Monitoring and Mapping Floodplain Understorey and Short Vegetation Evapotranspiration - Progress report
Assessment of acid sulfate soil materials (Phase 2) — Nigra Creek (Wetland ID 12294) (in draft)
ASSAY newsletter — Issue 51: ‘The Murray–Darling Basin Acid Sulfate Soil Risk Assessment Project’
Recording - Outcomes presentation for the Floodplain inundation and drying project
This document includes an overview of modelling in the context of the salinity accountability framework, followed by procedures set out in 3 parts: Part 1: Procedures at the core of the BSM modelling framework. Part 2: Procedures applicable to all models that support salinity accountability. Part 3: Procedures applicable to specific types of models.
Basin salinity management procedures – modelling 2021
Basin Salinity Management 2030 South Australia’s 2019 Comprehensive Report
State Salinity Presentations, Victoria, Phil Dyson, Project Manager, North Central CMA
Drowning the Myths: the impact of flooding on groundwater within the Gunbower Forest
Assessment of acid sulfate soil materials (Phase 2) — Mypolonga Levee wetland (in draft)
This strategy, Basin salinity management 2030 (BSM2030), builds on the successes of the Basin salinity management strategy (2001–2015) to deliver a strategic, cost-efficient and streamlined program of coordinated salinity management for the next 15 years.
Understanding the contribution of groundwater to total evapotranspiration (ET) is critical for effective water resource management, particularly in groundwater-dependent ecosystems. This study focuses on partitioning total plant ET to quantify the proportion derived from groundwater sources. We applied a validated groundwater partitioning model—originally developed using a unique dataset from plantation forests in Mount Gambier—to floodplain environments. The model integrates field-scale soil moisture measurements taken at 2–4 week intervals throughout the soil profile down to the water table, enabling accurate estimation of groundwater uptake by vegetation. Model outputs were validated against observed groundwater fluctuations and demonstrated high reliability in representing groundwater extraction dynamics. We applied this model to two pilot floodplain regions, Bookpurnong and Mallee Cliffs, where long-term groundwater depth data are available. These data support an additional validation method through comparison of modelled groundwater extraction with observed fluctuations. By combining remote sensing-derived actual ET (AET) and climate inputs, the model produces spatially explicit estimates of groundwater-sourced ET at the pixel level. This approach advances a scalable method for identifying groundwater-dependent ecosystems (GDEs) and their water requirements across large floodplain areas. It provides a critical tool for assessing ecological risks, such as salinity impacts, and informing sustainable groundwater management. Deliverables include model validation in plantation settings and implementation for floodplain pilots, setting the stage for broader regional application.
Pilot study for estimating groundwater discharge across southern Murray- Darling Basin floodplains
Detailed assessment of acid sulfate soils in the Murray– Darling Basin: Protocols for sampling, field characterisation, laboratory analysis and data presentation
These basin salinity management (BSM) procedures replace the BSMS Operation Protocols. They have been prepared to provide the necessary detail to support salinity management practitioners involved in the implementation of the BSM2030 strategy.
Basin salinity management procedures 2023
Under the BSM2030 strategy, every second year the MDBA convenes a Basin salinity forum. The Basin Salinity Forum overview report includes a summary of each presentation provided at the forum, the key points raised during the emerging issues panel discussion, and a list of workshop attendees. The PowerPoint slides from each presentation are included as an appendix to the report.
Basin Salinity Forum 2019 – Overview Report
Assessment of acid sulfate soil materials (Phase 2) — Devon Downs South wetland (in draft)
APPENDIX B2 – WETLAND DESCRIPTIONS FOR ASSESSMENT OF ACID SULFATE SOIL MATERIALS IN THE LOCK 1 TO WELLINGTON REGION OF THE MURRAY-DARLING BASIN
River Management, Darren Baldwin, Principal - Rivers and Wetlands, Adjunct Research Professor - Charles Sturt University
Impact of climate change on water quality in the southern MurrayDarling Basin – welcome to the new normal
Basin Salinity Management 2030 - South Australia’s Status Report 2015-16
BSM2030 Knowledge Priorities, Chenming Zhang, Research Fellow, Geotechnical Engineering Centre, University of Queensland
Water and salt transport at the Lower River Murray Floodplain during environmental watering, flooding and drying
Reporting Template: NSW Murrumbidgee Balrandald 410130
Assessment of acid sulfate soil materials (Phase 2) — Swan Reach Complex (in draft)
Non-watertable salinity (or dry saline land) is where soil contains elevated levels of soluble salts that are not associated with a watertable. Mapping shows the degree of non-watertable salinity, based on the most saline part of the map unit (provided it occupies at least 30%), while detailed proportion data are supplied for calculating respective areas of each non-watertable salinity class (spatial data statistics).
Outcomes presentation for the Unsaturated zone data review and modelling project 2022-23
Evapotranspiration (ET) in woodlands consisted of overstorey transpiration (tree canopy), understorey ET (ground vegetation and soil), and canopy interception evaporation. These components differed in spatial and temporal patterns, particularly in riverine woodlands where understorey ET varied significantly with overstorey density. A recent MDBA project mapped understorey ET in River Red Gum (RRG) and Black Box (BB) woodlands on the River Murray floodplain using a thermodynamically based MEP model. Sap flow monitoring was conducted concurrently to estimate overstorey transpiration. This project developed a new method to map spatially distributed overstorey transpiration by upscaling sap flow data and integrating it with high-resolution thermal imagery. The aim was to produce comprehensive all-storey ET maps that accounted for water stress variability across the floodplain. Key objectives included modelling tree transpiration under varying water availability, mapping overstorey transpiration, comparing seasonal ET dynamics, and assessing flood responses in RRG and BB woodlands.
Mapping Overstorey and Understorey Evapotranspiration for Typical Woodlands on a River Murray Floodplain
Information on surface water and groundwater quantity and quality for the Namoi subregion is documented in this product. The information was captured in November 2015 and used in the evaluation of the potential impact of coal seam gas and coal mining development on water and water-dependent assets. The Namoi subregion sits within the larger Namoi river basin. The eastern part of the river basin includes three large dams – Keepit, Split Rock and Chaffey. The Namoi River is the primary surface water resource in the subregion.
Current water accounts and water quality for the Namoi subregion
A river basin scale spatial model to advance understanding of riverine tree response to hydrological management
Department of Climate Change, Energy, the Environment and Water
Reporting Template: QLD Condamine-Balonne Ballandool 422207A
Assessment of acid sulfate soil materials (Phase 2) — Paiwalla managed wetland (in draft)
Reporting Template: NSW Lachlan Forbes 412004
Phase 1 CSIRO Lock 3 to 4 detailed Acid Sulfate Soil Materials App B3
Under the BSM2030 strategy, every second year the MDBA is required to prepare a BSM2030 status report. This is the third BSM2030 status report prepared by the MDBA, providing an update on strategy implementation.
Basin salinity management 2030 status report 2019–20
Fine scale mapping of fractional tree canopy cover to support river basin management
Assessment of acid sulfate soil materials (Phase 2) — Coolcha Lagoon (in draft)
Reporting Template: QLD Condamine-Balonne Narran 422030
Assessment of acid sulfate soil materials (Phase 2) — Boiling Downs Creek (Wetland ID 20177) (in draft)
Outcomes presentation: Floodplain Woody Vegetation Evapotranspiration project
Assessment of acid sulfate soil materials (Phase 2) — Teal Flat Hut (downstream) wetland (in draft)
A salinity indicator is a sign or symptom that suggests an area is experiencing the impacts of salinity.
Report of the Independent Audit Group for Salinity 2012-2013
‘Watching the shop’ – a revised Basin Salinity Management approach to salinity accountability in dryland landscapes
This product, current in March 2015, identifies the sources of information known to be available for current water accounts and water quality in the Central West subregion. The Central West subregion is in the Murray-Darling Basin in central New South Wales. It is part of the Northern Inland Catchments bioregion. The main cities and towns in the subregion are Dubbo, Coonabarabran, Coonamble, Gilgandra and Nyngan. The main rivers are the Macquarie, Castlereagh and Bogan rivers.
Current water accounts and water quality for the Central West subregion
This booklet is designed to help you understand the basic processes and impacts of dryland salinity.
Assessment of acid sulfate soil materials (Phase 2) — Tailem Bend wetland (in draft)
Distribution and ecological risk of reduced inorganic sulfur compounds in river and creek channels of the Murray-Darling Basin. Stage one: desktop assessment
Speakers providing addresses at the 2024 MD-WERP Annual Science Symposium.
Reporting Template: QLD Condamine-Balonne Braire 422211A
Reporting Template: SA River Murray Lock 6 426510
Managing dryland salinity successfully requires treatment of both the causes and the symptoms.Treatment of the symptoms of salinity in a local area requires a targeted and site specific approach. There are a range of different management options that can be combined to take account of the diverse climate, soils, hydrology and agricultural practices within a region. Rehabilitating saline land can reduce the rate at which salinity is spreading and decrease the area of land affected.
Book 4 Dryland Salinity: Productive Use of Saline Land and Water
Assessment of acid sulfate soil materials (Phase 2) — Wellington North (Murrundi) wetland (in draft)
Improving our capacity to manage hypoxic blackwater events in lowland rivers: The Blackwater Risk Assessment Tool
Generation of tree-specific spatial evapotranspiration data to monitor the response of woody vegetation to water availability
Salinity and soil health: The key indicators to look for if salt is an issue on your farm
Big Toolunka Flat (12064) wetland, South Australia
APPENDIX B4 – WETLAND DESCRIPTIONS FOR ASSESSMENT OF ACID SULFATE SOIL MATERIALS IN THE LOCK 1 TO WELLINGTON REGION OF THE MURRAY-DARLING BASIN
Assessment of acid sulfate soil materials in the Mildura region of the Murray–Darling Basin
Assessment of acid sulfate soil materials in Ramsar wetlands of the Murray Darling Basin: Kerang Lakes (in draft)
Bioregional assessments are world-first science-based studies that developed detailed, multi-layered records of the environment and provided a comprehensive suite of baseline data, information and analysis about water resources in each region. The assessments examined the potential impacts of CSG and large coal mining developments on water resources, above and below ground. This included the possible direct, indirect and cumulative impacts of likely mining developments in each study area.
3rd Basin Salinity Forum 2021 - Invitation and Program
Assessment of acid sulfate soil materials in Ramsar wetlands of the Murray– Darling Basin: Gwydir Wetlands
It is possible to gain a much better understanding of the dryland salinity process by examining the individual factors that contribute to it. Through understanding each component of the process, effective and economic salinity management options can be selected. Targeted management based on sound understanding of processes will enable both the symptoms and the causes of dryland salinity to be addressed.
This report highlights the status of salinity in the Murray–Darling Basin during 2019–20. It also identifies the key outcomes and achievements from 2019–20.
Reporting Template: NSW Macquarie Carinda 421012
Development of transfer functions and guidance for modelling irrigation recharge in the Mallee
Assessment of acid sulfate soil materials in the Talwood–Mungindi region of the Murray–Darling Basin
Campbell Fitzpatrick Lead Auditor, Independent Audit Group for Salinity 2023
Constraining organic matter composition and dynamics as a dominant driver of hypoxic blackwater risk during river Murray floodplain inundation
Thesis can be accessed through the university library via download (02whole.pdf)
Methods to assess environmental flow and groundwater management scenarios for floodplain tree health in the Lower River Murray.
Review of the elevated salinity event in the lower Darling River March–April 2020
Scientific method presented to derive tree fractional canopy cover (FTCC) at 20 m resolution in semi-arid and arid floodplain areas. The method employs LiDAR as a canopy area field measurement proxy (10 m resolution) for two regions in the Murray–Darling Basin.
We present a model, HaughFlow, which is able to predict coupled water movement in the vadose and phreatic zones of hydraulically connected floodplains. Model output was calibrated and evaluated at six sites in Australia to identify key patterns in subsurface hydrology.
Modeling Subsurface Hydrology in Floodplains
End Of Valley Target site template status
BASIN SALINITY MANAGEMENT 2030 SOUTH AUSTRALIA’S BIENNIAL REPORT 2017
Paringa Paddock (12087) wetland, South Australia
APPENDIX B3 – WETLAND DESCRIPTIONS FOR ASSESSMENT OF ACID SULFATE SOIL MATERIALS IN THE LOCK 1 TO WELLINGTON REGION OF THE MURRAY-DARLING BASIN
Little Toolunka Flat (12209) wetland, South Australia
This booklet provides an overview of how to undertake a visual assessment of a site for the presence of salinity and the choice and use of appropriate tests to confirm and quantify the severity of salinity in the area.
Book 2 Dryland Salinity: Identifying Saline Sites
Murtho post high river floods April 2023
Reporting Template: VIC Avoca Quambatook 408203
Assessment of acid sulfate soil materials (Phase 2) — Fivebough and Tuckerbil Swamps (in draft)
Assessment of acid sulfate soil materials in Ramsar wetlands of the Murray– Darling Basin: Fivebough & Tuckerbil swamps
Under the BSM2030 strategy, Basin governments committed to the coordinated review of in-river elevated salinity events. This report identifies the cause, impacts, effectiveness of management responses, outcomes and achievements following the lower Darling elevated salinity event in March–April 2020.
Monitoring and Mapping Floodplain Understorey and Short-Vegetation Evapotranspiration
Assessment of acid sulfate soil materials (Phase 2) — Devon Downs North wetland (in draft)
This booklet is part of the Local Government Salinity Initiative (LGSI) series. It provides information on ‘waterwise’ practices that can be employed when public areas are created and maintained for recreation and aesthetic appeal.
Phase 1 CSIRO Lock 4 to 5 detailed Acid Sulfate Soil Materials App B4
Report of the Independent Audit Group for Salinity 2011-2012
Low Resolution Mapping Irrigated Area 2021
Hydrogeological Landscape (HGL) boundaries and descriptions have been derived for a number of project areas across NSW. The HGL concept provides a structure for the understanding of how salinity manifests itself in the landscape and how differences in salinity are expressed across the landscape. A HGL spatially defines areas of similar salt stores and pathways for salt mobilisation. The process of HGL determination relies on the integration of a number of factors: geology, soils, slope, regolith depth, and climate; an understanding of the differences in salinity development; and the impacts (land salinity/salt load/water electrical conductivity) in landscapes. Information sources such as soil maps, site characterisation, salinity site mapping, hydrogeological conditions and surface and groundwater data are combined to develop standard descriptions for each HGL unit. Derivative maps showing _overall salinity hazard_ and individual hazard due to salinity expressed as _land salinity, salt export (load)_ and _stream EC_ are available for most mapped areas, and are also viewable as custom layers in [eSPADE](http://www.environment.nsw.gov.au/espade2webapp). Overall salinity hazard uses a five class system (very low, low, moderate, high, very high). This helps the user identify and prioritise where salinity management actions may need to be targeted. Hazard due to salt land, salt export and stream EC uses a three class system (low, moderate, high). Knowing which of these are of greater significance in a HGL unit helps the user decide on the types of management actions that may be applied. Spatial resolution varies between 1:50 000 and 1:250 000, depending on the resolution of the source data used to define the HGL boundaries.
Hydrogeological Landscapes of New South Wales and the Australian Capital Territory
Edward - Wakool: Appendix 3. Bathymetry and sulfide spatial distribution maps for Component 2.
Keynote Speaker, Don Bruce, Chair of Little River Landcare Group
Catchment salinity change management from a landholder and Landcare perspective in Central West NSW
Module 3: Guidelines for identifying high ecological value aquatic ecosystems (HEVAE)
Assessment of acid sulfate soil materials (Phase 2) — Younghusband West wetland (in draft)
Climate change and environmental water reallocation in the Murray–Darling Basin: Impacts on flows, diversions and economic returns to irrigation
Assessment of acid sulfate soil materials (Phase 2) — Yarramundi North (Morgan’s Lagoon) (in draft)
Assessment of acid sulfate soil materials (Phase 2) — Portee Creek (in draft)
The water flowing into the excavation is termed groundwater. Continue digging and the water in the pores will continue flowing into the hole until it reaches a constant level. This level is termed the water table.
Groundwater Basics for Understanding Urban Salinity
Victorian Accountable Salinity Impacts Summary (2020)
Reporting Template: VIC Broken Caseys Weir 404217
Basin Salinity Management 2030 - South Australia’s Status Report 2021-22
This book describes salinity management options that provide environmental benefits, while at the same time enabling the productive use of saline land and water.
Murtho first e-watering inundation March 2021 - comparison photo
The Dammed and the Saved: a Conservation Triage Framework for Wetlands under Climate Change in the Murray–Darling Basin, Australia
Riverine freshwater plumes are the major transport mechanism for nutrients, sediments and pollutants. This paper explores using a physics based model using non-algal particulate matter and coloured dissolved organic matter (CDOM) as a useful surrogate for salinity in Great Barrier Reef coastal waters. Satellite remote sensing is a cost effective method for large scale mapping of CDOM. Remotely sensed freshwater extent is significantly correlated with river discharge.
Inter-annual variability of wet season freshwater plume extent into the Great Barrier Reef lagoon based on satellite coastal ocean colour observations
This summary report highlights the status of salinity in the Murray-Darling Basin during 2015–16. It identifies the key outcomes for the reporting period and the priorities for implementing the BSM2030 strategy in 2016–17
Basin salinity management 2030 summary report 2015–16
Eco Logical Australia (ELA) was commissioned by the Murray Darling Basin Authority (MDBA) to map the distribution of plant community types (PCTs) within a large section of the Darling floodplain west of Louth, and within the Condamine-Balonne system south of the NSW-Queensland border. For more information please refer to the technical report Eco Logical Australia 2015. Vegetation of the Barwon-Darling and Condamine-Balonne floodplain systems of New South Wales: Mapping and survey of plant community types.
Murray-Darling Basin floodplain vegetation mapping
This report reviews the adopted hypothesis that Mallee vegetation clearance and its replacement with shallow-rooted dryland farming systems results in enhanced root zone drainage and increased (but delayed) groundwater recharge that would drive more salt into the River Murray.
Mallee legacy of history: salinity impacts from dryland vegetation clearance
A collection of perspectives regarding the success and outcomes of the FLOW-MER program in the Lower Goulburn River. Includes observations and research from community members, scientists and managers.
Outcomes of environmental watering in the Lower Goulburn
Assessment of acid sulfate soil materials in Ramsar wetlands of the Murray– Darling Basin: Narran Lake Nature Reserve
Floodplain inundation and drying project - 2023-2024
Assessment of acid sulfate soil materials (Phase 2) — Paringa Paddock wetland (Wetland ID 12087) (in draft)
Wetlands greater than 5ha were identified using a combination of an unsupervised classification of spectral classes of Landsat MSS imagery and ancillary wetland information to create information classes of broad wetland groups (Floodplain wetlands, freshwater lakes, saline lakes, and reservoirs).
Wetlands GIS of the Murray-Darling Basin
Salinity is a significant management challenge and poses ongoing environmental, social and economic risks in the Murray–Darling Basin. Salinity is forecast to continue to increase over time and requires careful ongoing management to prevent a return to the highly saline conditions of previous decades. The Murray–Darling Basin Authority (MDBA) and Basin governments have a long and successful history of working together to manage salinity. The current strategy (BSM2030) has been in place since 2015 and will deliver a program of coordinated salinity management until 2030. The focus of BSM2030 is to: * maintain the cap on salinity through the existing Basin Salinity Target and the existing accountability framework * bring environmental water fully into the accountability framework in a practical and pragmatic way * explore opportunities to responsively manage salt interception schemes so that operations can be further optimised and costs can be reduced when river salinity is forecast to be low * support Basin Plan flow management obligations to have regard to the salinity targets for managing water flows * support basin states managing salinity in their catchments through their land and water management plans and be consistent with their Basin Plan water resource plan obligations * develop fit-for-purpose governance arrangements which reduce the frequency of audit, reporting and reviews * invest in knowledge to reduce uncertainty and potentially avoid the need for future capital investment in new joint works and measures * undertake a major strategic review to ensure the strategy continues to guide effective management of salinity in the basin.
Basin salinity management 2030: strategies and reports
Reporting Template: SA Below Morgan 426522
Assessment of acid sulfate soil materials (Phase 2) — Bet Bet Creek (in draft)
Assessment of acid sulfate soil materials (Phase 2) — Berri Disposal Basin (Wetland ID 12095) (in draft)
APPENDIX B5 – WETLAND DESCRIPTIONS FOR ASSESSMENT OF ACID SULFATE SOIL MATERIALS IN THE LOCK 1 TO WELLINGTON REGION OF THE MURRAY-DARLING BASIN
Information on surface water and groundwater quantity and quality in the Maranoa-Balonne-Condamine subregion is documented in this product. The information was captured in October 2015 and used in the evaluation of the potential impact of coal seam gas and coal mining development on water and water-dependent assets. In the Maranoa-Balonne-Condamine subregion there are three major sources of water: the Condamine-Balonne River (including the Maranoa River), the Moonie River and the portion of the Border Rivers river basin that lies in Queensland.
Current water accounts and water quality for the Maranoa-Balonne-Condamine subregion
This booklet is largely a literature review of existing information on the inter-relationship between roads and salinity.
Development of a Fast and Accurate Hybrid Model for Floodplain Inundation Simulations
This interactive map shows groundwater tables at individual monitoring bores in the Shepparton Irrigation Region from the mid/late 2000s to the present.
Shepparton Irrigation Region Groundwater Levels
Concentrated salts can have an impact on the durability of some building materials.
Adaptive Management of Return Flows: Lessons from a Case Study in Environmental Water Delivery to a Floodplain River
Modelled projections for the benchmark period (1988-2000) for Basin-wide End Of Valley Target (EOVT) sites. The datasets were prepared for the 2010 Salinity Targets Review (SKM 2010), and offer the most complete and consistent (and most up to date) historical dataset currently available at the time of publishing this resource. This data comprises a mixture of both recorded and modelled data sets.
Benchmark period datasets for End Of Valley Target (EOVT) sites
Under the BSM2030 strategy, every second year the MDBA is required to prepare a BSM2030 status report. This is the second BSM2030 status report prepared by the MDBA, providing an update on strategy implementation.
Basin salinity management 2030 status report 2017-18
Modelling tool for predicting dissolved oxygen and dissolved organic carbon in flood return water, using minimal data inputs.
In 2017, a review of approaches to modelling irrigation recharge found: A lack of suitable modelling tools available to account for unsaturated processes (e.g. perching) that affect timing and magnitude of salt loads; inconsistent approach to deriving irrigation recharge using forward or inverse modelling approaches. Objectives of the transfer function program framed around addressing these knowledge gaps: To develop and test transfer functions / recharge models suitable for salinity assessment modelling; to develop and test hybrid / joint calibration (JC) modelling techniques that use recharge models developed.
Development of transfer functions for irrigation recharge
Reporting Template: QLD Condamine-Balonne Bokhara 422209A
Assessment of acid sulfate soil materials (Phase 2) Ajax Achilles (12298) South Australia
Commonwealth Environmental Water Holder’ Science Program: Flow Monitoring, Evaluation and Research Program. The aim of this research project was to develop a tenable continuous, long-term, Basin-scale spatial data timeseries to aid monitoring of trees across the Basin, especially in unmonitored areas. The dataset developed, provides monthly values of tree specific evapotranspiration (ET) from 2000 to current with 30 m spatial resolution.
Reporting Template: QLD Condamine-Balonne Culgoa 422015
Distribution and hazard of sulfidic sediments in a river and creek channel system of the Murray Darling Basin: Edward-Wakool channel system case study.
This study further develops the LSG model to simulate water depth as well as flood extent and demonstrates its efficacy as a surrogate for a high-resolution hydrodynamic model with an unstructured grid. The further developed LSG model is evaluated on the flat and complex Chowilla floodplain of the Murray River in Australia and accurately predicts both depth and extent of the flood inundation, while being 12 times more computationally efficient than a high-resolution hydrodynamic model.
Basin Salinity Management 2030 - South Australia’s Status Report 2019-20
Nationally agreed framework that provides a set of good practice tools provided by the Commonwealth Environmental Water Holder. Supports mapping, classifying and assessing the condition of aquatic ecosystems, and provides guidance to identify high ecological value aquatic ecosystems.
Assessment of Acid Sulfate Soil Materials in the Lock 1 to Wellington Region of the Murray-Darling Basin
Campbell Fitzpatrick, Lead Auditor, Independent Audit Group for Salinity 202
Assessment of acid sulfate soil materials (Phase 2) — Brickworks Lagoon (Wetland ID 40864) (in draft)
Salinity targets review: Environmental values and data analysis
Assessment of acid sulfate soil materials in Ramsar wetlands of the Murray– Darling Basin: Macquarie Marshes
This booklet outlines some useful information resources for beginning a salinity hazard investigation.
Broad Scale Resources for Urban Salinity Assessment
Assessment of acid sulfate soil materials (Phase 2) — Glen Esk Rusty Waterhole (Wetland ID 28200) (in draft)
Technical presentations and reports regarding findings of Environmental Effects Statement/Environment assessments of Victorian Murray Floodplain Restoration Projects, as required by DELWP.
The Floodplain inundation and drying project was conducted by the University of Queensland, the South Australian Department for Environment and Water, and the MDBA. This project aimed to improve the understanding of water and salt movement in lower River Murray floodplains following inundation. This presentation provided an opportunity for salinity managers, environmental water managers, and river managers to be presented with the outcomes emerging from this research project. Results were presented from the second phase of research (July 2021 to June 2022) looking at the overall water and salt mass balance, through all pathways (i.e. evaporation, infiltration and groundwater recharge). Conceptualisation of mechanisms underpinning these processes has improved, as well as how the numerical models built in phase one (2020-21) were refined were also presented.
Floodplain inundation and drying project 2021-22
Assessment of acid sulfate soil materials (Phase 2) — Ukee Boat Club wetland (in draft)
APPENDIX B1 – WETLAND DESCRIPTIONS FOR ASSESSMENT OF ACID SULFATE SOIL MATERIALS IN THE LOCK 1 TO WELLINGTON REGION OF THE MURRAY-DARLING BASIN
Dissolved salts may crystallise and exert pressure within the road fabric.
Adaptive Management of Return Flows: Lessons from a Case Study in Environmental Water Delivery to a Floodplain River Environmental return flows (the managed delivery of wetland water to an adjacent river) can be used strategically to facilitate natural ecosystem connectivity, enabling the transfer of nutrients, energy, and biota from wetland habitats to the river. Using an informal adaptive management framework, we delivered return flows from a forested wetland complex into a large lowland river in south-eastern Australia.
South Australia’s 2021 Comprehensive Report
Basin Salinity Management 2030 South Australia’s 2021 Comprehensive Report
Gridded evapotranspiration estimates every 8 days at 250m resolution for Australia. Based on the the algorithm of Guerschman et al 2009. Start date: 2000-02-18, end date, 2016-02-10.
CMRSET Bias-Corrected Evapotranspiration Time Series for Australia
This booklet explains some of the opportunities and benefits of addressing urban salinity through the land use planning and development assessment process.
BSMS Mid-Term Review - A review of the Murray Darling Basin Salinity Management Strategy – the role and effectiveness of Catchment Actions
Groundwater bore data in the Shepparton Irrigation Region
This report highlights the status of salinity in the Murray–Darling Basin during 2021–22. It also identifies the key outcomes and achievements from 2021–22.
Annual reports and summaries: Basin salinity management 2030 summary report 2021–22
"SCHEDULE B—BASIN SALINITY MANAGEMENT" contained within the Water Act 2007
Reporting Template: NSW Barwon Darling Wilcannia 425008
Under the BSM2030 strategy, every second year the MDBA is required to prepare a BSM2030 status report. This is the fourth BSM2030 status report prepared by the MDBA, providing an update on strategy implementation.
Basin salinity management 2030 status report 2021–22
State Salinity Presentations, South Australia, Juliette Woods, Principal Groundwater Modeller, South Australian Department for Environment and Water
Post-flood salinity impacts in South Australia: historical data and modelling
This is the second comprehensive report prepared by the MDBA under the BSM2030 strategy highlighting progress in implementing basin-wide salinity management. The report provides an overview of outcomes and achievements against the key elements of the BSM2030 strategy and includes the executive summaries from the report prepared by each of the Basin States and the Australian Government.
Basin salinity management 2030 comprehensive report 2018–19
Reporting Template: VIC Kiewa Bandiana 402205
Reporting Template: VIC Ovens Peechelba East 403241
The NSW Salinity Strategy provides a framework within which the problem of salinity can be addressed and managed.
Local Government Salinity Initiative – Introduction to Urban Salinity
Reporting Template: MDB Murray Darling Basin 426554
State Salinity Presentations, New South Wales, Allan Nicholson & Andrew Wooldridge, NSW Department of Planning and Environment
The complexity of salinity management in catchments - a Lachlan Catchment perspectiv
This product, captured in March 2015, identifies the sources of information known to be available for current water accounts and water quality. The Gwydir subregion is part of the Northern Inland Catchments bioregion. The subregion is entirely within the Murray–Darling Basin. Moree is the largest town and the main rivers are the Gwydir and Macintyre-Barwon rivers. The subregion extends westward from the lower slopes of the New England Tablelands onto the low-lying riverine plains of the Barwon-Darling river system.
Current water accounts and water quality for the Gwydir subregion
Care must be taken when attempting to diagnose urban salinity from any one symptom as there may be other explanations other than urban salinity. This pamphlet has attempted to cover a broad range of common symptoms of urban salinity.
Assessment of acid sulfate soil materials (Phase 2) — Lake Carlet (in draft)
Assessment of acid sulfate soil materials (Phase 2) — Swan Reach Ferry wetland (in draft)
Abstract Ecological condition continues to decline in arid and semi-arid river basins globally due to hydrological over-abstraction combined with changing climatic conditions. Whilst provision of water for the environment has been a primary approach to alleviate ecological decline, how to accurately monitor changes in riverine trees at fine spatial and temporal scales, remains a substantial challenge. This is further complicated by constantly changing water availability across expansive river basins with varying climatic zones. Within, we combine rare, fine-scale, high frequency temporal in-situ field collected data with machine learning and remote sensing, to provide a robust model that enables broadscale monitoring of physiological tree water stress response to environmental changes via actual evapotranspiration (ET). Physiological variation of Eucalyptus camaldulensis (River Red Gum) and E. largiflorens (Black Box) trees across 10 study locations in the southern Murray-Darling Basin, Australia, was captured instantaneously using sap flow sensors, substantially reducing tree response lags encountered by monitoring visual canopy changes. Actual ET measurement of both species was used to bias correct a national spatial ET product where a Random Forest model was trained using continuous timeseries of in-situ data of up to four years. Precise monthly AMLETT (Australia-wide Machine Learning ET for Trees) ET outputs in 30 m pixel resolution from 2012 to 2021, were derived by incorporating additional remote sensing layers such as soil moisture, land surface temperature, radiation and EVI and NDVI in the Random Forest model. Landsat and Sentinal-2 correlation results between in-situ ET and AMLETT ET returned R2 of 0.94 (RMSE 6.63 mm period−1) and 0.92 (RMSE 6.89 mm period−1), respectively. In comparison, correlation between in-situ ET and a national ET product returned R2 of 0.44 (RMSE 34.08 mm period−1) highlighting the need for bias correction to generate accurate absolute ET values. The AMLETT method presented here, enhances environmental management in river basins worldwide. Such robust broadscale monitoring can inform water accounting and importantly, assist decisions on where to prioritize water for the environment to restore and protect key ecological assets and preserve floodplain and riparian ecological function.
A river basin spatial model to quantitively advance understanding of riverine tree response dynamics to water availability and hydrological management
Edward - Wakool: Appendix 1B. Channel reports (Component 1b).
Assessment of Acid Sulfate Soil Materials in the Lock 1 to Lock 5 Region of the Murray-Darling Basin.
Reporting Template: NSW QLD Border Rivers Macintyre Mungindi 416001
Actual Evapotranspiration (AET) Explorer used to inform the TERM and CMRSET layers.
This booklet provides a methodology which looks at how to assess and quantify the impact of salinity on a proposed urban development as well as the impact of the development on the salt and water processes.
Report of the Independent Audit Group for Salinity 2014-2015
Module 4: Aquatic ecosystem delineation and description guidelines
Victorian Floodplain Management Strategy
Ajax Achilles (12298) wetland, South Australia
Assessment of acid sulfate soil materials (Phase 2) — Taworri wetland (in draft)
Assessment of acid sulfate soil materials (Phase 2) — Loch Luna wetland (Wetland ID 12531) (in draft)
Reporting Template: QLD Moonie Fenton 417204A
Pilot study for estimating groundwater discharge across southern Murray-Darling Basin floodplains
Urban salinity is causing damage in towns and cities throughout New South Wales.
Berri Disposal Basin (12095) wetland, South Australia
Shallow Groundwater in the Shepparton Irrigation Region
This project focused on local-scale interactions between groundwater, surface water, soils, and vegetation. It collates and interprets field data already collected by DEW, CSIRO, Flinders University, University of Queensland, the MDBA and SA Water. This project aimed to improve the understanding of water and salt movement in lower River Murray floodplains following inundation. This presentation was presented on 28 June 2023 via MS Teams, and provided an opportunity for salinity managers, environmental water managers, and river managers to be presented with the outcomes emerging from this research project. The immediate results from this project are relied upon by the broader floodplain processes knowledge priority under the Basin Salinity Management 2030 (BSM2030) strategy. The knowledge outcomes from this project are critical to help development of robust and higher resolution modelling for salinity and water management in the Murray-Darling Basin.
Assessment of acid sulfate soil materials (Phase 2) — Edward Wakool channel system (in draft)
BSM2030 Knowledge Priorities, Dave Appels & Tim Cummins, Frontier Economics
Demonstrating and quantifying the significant benefits of collective salinity management in the Murray-Darling Basin
BSM2030 Knowledge Priorities Huade Guan Associate Professor in Hydrology, College of Science & Engineering, Flinders University
Monitoring and modelling understorey evapotranspiration on a floodplain with heterogeneous vegetation cover
Ecological condition continues to decline in arid and semi-arid river basins globally due to hydrological over-abstraction combined with changing climatic conditions. Whilst provision of water for the environment has been a primary approach to alleviate ecological decline, how to accurately monitor changes in riverine trees at fine spatial and temporal scales, remains a substantial challenge. This is further complicated by constantly changing water availability across expansive river basins with varying climatic zones. Within, we combine rare, fine-scale, high frequency temporal in-situ field collected data with machine learning and remote sensing, to provide a robust model that enables broadscale monitoring of physiological tree water stress response to environmental changes via actual evapotranspiration (ET). Physiological variation of Eucalyptus camaldulensis (River Red Gum) and E. largiflorens (Black Box) trees across 10 study locations in the southern Murray-Darling Basin, Australia, was captured instantaneously using sap flow sensors, substantially reducing tree response lags encountered by monitoring visual canopy changes. Actual ET measurement of both species was used to bias correct a national spatial ET product where a Random Forest model was trained using continuous timeseries of in-situ data of up to four years. Precise monthly AMLETT (Australia-wide Machine Learning ET for Trees) ET outputs in 30 m pixel resolution from 2012 to 2021, were derived by incorporating additional remote sensing layers such as soil moisture, land surface temperature, radiation and EVI and NDVI in the Random Forest model. Landsat and Sentinal-2 correlation results between in-situ ET and AMLETT ET returned R2 of 0.94 (RMSE 6.63 mm period−1) and 0.92 (RMSE 6.89 mm period−1), respectively. In comparison, correlation between in-situ ET and a national ET product returned R2 of 0.44 (RMSE 34.08 mm period−1) highlighting the need for bias correction to generate accurate absolute ET values. The AMLETT method presented here, enhances environmental management in river basins worldwide. Such robust broadscale monitoring can inform water accounting and importantly, assist decisions on where to prioritize water for the environment to restore and protect key ecological assets and preserve floodplain and riparian ecological function.
This report highlights the status of salinity in the Murray–Darling Basin during 2017-18. It also identifies the key outcomes and achievements from 2017–18.
Basin salinity management 2030 summary report 2017–18
Water Law for Equity in a Changing Climate
Assessment of acid sulfate soil materials in the Edward and Wakool Rivers region of the Murray–Darling Basin
Reporting Template: SA Lock 6 to Berri 426537
A short report examining the conceptual understanding of aspects that define viable populations of dominant Murray-Darling Basin floodplain eucalypts (River Red Gum, Black Box, Coolabah trees).
Tree Recruitment and Population Demographics in the Murray-Darling Basin
MD-WERP Annual Symposium 2024 - held in Albury following the River Reflections Conference.
Proceedings from the Mallee Catchment Management Authority’s Regional Salinity Forum 19th November 2019, Mildura (Victoria
Assessment of acid sulfate soil materials (Phase 2) — Mannum Swamps (in draft)
BASIN SALINITY MANAGEMENT STRATEGY SOUTH AUSTRALIA’S ANNUAL REPORT 2014-15
BASIN SALINITY MANAGEMENT STRATEGY-SOUTH AUSTRALIA’S ANNUAL REPORT 2014-15
Reporting Template: VIC Wimmera Horsham Weir 415200
The Basin Salinity Management 2030 (BSM2030) strategy was agreed by the Murray–Darling Basin Ministerial Council (MDBMC) in 2015 and commits the partner governments to accept shared responsibility for continuing action to manage salinity in the shared water resources of the Basin. The strategy provides a framework to deliver a strategic, cost‐effective and efficient program of coordinated salinity management from 2016 to 2030. The mandatory elements of BSM2030 have been incorporated into Schedule B to the Murray–Darling Basin Agreement (Schedule 1 to the Water Act 2007 (Commonwealth)). Clause 34 of Schedule B (Annexure A) specifies that the Authority must appoint independent auditors to carry out an audit. Under the BSM2030 strategy, audit and reporting has been streamlined now that the program has matured. Commencing in 2017, auditing now occurs biennially to align with the comprehensive reporting by jurisdictions and the Murray–Darling Basin Authority (MDBA). This process ensures a fair and accurate assessment of the Contracting Governments’ and Authority’s performance against Schedule B. The auditors are called the Independent Audit Group for Salinity (IAG‐Salinity).
Reports from the Independent Audit Group for Salinity
Methods to assess environmental flow and groundwater management scenarios for floodplain tree health in the Lower River Murray: this thesis investigates the major causes of floodplain tree decline and develops methods for predicting the spatial impacts on floodplain tree health from a range of management scenarios.
Methods to assess environmental flow and groundwater management scenarios
River Red Gum Evapotranspiration station estimation
This booklet is part of the Local Government Salinity Initiative series and looks at how salts enter building materials, the effect of salt and water on some building materials and provides information available for building in saline environments.
Slide pack - University of Queensland - Outcomes of the Floodplain inundation and drying project
Reporting Template: QLD Warrego Cuttaburra Turra 423005
Monitoring and mapping floodplain understorey and short-vegetation evapotranspiration in a River Red Gum woodland at Bookpurnong, South Australia. The project was running from spring 2021 to spring 2023 with the objective to quantify temporal and spatial variation of understorey and short-vegetation ET in three sections of a floodplain with different vegetation cover.
Floodplain understorey evapotranspiration
Basin salinity management 2030 summary report 2019–20
Phase 1 CSIRO Lock 1 to 5 detailed Acid Sulfate Soil Materials
Concentrations of salt and certain kinds of salt can affect plant growth, soil chemistry and structure as well as the lifespan of materials such as bitumen, concrete, masonry and metal. This means that both ecosystems and aspects of any development can be affected.
2024 MD-WERP Annual Science Symposium program. Held in Albury following the 2024 River Reflections Conference.
As part of the Basin planning process, MDBA is developing a Murray–Darling Basin Water Quality and Salinity Management Plan (WQSMP). This review is the first in a series of four reports that documents a project conducted by Sinclair Knight Merz (SKM) for MDBA to: - review the existing end-of-valley targets under the Basin Salinity Management Strategy and Schedule B to the Murray–Darling Basin Agreement (Water Act 2007) with the expectation of providing directions on future end-of-valley targets and potential directions to integrate the existing arrangements with the Basin Planning process - develop a process for setting salinity objectives and targets for inclusion in the WQSMP - recommend salinity targets and objectives for inclusion in the WQSMP.
Assessment of acid sulfate soil materials in Ramsar wetlands of the Murray– Darling Basin: Currawinya Lakes (Currawinya National Park)
2023207 EOVT site reporting exceedance curve template instruction
Basin Salinity Management 2030 - South Australia’s Status Report 2017-18
Reporting Template: VIC Goulburn Goulburn Weir 405259
Assessment of acid sulfate soil materials (Phase 2) — Loch Garry wetland (in draft)
Reporting Template: NSW Riverine Murray Redcliffs 414204
Web page about the NSW Basin Salinity Management Program including access to the NSW BSM2030 Comprehensive Report 2021 – 2023 and NSW BSM2030 Status Report 2023 – 2024.
Report of the Independent Audit Group for Salinity 2013-2014
Assessment of acid sulfate soil materials (Phase 2) — Swanport wetland (in draft)
Flow-MER Fridays: Series 1 Webinar 6: Understanding trends of woody vegetation using field evapotranspiration and remote sensing New broadscale information to identify and understand trends in vegetation response to water are required to plan where, when, and how long, to target environmental water to specific locations in order to maintain ecosystem function. In this project we are using field collected water use data (evapotranspiration) for River red gum and Black box to calibrate the outputs of a Basin-scale remote sensing evapotranspiration model. Evapotranspiration is a surrogate for vegetation condition, and outputs of this model allow us to observe trends in vegetation condition from 2001 to current time, for each remote sensing pixel in the Murray-Darling Basin. Data can be observed at various intervals depending on the management questions, and include weekly, monthly, seasonally, annually (for example). Some questions we are exploring include: What do existing remotely sensed models tell us about the antecedent and current condition of long-lived woody floodplain vegetation at regional and Basin-scales? - How are vegetation condition and trends related to hydrology across scales including Basin-scale? - Determine condition of long-lived woody floodplain vegetation prior to the involvement of CEWH water; - Understand the influence of environmental water on woody vegetation condition
Webinar: Understanding trends of woody vegetation using field evapotranspiration and remote sensing
Assessment of acid sulfate soil materials (Phase 2) — Wellington South wetland (in draft)
Reporting Template: VIC Riverine Swan Hill 409204
Assessment of acid sulfate soil materials (Phase 2) — Forster Lagoon (in draft)
Murray-Darling Basin floodplain vegetation mapping, Darling - VIS_ID 4454
This project aimed to improve the understanding of water and salt movement in lower River Murray floodplains from River Red Gum and Black Box tree ET. This presentation provides an opportunity for salinity managers, environmental water managers, and river managers to be presented with the outcomes emerging from this research project. Background In May 2019, under the CSIRO-MDBA (Murray-Darling Basin Authority) Partnership Agreement, a project to quantify total water losses or evapotranspiration (ET) from key floodplain vegetation located over saline groundwater within the Murray-Darling Basin (MDB) began. Lack of woody vegetation ET data has been identified as a significant knowledge gap in the ability to understand and model salt mobilisation in the lower Murray. Numerical models inform management decisions by simulating the movement of water and salt within the floodplain and river channel environment. The aim of this study, therefore, was to provide robust field data of woody vegetation ET, to improve river and saline floodplain management as well as improve the accuracy of ET data used in numerical models. The field data has been used to further develop a model to predict quantified spatial monthly timeseries ET outputs from 2000 onwards, for floodplain trees across the MDB. Implications of management watering actions field locations have intentionally been selected in areas where there are predicted management actions in the future. This includes salt interception scheme manipulation to vary scheme operation, as well monitoring the influence of environmental flow actions on floodplain vegetation ET and hence response of trees to altered water availability, highlighting tree water stress changes. Sites likely to be responding to environmental flow allocations include the Bookpurnong Red Gum and Black Box, Calperum Red Gum site, Calperum Site 1 and the Lindsay flushed zone site which are likely to have benefited from the 2020 River Murray ‘southern spring flow’. The Lindsay wet site also received water in the adjacent creek in spring/summer 2020 and 2021 related to the southern spring flow. All sites were inundated with the natural River Murray flood event in the summer of 2022-23. After four years (2019-2024) of monitoring and model refinements, we can present robust data and modelling results of tree ET during managed and natural river flow events. New insights into information about groundwater extraction from tree ET processes on the floodplain will also be shared. Further information is also available in the journal article below and is freely available to access: Doody TM, Gao S, Vervoort W, Pritchard JL, Davies MJ, Nolan M, Nagler P. 2023. A river basin scale spatial model to advance understanding of riverine tree response to hydrological management. Journal of Environmental Management, 332, https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jenvman.2023.117393
Floodplain Woody Vegetation Evapotranspiration project
Information on salinity hazard is valuable for the management of existing and future buildings and infrastructure. It helps to ensure costly problems are avoided and, in areas already affected, that valuable resources are carefully targeted.
This report is the first of the biennial comprehensive implementation reports prepared by the MDBA under the BSM2030 strategy. The report provides an overview of outcomes and achievements against the key elements of the BSM2030 strategy and includes the executive summaries from each Contracting Government’s comprehensive report
Basin salinity management 2030: 2015–2017 Biennial implementation report
Learning to identify and assess the extent of dryland salinity is important for the management of affected areas. Information collected through this process may be used to classify land according to the level of salinity present, providing a guide and framework for the prioritisation of areas for intervention and the choice and implementation of salinity management options.
Assessment of acid sulfate soil materials (Phase 2) Katarapko Floodplain
SubShrub Evapotranspiration station estimation
Blank template and instruction for the salinity and salt load exceedance curves used as part of BSM2030 reporting.
End of Valley Target site reporting - Exceedance curve data template
Slide pack - MDBA and SA DEW - Outcomes presentation for the Floodplain inundation and drying project
This booklet provides a statewide overview of salinity indicator plants, which should be used in conjunction with region-specific literature and local knowledge.
Review of the elevated salinity event in the lower Darling River March–April 2020 Under the BSM2030 strategy, Basin governments committed to the coordinated review of in-river elevated salinity events. This report identifies the cause, impacts, effectiveness of management responses, outcomes and achievements following the lower Darling elevated salinity event in March–April 2020.
Elevated salinity events: Review of the elevated salinity event in the lower Darling River March–April 2020
The Dammed and the Saved: a Conservation Triage Framework for Wetlands under Climate Change in the Murray–Darling Basin, Australia: We developed a framework for conservation triage of wetlands in the Murray–Darling Basin to stimulate change in the decision context for wetland conservation and adaptation under climate change. Conservation triage entails reframing of relationships between people and nature and values, rules and knowledge used by stakeholders. Because water is the medium by which wetland conservation outcomes eventuate, trade-offs between competing water uses can be realised with the triage framework.
Conservation triage framework for wetlands
State Salinity Presentations, Queensland, Kristie Williams, Land Resource Officer, Queensland Government Department of Resources
Current salinity issues in the Queensland Murray-Darling Basin
Eight years in — perspectives on the outcomes of environmental watering in the Lower Goulburn River
Reporting Template: ACT Murrumbidgee Halls Crossing 410777
The Floodplain inundation and drying project was conducted by the University of Queensland, the South Australian Department for Environment and Water (SA DEW), and the MDBA. The 2022-23 body of work was funded by the SA DEW. This project aimed to improve the understanding of water and salt movement in lower River Murray floodplains following inundation. This phase of work investigated e-watering and inundation from the high river flood of 2022-23. Attached are drone images of the investigation site following the high river floods of 2022-23 and the outcome presentation disseminating the results.
Floodplain inundation and drying project - 2022-2023
Edward - Wakool: Appendix 1A. Channel reports (Component 1).
Lignum Evapotranspiration station estimation
eSPADE is a Google Maps-based information system that allows easy map-based access to all public soil and land information in the NSW Soil and Land Information System (SALIS), including both soil profiles and soil mapping. Also available via eSPADE are a number of Statewide soil maps, including the Land and Soil Capability and Inherent Soil Fertility maps that provide the foundation for the mapping of Biophysical Strategic Agricultural Land (BSAL). Other Statewide map layers of specific soil and land attributes are also available through eSPADE.
Edward - Wakool : Appendix 2. Channel reports (Component 2).
Reporting Template: NSW Gwydir Mehi 418058
Aerial assessment of acid sulfate soil hazards along the Darling River corridor, western New South Wales
DEECA (Victoria) - Basin Water Quality and Salinity Management landing page
Swan Reach Complex wetland, South Australia
Acid Sulfate Soils in the Murray Darling Basin
Report of the Independent Audit Group for Salinity 2009-2010
Module 5: Integrated ecosystem condition assessment
Land use planning and thinking strategically can play an important role in minimising the economic, environmental and social impacts of the interactions between development and urban salinity.
This booklet is part of the Local Government Salinity Initiative series and presents some basic groundwater concepts necessary for understanding urban salinity processes.
[Full Program](https://mdbaprdfpbokstgaue.blob.core.windows.net/prdfpbok/resources/50104c32-7f8d-43af-ad0e-917301c20cd2/d23-24712-4th-basin-salinity-forum-program.pdf) #Welcome [Welcome Campbell Fitzpatrick](https://fpbok.mdba.gov.au/dataset/4th-basin-salinity-forum/resource/12ffd365-6397-4b11-b4b0-9903b4f60041) #Keynote Speaker [Catchment salinity change management from a landholder and Landcare perspective in Central West NSW](https://fpbok.mdba.gov.au/dataset/4th-basin-salinity-forum/resource/e98b9a6f-29ef-45d8-bcfb-be96ede97d6e) #River Management [Impact of climate change on water quality in the southern Murray-Darling Basin – welcome to the new normal](https://fpbok.mdba.gov.au/dataset/4th-basin-salinity-forum/resource/9930d5dc-62c3-4eaf-8fd3-674d60ecd71f) [Using a water quality allowance to dilute salinity in the Lachlan River at Cowra](https://fpbok.mdba.gov.au/dataset/4th-basin-salinity-forum/resource/6fd32277-0d41-4ade-a544-ea1632ce5b7f) [‘Watching the shop’ – a revised Basin Salinity Management approach to salinity accountability in dryland landscapes](https://fpbok.mdba.gov.au/dataset/4th-basin-salinity-forum/resource/ee1df3dc-35d6-4fad-aa37-f9a5016ee988) #State Salinity Presentations [The complexity of salinity management in catchments - a Lachlan Catchment perspective](https://fpbok.mdba.gov.au/dataset/4th-basin-salinity-forum/resource/ac1e793e-50e1-40d2-ab2d-3314988cad19) [Drowning the Myths: the impact of flooding on groundwater within the Gunbower Forest](https://fpbok.mdba.gov.au/dataset/4th-basin-salinity-forum/resource/7de56342-fa03-4fd5-91e4-2f33bf7ba113) [Post-flood salinity impacts in South Australia: historical data and modelling](https://fpbok.mdba.gov.au/dataset/4th-basin-salinity-forum/resource/46d28c5a-08e9-4aa3-934d-f0102eae24bf) [Current salinity issues in the Queensland Murray-Darling Basin](https://fpbok.mdba.gov.au/dataset/4th-basin-salinity-forum/resource/2275c654-6383-4191-95e1-3d0702d60ded) #BSM2030 Knowledge Priorities [Monitoring and modelling understorey evapotranspiration on a floodplain with heterogeneous vegetation cover](https://fpbok.mdba.gov.au/dataset/4th-basin-salinity-forum/resource/ac5a9f47-149b-40ae-85dc-6b2e497a40a7) [Water and salt transport at the Lower River Murray Floodplain during environmental watering, flooding and drying](https://fpbok.mdba.gov.au/dataset/4th-basin-salinity-forum/resource/403bc8e9-b439-4b98-bed6-60ead8ef6415) [Demonstrating and quantifying the significant benefits of collective salinity management in the Murray-Darling Basin](https://fpbok.mdba.gov.au/dataset/4th-basin-salinity-forum/resource/c05a5c9d-28a1-4aa3-8b17-f793438cb9d7) [Launch of the Floodplain Processes Body of Knowledge website](https://fpbok.mdba.gov.au/dataset/4th-basin-salinity-forum/resource/c7dd2169-091e-4bc0-bf00-76d2943180f6) # Forum wrap up [Forum wrap up](https://fpbok.mdba.gov.au/dataset/4th-basin-salinity-forum/resource/af4becd9-1e0b-4e81-a89e-c7d2a9c1c7e3)
A thriving Murray-Darling Basin in 50 years: Actions in the face of climate change
Effects on groundwater, surface water & geology
Assessment of acid sulfate soil materials in the Victorian northern flowing rivers region of the Murray–Darling Basin
Department of Energy, Environment and Climate Action's (DEECA) Basin water quality and salinity management landing page.
DEECA (Victoria) - Basin water quality and salinity management
Module 2: Interim Australian National Aquatic Ecosystem Classification Network
Reporting Template: QLD Paroo Caiwarro 424201A
Online article communications product published on "ScienceHUB: World Knowledge Health Information Center" about salinity in the Murray Darling Basin.
Reporting Template: QLD Warrego Barringun No.2 423004
Report of the Independent Audit Group for Salinity 2015-2017
The purpose of the Murray–Darling Basin Acid Sulfate Soils Risk Assessment Project was to determine the spatial occurrence of, and risk posed by, acid sulfate soils at priority wetlands in the River Murray system, wetlands listed under the Ramsar Convention on Wetlands of International Importance and other key environmental sites in the Murray–Darling Basin. Phase 1 investigations are initially undertaken to determine whether or not acid sulfate soil materials are present in the study area, and provide characterisation of the properties and types of acid sulfate soils. Phase 2 investigations are only conducted if the acid sulfate soil materials from Phase 1 are determined to be a priority concern for the study area and, based on Phase 1 recommendations, selected samples undergo further investigations to determine the nature, severity and the specific risks associated with the acid sulfate soil materials.
Murray-Darling Basin Acid Sulfate Soils Risk Assessment Project reports
Assessment of acid sulfate soil materials (Phase 2) — Riverglades wetland (in draft)
Simulation of river flows and diversions under different climate change scenarios, using a hydrology-economics model. Observation of economic returns on irrigation.
Climate change and environmental water reallocation
Understorey evapotranspiration (ET) is an important unknown in the water balance of the Murray-Darling Basin. This study adapted a novel method, i.e., Maximum Entropy Production (MEP) ET modelling, for monitoring and mapping ET from floodplain woodland understorey and short vegetation surfaces. The understorey in a River Red Gum woodland and a Black Box woodland are investigated, together with two surfaces covered by Lignum shrubs and Copperburr bushes. The investigation is based on continuous data collection at three stations and about 30 iButton locations, and monthly drone observations, on a Murray River floodplain near Lock 4, Bookpurngong, South Australia. This progress report summarizes field instrumentation, data collection from spring 2021 to autumn 2022, relevant methods, ET modelling with the MEP-ET models and with the Bowen ratio energy balance method, and MEP-based ET mapping from drone observations.
Monitoring and Mapping Floodplain Understorey and Short Vegetation Evapotranspiration
Modeling Subsurface Hydrology in Floodplain
The 2015–16 year was the first year of reporting on BSM2030 strategy implementation. Throughout 2015–16, the MDBA and partner governments concentrated on first developing and then implementing the BSM2030 strategy.
Basin salinity management 2030 status report 2015–16
Metadata Low Resolution Irrigated Areas 2021
The Thriving Murray-Darling Basin project explores what is needed in the Basin for a resilient, healthy and sustainable river system and a thriving, resilient community in the face of a changing climate over the next 50 years. In this new essay series, ATSE urges more investment in technologies to monitor the river for climate impacts and in sustained governance with regional and rural communities at the centre, coupled with evolving our agriculture industry in the face of decreased water availability and accepted water sharing policies.
A thriving Murray-Darling Basin in 50 years
Reporting Template: VIC Loddon Laanecoorie 407203
Phase 1 CSIRO Lock 2 to 3 detailed Acid Sulfate Soil Materials App B2
Reporting Template: VIC Campaspe Campaspe 406218
Victorian floodplain management implementation snapshot 2022
Reporting Template: NSW Namoi Goangra 419026
Reporting Template: NSW Castlereagh Gungalman 420020
Reporting Template: NSW Bogan Gongolgon 421023
The report presents maps and information on irrigated horticulture in the Mallee catchment from 1997 to 2021.
A document summarising every accountable action entry on the salinity registers owned or shared by Victoria, updated to July 2020.
Assessment of Acid Sulfate Soil Materials
The Victorian Floodplain Management Strategy snapshot
Report of the Independent Audit Group for Salinity 2017-2019
Assessment of acid sulfate soil materials (Phase 2) — Jury Swamp (in draft)
CSIRO Research Publications Repository - Generation of tree-specific spatial evapotranspiration data to monitor the response of woody vegetation to water availability
Shapefiles and supplementary information
Devon Downs South wetland, South Australia
Example for calibrating the DODOC source model for data in South Australia.
Schillers Lagoon (12259), South Australia
Assessment of acid sulfate soil materials in Ramsar wetlands of the Murray– Darling Basin: Banrock Station wetland complex
"Constraining organic matter composition and dynamics as a dominant driver of hypoxic blackwater risk during river Murray floodplain inundation". Includes article and open access code used for modelling.
Organic matter as a dominant driver of hypoxic blackwater
Phase 1 CSIRO Lock 1 to 2 detailed Acid Sulfate Soil Materials App B1
By adopting ‘waterwise’ practices we may decrease the incidence and severity of urban salinity and save local government millions of dollars.
The Murray‐Darling Basin Authority (MDBA) held the third biennial Basin Salinity Forum on Tuesday 30 November 2021. Due to the evolving COVID-19 situation, the forum was held as single day online event.
Abstract: Ecological condition continues to decline in arid and semi-arid river basins globally due to hydrological over-abstraction combined with changing climatic conditions. Whilst provision of water for the environment has been a primary approach to alleviate ecological decline, how to accurately monitor changes in riverine trees at fine spatial and temporal scales, remains a substantial challenge. This is further complicated by constantly changing water availability across expansive river basins with varying climatic zones. Within, we combine rare, fine-scale, high frequency temporal in-situ field collected data with machine learning and remote sensing, to provide a robust model that enables broadscale monitoring of physiological tree water stress response to environmental changes via actual evapotranspiration (ET). Physiological variation of Eucalyptus camaldulensis (River Red Gum) and E. largiflorens (Black Box) trees across 10 study locations in the southern Murray-Darling Basin, Australia, was captured instantaneously using sap flow sensors, substantially reducing tree response lags encountered by monitoring visual canopy changes. Actual ET measurement of both species was used to bias correct a national spatial ET product where a Random Forest model was trained using continuous timeseries of in-situ data of up to four years. Precise monthly AMLETT (Australia-wide Machine Learning ET for Trees) ET outputs in 30 m pixel resolution from 2012 to 2021, were derived by incorporating additional remote sensing layers such as soil moisture, land surface temperature, radiation and EVI and NDVI in the Random Forest model. Landsat and Sentinal-2 correlation results between in-situ ET and AMLETT ET returned R2 of 0.94 (RMSE 6.63 mm period−1) and 0.92 (RMSE 6.89 mm period−1), respectively. In comparison, correlation between in-situ ET and a national ET product returned R2 of 0.44 (RMSE 34.08 mm period−1) highlighting the need for bias correction to generate accurate absolute ET values. The AMLETT method presented here, enhances environmental management in river basins worldwide. Such robust broadscale monitoring can inform water accounting and importantly, assist decisions on where to prioritize water for the environment to restore and protect key ecological assets and preserve floodplain and riparian ecological function.
Riverine tree response to water availability
Urban salinity occurs in areas where humans have changed natural ecosystems and affected the movement and storage of salts and water in the environment.
Webinar 6: Understanding trends of woody vegetation using field evapotranspiration and remote sensing
Report of the Independent Audit Group for Salinity 2010-2011
This report examines water law and policy internationally in preparing for future uncertainty in water resources. This report investigates how international jurisdictions were addressing water challenges similar to those in New South Wales (NSW) and Australia. The report discusses the findings thematically. Part 1 examines climate change and drought preparedness in water law frameworks. Part 2 explores water markets, privatisation and private property rights to water, and the challenge of water equity. Part 3 discusses indigenous rights and access to water. Finally, part 4 identifies opportunities relating to water efficiency and conservation, water literacy and education, and the politics of water.
DQS – Hydrogeological Landscapes of NSW and the ACT
Assessment of acid sulfate soil materials (Phase 2) — Boeill Creek / Lagoon wetland complex (Wetland ID 21920) (in draft)
The Murray–Darling Water and Environment Research Program is a 4-year, $20 million Australian Government initiative to strengthen scientific knowledge of the Murray–Darling Basin through generating new knowledge, innovation and tools across the themes of: - climate adaptation - hydrology - environmental outcomes - social, economic and cultural outcomes. MD-WERP also assists the Australian Government in addressing Basin Plan objectives and responding to emerging issues by investing in short-term, tactical projects. Commonwealth partners (Department of Climate Change, Energy, the Environment and Water, Commonwealth Environmental Water Holder, and Murray–Darling Basin Authority) is collaborating with a research consortium to deliver research that will benefit the Basin and its communities for years to come.
Murray–Darling Water and Environment Research Program (MD-WERP)
EoVT Data Package - Benchmark period datasets
Water management in the Basin relies on a partnership between governments, industries and communities. Launched in June 2021, River Reflections provides an opportunity for all partners involved in water management to come together. The 2024 conference was held on 19 to 20 June in Albury, New South Wales – near the headwaters of the River Murray. There was also a free science symposium showcasing the very latest research from around the Basin hosted by the Murray–Darling Water and Environment Research Program to wrap up the week on Friday 21 June.
Salinity and soil health: the key indicators to look for if salt is an issue on your farm. Episode of Seeds for Success podcast.
NSW Basin Salinity Management Program webpage
Report of the Independent Audit Group for Salinity 2008-2009
Assessment of acid sulfate soil materials in Ramsar wetlands of the Murray– Darling Basin: Paroo River Wetlands
Studying the distribution and concentration of salt in soil across a saline outbreak site helps determine limitations affecting management.
Book 3 Dryland Salinity: Investigating and Assessment Techniques
This report reviews the approaches and assumptions used to estimate the salinity impact of pre-1988 irrigation development in the Mallee region, focussing specifically on how irrigation accessions and recharge are estimated and implemented by the salinity register groundwater models.
Mallee legacy of history: salinity impacts from irrigation
This booklet provides an overview of the issues that need to be considered when investigating and assessing salinity.
Assessment of acid sulfate soil materials in the River Murray, Hume to Yarrawonga region of the Murray–Darling Basin
Mypolonga Levee wetland, South Australia
Assessment of acid sulfate soil materials in Ramsar wetlands of the Murray– Darling Basin: NSW Central Murray State Forest
Reporting Template: NSW VIC Upper Murray Heywoods 409016
Assessment of acid sulfate soil materials (Phase 2) — Ramco Lagoon (Wetland ID 12046) (in draft)
Assessment of acid sulfate soil materials (Phase 2) — Craignook wetland (in draft)
River Management, Warwick Mawhinney, Senior Water Quality Officer, NSW Department of Planning and Environment
Using a water quality allowance to dilute salinity in the Lachlan River at Cowra
Assessment of acid sulfate soil materials (Phase 2) — Wakool River Billabong (Wetland ID 20246) (in draft)
A website developed by Goulburn Broken Catchment Management Authority to: 1. Provide landholders and farmers in the Shepparton Irrigation Region information about the status of salinity risk and what measures, if required, can be taken to assist them in managing the risk. 2. Provide general information to the public about salinity, its causes, impact and management options, in the context of the salinity risk and threat experience in the Shepparton Irrigation Region.
Effects on land use, community & business
BSM2030 Knowledge Priorities, Jess Thompson, Basin Salinity Management 2030, Murray-Darling Basin Authority
Launch of the Floodplain Processes Body of Knowledge website
Outcomes presentation for inundtion and drying phase 3 - July 2023
Assessment of acid sulfate soil materials (Phase 2) — Richardsons Lagoon (in draft)
Gridded evapotranspiration estimates every 8 days at 250m resolution for Australia. Based on the the algorithm of Guerschman et al 2009.