EPA 2015 (Chapter 10, Soil Condition)

 

NSW EPA, 2015

NSW EPA (NSW Environment Protection Authority) (2015). Soil condition. In: New South Wales state of the environment 2015, NSW EPA, Sydney. 85-93.

Comments

Quality of data used in the assessment:

  • Medium–High: NSW has established soil monitoring sites.

 

Topics

Diverse landscape, but pH has declined markedly, especially on soils with a long history of mixed farming

Year(s): 
2011
2
Deteriorating
Confidence (in grade): 
Adequate
Confidence (in trend): 
Adequate
Comparability (to previous reports): 
Not assessed

Topics

9 Merriwa Plateau

Fertile Ferrosols and Vertosols, mostly used for mixed farming. Slow decline in pH likely due to management systems

Year(s): 
2016
3
Deteriorating
Confidence (in grade): 
Somewhat adequate
Confidence (in trend): 
Somewhat adequate
Comparability (to previous reports): 
Somewhat comparable

9 Merriwa Plateau

20162011
Land
State and trends

Approach/Process

SoE 2011 assessments of grade and trends were updated using state agency data, where available.

Data/Information sources

pH was modelled using the TERN Soil–Landscape Grid of Australia to determine grade (http://www.clw.csiro.au/aclep/tern/).

Relevant publication since the 2011 assessment:

NSW EPA, 2015 (Chapter 10, Soil Condition)

 

NSW EPA, 2015

NSW EPA (NSW Environment Protection Authority) (2015). Soil condition. In: New South Wales state of the environment 2015, NSW EPA, Sydney. 85-93.

Comments

Quality of data used in the assessment:

  • Medium–High: NSW has established soil monitoring sites.

 

Topics

Fertile Ferrosols and Vertosols, mostly used for mixed farming. Slow decline in pH likely due to management systems

Year(s): 
2011
4
Deteriorating
Confidence (in grade): 
Limited
Confidence (in trend): 
Limited
Comparability (to previous reports): 
Not assessed

Topics

10 Goulburn Corridor

Minimal evidence, but declines in pH are expected as a result of lack of liming

Year(s): 
2016
4
Unclear
Confidence (in grade): 
Somewhat adequate
Confidence (in trend): 
Somewhat adequate
Comparability (to previous reports): 
Somewhat comparable

10 Goulburn Corridor

20162011
Land
State and trends

Approach/Process

SoE 2011 assessments of grade and trends were updated using state agency data, where available.

Data/Information sources

pH was modelled using the TERN Soil–Landscape Grid of Australia to determine grade (http://www.clw.csiro.au/aclep/tern/).

Relevant publication since the 2011 assessment:

  • NSW EPA, 2015 (Chapter 10, Soil condition)

     

NSW EPA, 2015

NSW EPA (NSW Environment Protection Authority) (2015). Soil condition. In: New South Wales state of the environment 2015, NSW EPA, Sydney. 85-93.

Comments

Quality of data used in the assessment:

  • Medium–High: NSW has established soil monitoring sites.

 

Topics

Minimal evidence, but declines in pH are expected due to lack of liming

Year(s): 
2011
4
Deteriorating
Confidence (in grade): 
Limited
Confidence (in trend): 
Limited
Comparability (to previous reports): 
Not assessed

Topics

11 Hunter Valley

Soil acidity is a problem on coastal floodplains. In the Hunter region of New South Wales, 25% of soil monitoring units report it as an issue

Year(s): 
2016
2
Unclear
Confidence (in grade): 
Adequate
Confidence (in trend): 
Adequate
Comparability (to previous reports): 
Comparable

11 Hunter Valley

20162011
Land
State and trends

Approach/Process

SoE 2011 assessments of grade and trends were updated using state agency data, where available.

Data/Information sources

pH was modelled using the TERN Soil–Landscape Grid of Australia to determine grade (http://www.clw.csiro.au/aclep/tern/).

Relevant publication since the 2011 assessment:

NSW EPA, 2015 (Chapter 10, Soil condition)

 

NSW EPA, 2015

NSW EPA (NSW Environment Protection Authority) (2015). Soil condition. In: New South Wales state of the environment 2015, NSW EPA, Sydney. 85-93.

Comments

Quality of data used in the assessment:

  • Medium–High: NSW has established soil monitoring sites.

 

Topics

Mined areas and Hunter River floodplains are mostly managed sustainably for acidification, but declines in pH are expected on the Singleton Valley floodplains

Year(s): 
2011
2
Deteriorating
Confidence (in grade): 
Limited
Confidence (in trend): 
Limited
Comparability (to previous reports): 
Not assessed

Topics

12 Riverine Plain

Diverse region, with probable decline in pH in irrigation districts and in soils used for dryland cropping and grazing of annual pastures, especially in the south. None of the soil monitoring units in this region have reported soil acidity as an issue

Year(s): 
2016
3
Unclear
Confidence (in grade): 
Somewhat adequate
Confidence (in trend): 
Somewhat adequate
Comparability (to previous reports): 
Somewhat comparable

12 Riverine Plain

20162011
Land
State and trends

Approach/Process

SoE 2011 assessments of grade and trends were updated using state agency data, where available.

Data/Information sources

pH was modelled using the TERN Soil–Landscape Grid of Australia to determine grade (http://www.clw.csiro.au/aclep/tern/).

Relevant publication since the 2011 assessment:

NSW EPA, 2015 (Chapter 10, Soil condition)

 

NSW EPA, 2015

NSW EPA (NSW Environment Protection Authority) (2015). Soil condition. In: New South Wales state of the environment 2015, NSW EPA, Sydney. 85-93.

Comments

Quality of data used in the assessment:

  • Medium–High: NSW has established soil monitoring sites
  • Low: Victoria’s last assessment of soil acidity was in 1994.

 

Topics

Diverse region, with declines in pH in irrigation districts and in soils used for dryland cropping and grazing of annual pastures, especially in the south

Year(s): 
2011
3
Deteriorating
Confidence (in grade): 
Limited
Confidence (in trend): 
Limited
Comparability (to previous reports): 
Not assessed

Topics

13 Hume Slopes

Mostly mixed farming. Widespread and significant declines in soil pH. In the South East region of New South Wales, 18% of soil monitoring units have reported soil acidity as an issue

Year(s): 
2016
2
Unclear
Confidence (in grade): 
Somewhat adequate
Confidence (in trend): 
Somewhat adequate
Comparability (to previous reports): 
Somewhat comparable

13 Hume Slopes

20162011
Land
State and trends

Approach/Process

SoE 2011 assessments of grade and trends were updated using state agency data, where available.

Data/Information sources

pH was modelled using the TERN Soil–Landscape Grid of Australia to determine grade (http://www.clw.csiro.au/aclep/tern/).

Relevant publication since the 2011 assessment:

NSW EPA, 2015 (Chapter 10, Soil condition)

 

NSW EPA, 2015

NSW EPA (NSW Environment Protection Authority) (2015). Soil condition. In: New South Wales state of the environment 2015, NSW EPA, Sydney. 85-93.

Comments

Quality of data used in the assessment:

  • Medium–High: NSW has established soil monitoring sites
  • Low: Victoria’s last assessment of soil acidity was in 1994.

 

Topics

Mostly mixed farming. Widespread and significant declines in soil pH

Year(s): 
2011
2
Deteriorating
Confidence (in grade): 
Adequate
Confidence (in trend): 
Adequate
Comparability (to previous reports): 
Not assessed

Topics

14 Condobolin Plains

Declines in pH restricted to irrigation districts

Year(s): 
2016
2
Unclear
Confidence (in grade): 
Somewhat adequate
Confidence (in trend): 
Somewhat adequate
Comparability (to previous reports): 
Somewhat comparable

14 Condobolin Plains

20162011
Land
State and trends

Approach/Process

SoE 2011 assessments of grade and trends were updated using state agency data, where available.

Data/Information sources

pH was modelled using the TERN Soil–Landscape Grid of Australia to determine grade (http://www.clw.csiro.au/aclep/tern/).

Relevant publication since the 2011 assessment:

NSW EPA, 2015 (Chapter 10, Soil condition)

 

NSW EPA, 2015

NSW EPA (NSW Environment Protection Authority) (2015). Soil condition. In: New South Wales state of the environment 2015, NSW EPA, Sydney. 85-93.

Comments

Quality of data used in the assessment:

  • Medium–High: NSW has established soil monitoring sites.

 

Topics

Declines in pH restricted to irrigation districts

Year(s): 
2011
2
Deteriorating
Confidence (in grade): 
Limited
Confidence (in trend): 
Limited
Comparability (to previous reports): 
Not assessed

Topics

15 Bathurst Tablelands

 Diverse soils, used for grazing of modified and natural pastures. None of the soil monitoring units in the Central Tablelands region of NSW have reported soil acidity as an issue

Year(s): 
2016
2
Unclear
Confidence (in grade): 
Limited
Confidence (in trend): 
Limited
Comparability (to previous reports): 
Somewhat comparable

15 Bathurst Tablelands

20162011
Land
State and trends

Approach/Process

SoE 2011 assessments of grade and trends were updated using state agency data, where available.

Data/Information sources

pH was modelled using the TERN Soil–Landscape Grid of Australia to determine grade (http://www.clw.csiro.au/aclep/tern/).

Relevant publication since the 2011 assessment:

NSW EPA, 2015 (Chapter 10, Soil condition)

 

NSW EPA, 2015

NSW EPA (NSW Environment Protection Authority) (2015). Soil condition. In: New South Wales state of the environment 2015, NSW EPA, Sydney. 85-93.

Comments

Quality of data used in the assessment:

  • Medium–High: NSW has established soil monitoring sites.

 

Topics

Diverse soils used for grazing of modified and natural pastures

Year(s): 
2011
2
Deteriorating
Confidence (in grade): 
Adequate
Confidence (in trend): 
Limited
Comparability (to previous reports): 
Not assessed

Topics

16 Hawkesbury Shoalhaven Plateau

Substantial declines in pH in soils used for agriculture. In the Greater Sydney region of New South Wales, 43% of soil monitoring units have reported soil acidity as an issue

Year(s): 
2016
2
Unclear
Confidence (in grade): 
Adequate
Confidence (in trend): 
Adequate
Comparability (to previous reports): 
Comparable

16 Hawkesbury Shoalhaven Plateau

20162011
Land
State and trends

Approach/Process

SoE 2011 assessments of grade and trends were updated using state agency data, where available.

Data/Information sources

pH was modelled using the TERN Soil–Landscape Grid of Australia to determine grade (http://www.clw.csiro.au/aclep/tern/).

Relevant publication since the 2011 assessment:

NSW EPA, 2015 (Chapter 10, Soil condition)

 

NSW EPA, 2015

NSW EPA (NSW Environment Protection Authority) (2015). Soil condition. In: New South Wales state of the environment 2015, NSW EPA, Sydney. 85-93.

Comments

Quality of data used in the assessment:

  • Medium–High: NSW has established soil monitoring sites.

 

Topics

Substantial declines in pH in soils used for agriculture

Year(s): 
2011
2
Deteriorating
Confidence (in grade): 
Adequate
Confidence (in trend): 
Limited
Comparability (to previous reports): 
Not assessed

Topics

17 Cumberland Lowland

Declining pH in soils used for vegetable production and intensive agriculture

Year(s): 
2016
3
Deteriorating
Confidence (in grade): 
Somewhat adequate
Confidence (in trend): 
Somewhat adequate
Comparability (to previous reports): 
Somewhat comparable

17 Cumberland Lowland

20162011
Land
State and trends

Approach/Process

SoE 2011 assessments of grade and trends were updated using state agency data, where available.

Data/Information sources

pH was modelled using the TERN Soil–Landscape Grid of Australia to determine grade (http://www.clw.csiro.au/aclep/tern/).

Relevant publication since the 2011 assessment:

NSW EPA, 2015 (Chapter 10, Soil condition)

 

NSW EPA, 2015

NSW EPA (NSW Environment Protection Authority) (2015). Soil condition. In: New South Wales state of the environment 2015, NSW EPA, Sydney. 85-93.

Comments

Quality of data used in the assessment:

  • Medium–High: NSW has established soil monitoring sites.

 

Topics

Declining pH in soils used for vegetable production and intensive agriculture

Year(s): 
2011
3
Deteriorating
Confidence (in grade): 
Limited
Confidence (in trend): 
Adequate
Comparability (to previous reports): 
Not assessed

Topics

18 Werriwa Tablelands

Declining pH in soils used for grazing of native and improved pastures

Year(s): 
2016
2
Unclear
Confidence (in grade): 
Limited
Confidence (in trend): 
Limited
Comparability (to previous reports): 
Somewhat comparable

18 Werriwa Tablelands

20162011
Land
State and trends

Approach/Process

SoE 2011 assessments of grade and trends were updated using state agency data, where available.

Data/Information sources

pH was modelled using the TERN Soil–Landscape Grid of Australia to determine grade (http://www.clw.csiro.au/aclep/tern/).

Relevant publication since the 2011 assessment:

NSW EPA, 2015 (Chapter 10, Soil condition)

 

NSW EPA, 2015

NSW EPA (NSW Environment Protection Authority) (2015). Soil condition. In: New South Wales state of the environment 2015, NSW EPA, Sydney. 85-93.

Comments

Quality of data used in the assessment:

  • Medium–High: NSW has established soil monitoring sites.

 

Topics

Declining pH in soils used for grazing of native and improved pastures

Year(s): 
2011
2
Deteriorating
Confidence (in grade): 
Limited
Confidence (in trend): 
Limited
Comparability (to previous reports): 
Not assessed

Topics

19 Tinderry Gourock Ranges

Declining pH in soils used for grazing of natural and modified pastures

Year(s): 
2016
3
Unclear
Confidence (in grade): 
Limited
Confidence (in trend): 
Limited
Comparability (to previous reports): 
Somewhat comparable

Topics

Declining pH in soils used for grazing of natural and modified pastures

Year(s): 
2011
3
Deteriorating
Confidence (in grade): 
Limited
Confidence (in trend): 
Limited
Comparability (to previous reports): 
Not assessed

Topics

20 Monaro Fall

Declines in pH in soils used for grazing

Year(s): 
2016
2
Unclear
Confidence (in grade): 
Limited
Confidence (in trend): 
Limited
Comparability (to previous reports): 
Somewhat comparable

20 Monaro Fall

20162011
Land
State and trends

Approach/Process

SoE 2011 assessments of grade and trends were updated using state agency data, where available. 

Data/Information sources

pH was modelled using the TERN Soil–Landscape Grid of Australia to determine grade (http://www.clw.csiro.au/aclep/tern/).

Relevant publication since the 2011 assessment:

NSW EPA, 2015 (Chapter 10, Soil condition)

 

NSW EPA, 2015

NSW EPA (NSW Environment Protection Authority) (2015). Soil condition. In: New South Wales state of the environment 2015, NSW EPA, Sydney. 85-93.

Comments

Quality of data used in the assessment:

  • Medium–High: NSW has established soil monitoring sites
  • Low: Victoria’s last assessment of soil acidity was in 1994.

 

Topics

Declines in pH in soils used for grazing

Year(s): 
2011
2
Deteriorating
Confidence (in grade): 
Limited
Confidence (in trend): 
Limited
Comparability (to previous reports): 
Not assessed

Topics

21 Monaro Tableland

Declining pH in soils used for grazing of natural and modified pastures

Year(s): 
2016
3
Unclear
Confidence (in grade): 
Limited
Confidence (in trend): 
Limited
Comparability (to previous reports): 
Somewhat comparable

21 Monaro Tableland

20162011
Land
State and trends

Approach/Process

SoE 2011 assessments of grade and trends were updated using state agency data, where available.

Data/Information sources

pH was modelled using the TERN Soil–Landscape Grid of Australia to determine grade (http://www.clw.csiro.au/aclep/tern/).

Relevant publication since the 2011 assessment:

NSW EPA, 2015 (Chapter 10, Soil condition)

 

NSW EPA, 2015

NSW EPA (NSW Environment Protection Authority) (2015). Soil condition. In: New South Wales state of the environment 2015, NSW EPA, Sydney. 85-93.

Comments

Quality of data used in the assessment:

  • Medium–High: NSW has established soil monitoring sites
  • Low: Victoria’s last assessment of soil acidity was in 1994.

 

Topics

Declining pH in soils used for grazing of natural and modified pastures

Year(s): 
2011
3
Deteriorating
Confidence (in grade): 
Limited
Confidence (in trend): 
Limited
Comparability (to previous reports): 
Not assessed

Topics

22 Australian Alps and East Victorian Uplands

Grazing lands outside conservation reserves are showing declines in pH

Year(s): 
2016
2
Unclear
Confidence (in grade): 
Very limited
Confidence (in trend): 
Low
Comparability (to previous reports): 
Somewhat comparable

22 Australian Alps and East Victorian Uplands

20162011
Land
State and trends

Approach/Process

SoE 2011 assessments of grade and trend updated using state agency data where available.  

Data/Information sources

pH modelled using TERN Soil-Landscape Grid of Australia  to determine grade (http://www.clw.csiro.au/aclep/tern/)

Comments

Quality of data used in the assessment:

Low: Victoria’s last assessment of soil acidity was in 1994.

Topics

Grazing lands outside conservation reserves are showing declines in pH

Year(s): 
2011
2
Deteriorating
Confidence (in grade): 
Limited
Confidence (in trend): 
Limited
Comparability (to previous reports): 
Not assessed

Topics

23 West Victorian Uplands

Areas used for grazing of dryland annual pastures are acidifying

Year(s): 
2016
2
Unclear
Confidence (in grade): 
Very limited
Confidence (in trend): 
Low
Comparability (to previous reports): 
Somewhat comparable

23 West Victorian Uplands

20162011
Land
State and trends

Approach/Process

SoE 2011 assessments of grade and trends were updated using state agency data, where available.

Data/Information sources

pH was modelled using the TERN Soil–Landscape Grid of Australia to determine grade (http://www.clw.csiro.au/aclep/tern/).

 

Comments

Quality of data used in the assessment:

  • Low: Victoria’s last assessment of soil acidity was in 1994.

 

Topics

Areas used for grazing of dryland annual pastures are acidifying

Year(s): 
2011
2
Deteriorating
Confidence (in grade): 
Limited
Confidence (in trend): 
Limited
Comparability (to previous reports): 
Not assessed

Topics

24 West Victorian Plains

Diverse lands, with evidence of acidification on poorly drained Sodosols and Vertosols used for dryland cropping and the grazing of annual pastures

Year(s): 
2016
3
Unclear
Confidence (in grade): 
Very limited
Confidence (in trend): 
Low
Comparability (to previous reports): 
Somewhat comparable

24 West Victorian Plains

20162011
Land
State and trends

Approach/Process

SoE 2011 assessments of grade and trends were updated using state agency data, where available.

Data/Information sources

pH was modelled using the TERN Soil–Landscape Grid of Australia to determine grade (http://www.clw.csiro.au/aclep/tern/).

 

Comments

Quality of data used in the assessment:

  • Low: Victoria’s last assessment of soil acidity was in 1994.

 

Topics

Diverse lands with evidence of acidification restricted to poorly drained Sodosols and Vertosols used for dryland cropping and the grazing of annual pastures

Year(s): 
2011
3
Deteriorating
Confidence (in grade): 
Limited
Confidence (in trend): 
Limited
Comparability (to previous reports): 
Not assessed

Topics

25 Lincoln Hills, Eyre Dunefield and Yorke Peninsula

Mainly dryland agriculture. Generally stable pH in Calcarosols, but rates of liming are not sufficient to balance rates of acid addition for most soils

Year(s): 
2016
3
Deteriorating
Confidence (in grade): 
Adequate
Confidence (in trend): 
Adequate
Comparability (to previous reports): 
Somewhat comparable

25 Lincoln Hills, Eyre Dunefield and Yorke Peninsula

20162011
Land
State and trends

Approach/Process

SoE 2011 assessments of grade and trend updated using state agency data where available. 

Data/Information sources

Relevant publication since the 2011 assessment:

South Australia 2013 State Report Card: Is soil acidity decreasing in our agricultural areas? https://data.environment.sa.gov.au/NRM-Report-Cards/Pages/Soil-and-land.aspx

 

Comments

Quality of data used in the assessment:

Med-Low: SA reports regional trend in lime sales

Topics

Mainly dryland agriculture. Rates of liming are not sufficient to balance rates of acid addition for most soils. Generally stable pH in Calcarosols

Year(s): 
2011
3
Deteriorating
Confidence (in grade): 
Adequate
Confidence (in trend): 
Adequate
Comparability (to previous reports): 
Not assessed

Topics

26 Flinders–Lofty Ranges

Diverse lands, with stable pH in the arid north. Declines in pH are occurring in the temperate central area under dryland cropping and viticulture, and in the cool temperate south under viticulture, horticulture, and grazing

Year(s): 
2016
3
Stable
Confidence (in grade): 
Adequate
Confidence (in trend): 
Adequate
Comparability (to previous reports): 
Comparable

26 Flinders–Lofty Ranges

20162011
Land
State and trends

Approach/Process

SoE 2011 assessments of grade and trend updated using state agency data where available. 

Data/Information sources

pH modelled using TERN Soil-Landscape Grid of Australia  to determine grade (http://www.clw.csiro.au/aclep/tern/)

Relevant publication since the 2011 assessment:

SA Government, 2013

 

Comments

Quality of data used in the assessment:

Med-Low: SA reports regional trend in lime sales

Topics

Diverse lands with stable pH in the arid north. Declines in pH are occurring in the temperate central area under dryland cropping and viticulture. Lands in the cool temperate south used for viticulture, horticulture and grazing are acidifying

Year(s): 
2011
3
Deteriorating
Confidence (in grade): 
Adequate
Confidence (in trend): 
Adequate
Comparability (to previous reports): 
Not assessed

Topics

27 Mallee Dunefield

Mainly cropping in rotation with pastures. Declining pH in surface soil over calcareous subsoils. Significant declines in pH in horticulture areas along the Murray River

Year(s): 
2016
3
Improving
Confidence (in grade): 
Adequate
Confidence (in trend): 
Adequate
Comparability (to previous reports): 
Comparable

27 Mallee Dunefield

20162011
Land
State and trends

Approach/Process

SoE 2011 assessments of grade and trends were updated using state agency data, where available.

Data/Information sources

pH was modelled using the TERN Soil–Landscape Grid of Australia to determine grade (http://www.clw.csiro.au/aclep/tern/).

Relevant publication published since the 2011 assessment:

 

South Australian Government 2013a

South Australian Government (2013a). 2013 state report card: is soil acidity decreasing in our agricultural area ? South Australian Government, Adelaide.

Comments

Quality of data used in the assessment:

Med-Low: SA reports regional trend in lime sales

Low: Victoria’s last assessment of soil acidity was in 1994.

Topics

Mainly cropping in rotation with pastures. Trend to more cropping. Declining pH in surface soil layers over calcareous subsoils. Significant declines in pH in horticulture areas along the Murray River

Year(s): 
2011
3
Deteriorating
Confidence (in grade): 
Adequate
Confidence (in trend): 
Adequate
Comparability (to previous reports): 
Not assessed

Topics

28 Wimmera and Millicent Plains

Diverse soils used for dryland cropping, grazing, some irrigation and forestry in the south. Declining trend in pH due to insufficient lime use

Year(s): 
2016
3
Stable
Confidence (in grade): 
Adequate
Confidence (in trend): 
Adequate
Comparability (to previous reports): 
Comparable

28 Wimmera and Millicent Plains

20162011
Land
State and trends

Approach/Process

SoE 2011 assessments of grade and trends were updated using state agency data, where available.

Data/Information sources

pH was modelled using the TERN Soil–Landscape Grid of Australia to determine grade (http://www.clw.csiro.au/aclep/tern/).

Relevant publication since the 2011 assessment:

 

South Australian Government 2013a

South Australian Government (2013a). 2013 state report card: is soil acidity decreasing in our agricultural area ? South Australian Government, Adelaide.

Comments

Quality of data used in the assessment:

  • Medium–Low: SA reports regional trend in lime sales
  • Low: Victoria’s last assessment of soil acidity was in 1994

 

Topics

Diverse soils used for dryland cropping, grazing, some irrigation and forestry in the south. Declining trend in pH due to insufficient lime use

Year(s): 
2011
3
Deteriorating
Confidence (in grade): 
Adequate
Confidence (in trend): 
Adequate
Comparability (to previous reports): 
Not assessed

Topics

29 Warren–Denmark Slopes, Leeuwin Peninsula and Donnybrook Lowland

Forestry, intensive agriculture and dryland cropping. Intensively used areas are still below desired pH

Year(s): 
2016
2
Deteriorating
Confidence (in grade): 
Adequate
Confidence (in trend): 
Adequate
Comparability (to previous reports): 
Comparable

29 Warren–Denmark Slopes, Leeuwin Peninsula and Donnybrook Lowland

20162011
Land
State and trends

Approach/Process

SoE 2011 assessments of grade and trend updated using state agency data where available. 

Data/Information sources

pH modelled using TERN Soil-Landscape Grid of Australia  to determine grade (http://www.clw.csiro.au/aclep/tern/)

Relevant publications published since the 2011 assessment:

Gazey et al. 2013

Comments

Quality of data used in the assessment:

Med-High: Gazey et al. (2013) maps and reports of agricultural soil regions (approximately equalling physiographic regions) which update southwestern Western Australia

Topics

Forestry, intensive agriculture and dryland cropping. Significant declines in pH in intensively used areas

Year(s): 
2011
3
Deteriorating
Confidence (in grade): 
Limited
Confidence (in trend): 
Limited
Comparability (to previous reports): 
Not assessed

Topics

30 Albany Esperance Sandplain

Grazing and cropping systems are acidifying, particularly on lighter soils

Year(s): 
2016
2
Deteriorating
Confidence (in grade): 
Adequate
Confidence (in trend): 
Adequate
Comparability (to previous reports): 
Comparable

30 Albany Esperance Sandplain

20162011
Land
State and trends

Approach/Process

SoE 2011 assessments of grade and trends were updated using state agency data, where available.

Data/Information sources

pH was modelled using the TERN Soil–Landscape Grid of Australia to determine grade (http://www.clw.csiro.au/aclep/tern/).

Relevant publication since the 2011 assessment:

Gazey at al., 2013

 

Gazey et al., 2013

Gazey C, Andrew J & Griffin T (2013). Soil acidity. In: Noel Schoknecht N, Bicknell D, Ruprecht J, Smith F & Massenbauer A (eds), Report card on sustainable natural resource use in agriculture: status and trend in the agricultural areas of the south-west of Western Australia, Western Australian Department of Agriculture and Food, Perth, 26–43.

Comments

Quality of data used in the assessment: Medium–High

​Gazey et al., 2013​ maps and reports of agricultural soil regions (approximately equalling physiographical regions) update information on south-western Western Australia.

Topics

Grazing and cropping systems are acidifying, particularly on lighter soils

Year(s): 
2011
2
Deteriorating
Confidence (in grade): 
Limited
Confidence (in trend): 
Limited
Comparability (to previous reports): 
Not assessed

Topics

31 Avon Plateau and Northam Slopes

Diverse soils. Widespread surface and subsurface soil acidity. Some improvement in the north

Year(s): 
2016
2
Deteriorating
Confidence (in grade): 
Adequate
Confidence (in trend): 
Adequate
Comparability (to previous reports): 
Comparable

31 Avon Plateau and Northam Slopes

20162011
Land
State and trends

Approach/Process

SoE 2011 assessments of grade and trends were updated using state agency data, where available.

Data/Information sources

pH was modelled using the TERN Soil–Landscape Grid of Australia to determine grade (http://www.clw.csiro.au/aclep/tern/).

Relevant publication since the 2011 assessment:

Gazey et al., 2013

 

Gazey et al., 2013

Gazey C, Andrew J & Griffin T (2013). Soil acidity. In: Noel Schoknecht N, Bicknell D, Ruprecht J, Smith F & Massenbauer A (eds), Report card on sustainable natural resource use in agriculture: status and trend in the agricultural areas of the south-west of Western Australia, Western Australian Department of Agriculture and Food, Perth, 26–43.

Comments

Quality of data used in the assessment: Medium–High

​Gazey et al., 2013​ maps and reports of agricultural soil regions (approximately equalling physiographical regions) update information on south-western Western Australia.

Topics

Diverse soils. Widespread surface and subsurface soil acidity. Inadequate application of lime

Year(s): 
2011
2
Deteriorating
Confidence (in grade): 
Adequate
Confidence (in trend): 
Adequate
Comparability (to previous reports): 
Not assessed

Topics

32 Darling Range

Mostly forested, but areas used for cropping and grazing are acidifying

Year(s): 
2016
2
Deteriorating
Confidence (in grade): 
Adequate
Confidence (in trend): 
Adequate
Comparability (to previous reports): 
Comparable

32 Darling Range

20162011
Land
State and trends

Approach/Process

SoE 2011 assessments of grade and trends were updated using state agency data, where available.

Data/Information sources

pH was modelled using the TERN Soil–Landscape Grid of Australia to determine grade (http://www.clw.csiro.au/aclep/tern/).

Relevant publication since the 2011 assessment:

Gazey et al., 2013

 

Gazey et al., 2013

Gazey C, Andrew J & Griffin T (2013). Soil acidity. In: Noel Schoknecht N, Bicknell D, Ruprecht J, Smith F & Massenbauer A (eds), Report card on sustainable natural resource use in agriculture: status and trend in the agricultural areas of the south-west of Western Australia, Western Australian Department of Agriculture and Food, Perth, 26–43.

Comments

Quality of data used in the assessment: Medium–High

​Gazey et al., 2013​ maps and reports of agricultural soil regions (approximately equalling physiographical regions) update information on south-western Western Australia.

Topics

Mostly forested, but areas use for cropping and grazing are acidifying

Year(s): 
2011
2
Deteriorating
Confidence (in grade): 
Limited
Confidence (in trend): 
Limited
Comparability (to previous reports): 
Not assessed

Topics

33 Swan Plain

Urban areas and intensive agriculture. Most of the region is below desired pH and continues to acidify

Year(s): 
2016
2
Deteriorating
Confidence (in grade): 
Adequate
Confidence (in trend): 
Adequate
Comparability (to previous reports): 
Comparable

33 Swan Plain

20162011
Land
State and trends

Approach/Process

SoE 2011 assessments of grade and trends were updated using state agency data, where available.

Data/Information sources

pH was modelled using the TERN Soil–Landscape Grid of Australia to determine grade (http://www.clw.csiro.au/aclep/tern/).

Relevant publication since the 2011 assessment:

Gazey et al., 2013

 

Gazey et al., 2013

Gazey C, Andrew J & Griffin T (2013). Soil acidity. In: Noel Schoknecht N, Bicknell D, Ruprecht J, Smith F & Massenbauer A (eds), Report card on sustainable natural resource use in agriculture: status and trend in the agricultural areas of the south-west of Western Australia, Western Australian Department of Agriculture and Food, Perth, 26–43.

Comments

Quality of data used in the assessment: Medium–High

​Gazey et al., 2013​ maps and reports of agricultural soil regions (approximately equalling physiographical regions) update information on south-western Western Australia.

Topics

Urban areas and intensive agriculture, with declines in pH in the latter

Year(s): 
2011
2
Deteriorating
Confidence (in grade): 
Limited
Confidence (in trend): 
Limited
Comparability (to previous reports): 
Not assessed

Topics

34 Dandaragan Tablelands

Some local pockets of improvement in pH trend, but decline in pH continues

Year(s): 
2016
2
Stable
Confidence (in grade): 
Adequate
Confidence (in trend): 
Adequate
Comparability (to previous reports): 
Comparable

34 Dandaragan Tablelands

20162011
Land
State and trends

Approach/Process

SoE 2011 assessments of grade and trends were updated using state agency data, where available.

Data/Information sources

pH was modelled using the TERN Soil–Landscape Grid of Australia to determine grade (http://www.clw.csiro.au/aclep/tern/).

Relevant publication since the 2011 assessment:

Gazey et al., 2013

 

Gazey et al., 2013

Gazey C, Andrew J & Griffin T (2013). Soil acidity. In: Noel Schoknecht N, Bicknell D, Ruprecht J, Smith F & Massenbauer A (eds), Report card on sustainable natural resource use in agriculture: status and trend in the agricultural areas of the south-west of Western Australia, Western Australian Department of Agriculture and Food, Perth, 26–43.

Comments

Quality of data used in the assessment: Medium–High

​Gazey et al., 2013​ maps and reports of agricultural soil regions (approximately equalling physiographical regions) update information on south-western Western Australia.

Topics

Declines in pH restricted to areas used for cropping and grazing systems

Year(s): 
2011
2
Deteriorating
Confidence (in grade): 
Limited
Confidence (in trend): 
Limited
Comparability (to previous reports): 
Not assessed

Topics

35 Greenough Hills

Some local pockets of improvement in pH trend, but decline in pH continues

Year(s): 
2016
2
Improving
Confidence (in grade): 
Adequate
Confidence (in trend): 
Adequate
Comparability (to previous reports): 
Somewhat comparable

35 Greenough Hills

20162011
Land
State and trends

Approach/Process

SoE 2011 assessments of grade and trends were updated using state agency data, when available.

Data/Information sources

pH was modelled using the TERN Soil–Landscape Grid of Australia to determine grade (http://www.clw.csiro.au/aclep/tern/).

Relevant publication since the 2011 assessment:

Gazey et al., 2013

 

Gazey et al., 2013

Gazey C, Andrew J & Griffin T (2013). Soil acidity. In: Noel Schoknecht N, Bicknell D, Ruprecht J, Smith F & Massenbauer A (eds), Report card on sustainable natural resource use in agriculture: status and trend in the agricultural areas of the south-west of Western Australia, Western Australian Department of Agriculture and Food, Perth, 26–43.

Comments

Quality of data used in the assessment: Medium–High

​Gazey et al., 2013​ maps and reports of agricultural soil regions (approximately equalling physiographical regions) update information on south-western Western Australia.

Topics

Significant acidification of both surface and subsurface horizons on noncalcareous soils used for cropping

Year(s): 
2011
3
Deteriorating
Confidence (in grade): 
Limited
Confidence (in trend): 
Limited
Comparability (to previous reports): 
Not assessed

Topics

36 Woodramung Hills

Some local pockets of improvement in pH trend, but decline in pH continues

Year(s): 
2016
2
Deteriorating
Confidence (in grade): 
Adequate
Confidence (in trend): 
Adequate
Comparability (to previous reports): 
Comparable

36 Woodramung Hills

20162011
Land
State and trends

Approach/Process

SoE 2011 assessments of grade and trends were updated using state agency data, where available.

Data/Information sources

pH modelled using TERN Soil–Landscape Grid of Australia to determine grade (http://www.clw.csiro.au/aclep/tern/).

Relevant publication since the 2011 assessment:

Gazey et al., 2013

 

Comments

Quality of data used in the assessment: Medium–High:

Gazey et al., 2013 map and report on agricultural soil regions (approximately equalling physiographic regions), which updates southwestern Western Australia.

Topics

Significant acidification and low pH in the western part of the region used for cropping

Year(s): 
2011
2
Deteriorating
Confidence (in grade): 
Limited
Confidence (in trend): 
Limited
Comparability (to previous reports): 
Not assessed

Topics

37 Carnarvon and Top End Coastal Plains

Probable declining pH in agricultural areas used for intensive irrigation and horticulture

Year(s): 
2016
3
Deteriorating
Confidence (in grade): 
Very limited
Confidence (in trend): 
Very limited
Comparability (to previous reports): 
Not assessed

37 Carnarvon and Top End Coastal Plains

20162011
Land
State and trends

Approach/Process

SoE 2011 assessments of grade and trends were updated using state agency data, where available.

Data/Information sources

pH was modelled using the TERN Soil–Landscape Grid of Australia to determine grade (http://www.clw.csiro.au/aclep/tern/).

Relevant publication since the 2011 assessment:

Gazey et al., 2013

 

Gazey et al., 2013

Gazey C, Andrew J & Griffin T (2013). Soil acidity. In: Noel Schoknecht N, Bicknell D, Ruprecht J, Smith F & Massenbauer A (eds), Report card on sustainable natural resource use in agriculture: status and trend in the agricultural areas of the south-west of Western Australia, Western Australian Department of Agriculture and Food, Perth, 26–43.

Comments

Quality of data used in the assessment:

Low: No data for this region in Gazey et al. (2013) maps and reports of agricultural soil regions (approximately equalling physiographic regions) which only update southwestern Western Australia

Topics

Declining pH in agricultural areas used for intensive irrigation and horticulture

Year(s): 
2011
3
Deteriorating
Confidence (in grade): 
Limited
Confidence (in trend): 
Limited
Comparability (to previous reports): 
Not assessed

Topics

38 Daly Basin

Probable declining pH in areas used for horticulture and more intensive pastoral development

Year(s): 
2016
3
Unclear
Confidence (in grade): 
Very limited
Confidence (in trend): 
Low
Comparability (to previous reports): 
Somewhat comparable

38 Daly Basin

20162011
Land
State and trends

Approach/Process

SoE 2011 assessments of grade and trends were updated using state agency data, where available.

Data/Information sources

pH was modelled using the TERN Soil–Landscape Grid of Australia to determine grade (http://www.clw.csiro.au/aclep/tern/).

 

Comments

Nil.

Topics

Declining pH in areas used for horticulture and more intensive pastoral development

Year(s): 
2011
3
Deteriorating
Confidence (in grade): 
Limited
Confidence (in trend): 
Limited
Comparability (to previous reports): 
Not assessed

Topics

Assessment Summary Key

Grades

Very good

Current management is  adequate, and a low level of monitoring is required

Good

Needs management and monitoring, otherwise returns will be threatened

Poor

Urgent amelioration is needed. Yields and returns are compromised, and returns are currently threatened

Very poor

Beyond economic recovery; yields are no longer economic. Current system untenable, with limited options

Recent Trends

  • Improving

  • Stable

  • Deteriorating

  • Unclear

Confidence

  • Adequate: Adequate high-quality evidence and high level of consensus

  • Somewhat adequate: Adequate high-quality evidence or high level of consensus

  • Limited: Limited evidence or limited consensus

  • Very limited: Limited evidence and limited consensus

  • Low: Evidence and consensus too low to make an assessment

Comparability

  • Comparable: Grade and trend are comparable to the previous assessment

  • Somewhat comparable: Grade and trend are somewhat comparable to the previous assessment

  • Not comparable: Grade and trend are not comparable to the previous assessment

  • Not previously assessed

Metcalfe D, Bui E (2016). Land: State and trends of soil acidification. In: Australia state of the environment 2016, Australian Government Department of the Environment and Energy, Canberra, https://soe.environment.gov.au/assessment-summary-52-state-and-trends-soil-acidification-0, DOI 10.4226/94/58b6585f94911