Salinity Management
Saltland Genie
The Saltland Genie is a concept that has been developed from a substantial body of research and development during the highly successful national Sustainable Grazing on Saline Lands (SGSL) initiative. To visit Saltland Genie go to http://www.saltlandgenie.org.au
Introduction to acidic saline groundwater in the WA Wheatbelt
characteristics, distribution, risks and management
Department of Water
Extensive areas of the valley floors in the Western Australian Wheatbelt are already affected by shallow saline groundwaters and these areas are likely to grow for decades as groundwater levels are still rising. The use of engineering methods such as deep (2-3 m) drains and pumping to control shallow groundwater is increasing. More than 5000 km of deep drains are estimated to have been constructed to protect low-lying land from salinisation and to help rehabilitate marginally saline lands.
Treating acidity in saline water and sediments in the Wallatin Creek catchment using a hydrated lime dosing unit
Department of Water
Deep drains used to manage shallow groundwater in Wheatbelt valley floors can intercept acidic saline groundwater that may need treatment before discharge or reuse (Shand & Degens 2008).
Salinity Trend Analysis
GHD
GHD were contracted by the Avon Catchment Council to deliver elements of the 2005 2006 Investment Plan, including undertaking a salinity trend analysis of the Avon River basin. A salinity trend analysis was required to provide a better understanding of the patterns of salinity development within the region and to inform decision making associated with investment priorities.
Proposed guidelines for treating acidic drain water in the Avon catchment, Western Australia: adapting acid mine drainage treatment systems for saline acidic drains
Brad Degans, Department of Water
Using deep drainage in the WA Wheatbelt to manage shallow saline groundwater in broad valley floors can lead to discharge of acidic saline water that may require treatment of the acidity and removal of metals and minor elements before disposal or further use. The low pH and high concentrations of metals and other elements can pose environmental risks where water is discharged to creeks, floodways and lakes. The sustainable use of deep drains in managing dryland salinity will depend on meeting the pressing need to develop low-cost, practical, and effective options to treat acidity.
Using composting beds to treat acidity in saline drain water
Department of Water
Acidic saline water is common in drains used to manage shallow saline watertables in the Wheatbelt. The water often has high concentrations of dissolved aluminium, iron and trace metals such as lead, nickel, copper and zinc (Shand & Degens 2008). Such drain water would threaten aquatic and bird life in waterways and lakes if it reached these environments (Shand & Degens 2008). Treating the water to neutralise the acidity and remove dissolved metals may be needed to manage these risks.
