The farming and development of land where acid sulfate soils occur is an environmental
issue for sustainable sugar cane production in northern NSW. An initial farm-sampling
project established the acid sulfate hazard on every cane farm in NSW in order to
develop effective and sustainable management. Acid hazard and drain management
plans have been developed for all cane farms in NSW and the industry has progressed
towards the first approved self-regulation scheme for agricultural activities in acid
sulfate soil areas in Australia. NSW cane growers are aware of their responsibilities in
relation to acid sulfate soils, and manage existing canelands according to best practice
guidelines for acid sulfate soils. The NSW sugar industry has received commendations
from the community and government for the approach taken in the understanding and
management of acid sulfate soils. The project received a Gold Award and Award for
Excellence from RiverCare 2000 for outstanding achievement in environmental
management. Achieving self-regulation has come at a significant cost of about $lM.
The industry is committed to an ongoing cost for maintaining self-regulation, but this
investment has had some very positive benefits for the industry. The work undertaken is
now regarded as a model for the development of good environmental management by
other agricultural industries.