Welcome to the May issue of the AGS Magazine which is the last edition published during my two year tenure as Chair. I would like to thank all those involved in producing the magazine during that time.

In this edition we debunk social value myths, take a look at turbidity in piling and have a Q&A with Mark Toye from Igne who is also Chair of the BDA and Ground Forum. We also thank Hugh Mallett for over 3 decades of invaluable contribution to the AGS.
Since 2024, the AGS have been compensating for carbon emissions from its in person events by contributing to the Midlands Wild Revival Fund. In this edition, we have an update on how our donations have been used.
Also in this edition, we are introduced to InterEngineering on the work they do and how we can support the LGBTQ+ community working within our industry.

An introduction to the new SiLC Employers Scheme, which aims to clearly identify which organisations are genuinely committed to quality is presented in this edition. The Environment Agency’s Land Contamination: Risk Management, requires land contamination practitioners to be competent (as defined in Annex 2 of the NPPF). The SiLC scheme is one way of demonstrating this competence.

We have several events coming up. In June we are holding a ‘Sustainability – Practical Steps for AGS Members’ webinar, where the AGS Sustainability Charter will be launched. In September the Safety working group are presenting a webinar: ‘Trial Pitting; Controlling the Risks and in December we are holding the AGS Data Conference – an in person event. I hope you will be able to join us.
Thank you to all who have contributed to the magazine over the past 2 years. Please keep up your engagement with the AGS as this helps us be an effective Trade Association for you. Finally, why not enter the AGS Photography Competition – you could win a prize!