IQ publishes second title in Soil Resource Considerations series

The Institute of Quarrying (IQ) has released the second publication in its Soil Resource Considerations series, providing vital new guidance on the handling of soils throughout the life cycle of mineral workings.

Soil Resource Considerations Part 2: Handling has been authored by leading soil scientist and practitioner Dr R Neil Humphries FRSB FBSSS FIQ, whose 50-year career spans academic research, consultancy and operational management across the minerals sector. The new publication builds on Part 1 of the series (available here), which focuses on the identification and assessment of soil resources.

Part 2 addresses the topic of the Handling of soils and covers the second of the three critical aspects of sustainable mineral site development. It highlights the importance of correctly selecting and implementing the most operationally appropriate and achievable means of handling whilst ensuring the soils continue to function and deliver the intended ecosystem services following restoration. The guide outlines the legislative and policy contexts, the operational, site and soil considerations, and the suitability of the available machinery and methodologies, along with who should be identifying the practices and their certification and training. 

Dr Neil Humphries FRSB FBSSS FIQ explains:
The new publication is an important addition to the Series on soils as it bridges between the strictly technical detailing of soil handling methods (that are available on the Institute’s website (https://www.quarrying.org/soils-guidance) and integrates them with the real-life operational considerations of responsibilities, competencies, site limitations and the capability of machinery that are needed in their selection and deployment. It reinforces the role of the Soil Resource Management Plan in the communication and decision-making process throughout the life of the mineral development from project inception to site closure. 

The guide is designed for anyone involved in the planning, design and operational phases of mineral developments. This includes soil specialists, quarry managers, restoration teams, consultants, planning authorities and regulatory bodies. Its aim is to ensure soil handling is fully integrated into site design, operational planning and decision making, supported by competent personnel and continual monitoring.

Part 2 also reinforces the role of the Soil Resource and Management Plan, a key document expected for modern mineral developments. The SRMP ensures that soil resources are appropriately identified, protected, handled and replaced throughout the life of a site.

Within the wider scope of the industry, the Soil Resource Considerations series reflects IQ’s long-standing commitment to raising industry standards and supporting sustainable site restoration. The series forms part of IQ’s Environmental Management suite, first introduced in 2004 and updated to reflect contemporary practice and expectations.

Soil Resource Considerations Part 2: Handling is now available through the IQ online shop at https://shop.quarrying.org/collections/study-guides/products/soil-resource-considerations-part-2-handling.

IQ Members will receive an exclusive link to a free digital download of the resource via email on Thursday 19th March 2026.

Find out more about Soils Guidance, visit https://www.quarrying.org/soils-guidance