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Furthering our mission….delivering outcomes• Our purpose: “to support WA’s growth and development
by managing the availability and quality of water sustainably - now and for the future”
• Focus on water security and river health• Rigorous science; innovation; active stakeholder
engagement; finding solutions for better water use
Summary• 2012 – Government announces salinity
levels below WHO drinking guidelines• From the 70s to the 2005 Premier’s
Award to now• Kent-Denmark Recovery Team and
industry and community partnerships
How the river became salty• Trees use water• When removed, saline
groundwater rises and connects to the stream
• Salt is mobilised
Leadership; innovative solutions
• Innovative science for solutions• Key driver – Kent-Denmark Recovery
Team from 1998 • Pioneered 5 stage recovery approach• 20 years work with diverse
stakeholders
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Sal
inity
at M
t Lin
desa
y (m
g/L
TD
S) 500 mg/L target salinity
1978 Clearing controls begin
1988 Reforestation beginsLand clearing increases until
the mid to late 1970s
Observed salinity
Base (2007 land use)
1400 ha plantations
Actual salinity at mean flow
Social/economic/environmental impacts• Fresh Denmark water critical during dry periods 2007-10• Plantations established without major Government
expenditure with water benefit up to $7000 per ha• Private investment and the economic value of drinkable
water saves millions of dollars• Benefits from community/industry/government partnerships
Environmental outcomes
• Great benefits for river’s fauna and flora
• Increased biodiversity including green corridors for birds
• Farm plans integrating agriculture and the environment
Balancing development and resources • Salinity measures used where effective – telemetered
monitoring and satellite data• No need for short term solutions like water carting or
expensive desalination• Risk managed through rigorous science
Testimonials, media, awards
• “…this application put forward by the department recognising its leadership and achievements in reversing the salinity in the Denmark River, to a point where the water in that river is now considered fresh, aligns with our community’s aspirations and vision for the health of this river” – Dale Stewart, CEO, Shire of Denmark