Murray Darling - Salinization

Define salinization

The process of increasing salt concentrations within soils and water

What are the natural causes of salinization in Asutralia

• Mineral weathering - salt is naturally present due to geological processes

• Gradual withdrawal of the ocean

• Natural salt content in rainfall

How much salt is naturally held in the groundwater

100 billion tons

What are the human causes of increased salinization?

• Irrigation and overuse of chemicals and fertilisers with high salt

• Inappropriate irrigation in dry regions

• Removal of deep rooted plants

By how much did salinity increase due to irrigation?

From 580 tones to predicted 1000 tons in 2100

What does irrigation in dry regions cause?

The salty groundwater levels to increase and push water into surrounding rivers

How much has the loss in agriculture cost?

$130 million

How have the surrounding populations suffered?

Communities get their water from Adelaide river which is supplied 60% by the murray darling

What can be done?

• Aforestation of long rooted plants

• Environmental agencies raising awareness

• Water treatment facilities for desalinization

• Research institutions altering crops to absorb more salt

• Implementation of drip irrigation