Modelling for sustainable production of salt-tolerant eucalypt hybrids on saline discharge sites

Specifications

• Client: Rural Industries Research and Development Corporation
• Scope:

  In collaboration with CSIRO Land and Water and Victorian Forest Science Centre, modelling for sustainable production of salt-tolerant eucalypt hybrids on saline discharge sites including:

  • Soil EM 38 surveys and calibration to measured salinity
  • characterisation and monitoring of soil physical and chemical characteristics
  • monitoring of climate and water availability
  • monitoring of growth and productivity
  • model calibration to field observations
  • short and long term scenario modelling
  • discussion of modelling implication

  'Modelling ror sutainable production of salt-tolerant eucalypt hybrids on saline discharge sites' 

• Challenge:

  Prior studies had provided variable results on the application of salt-tolerant, deep rooted perennial vegetation as a means to manage dryland salinity, casting doubt on appropriate approaches to manage this issue.

• Solution:

  Verterra identified the need for an integrative study to develop a systems-based approach to understanding the integration of salt, water and vegetation. Through development of a mechanistic understanding, Verterra was able to identify management approaches to achieve predictable outcomes.

• Benefit to Client:

  This detailed research and development project delivered:

  • improved understanding of the sensitivity of environmental factors as they affect tree growth and commercial yield
  • improved understanding of the interaction of soil water and salt with varying degrees of salt tolerance of specific species and genotypes
  • improved understanding of the range of hydrological scenarios under which productive tree growth can be been sustained

  Outcomes of this project have subsequently underpinned large scale irrigated plantation developments utilising saline-sodic water, particularly in the coal seam gas sector.

• Market Sector: Research
• Capabilities:
  • Groundwater and salinity management
  • General land, water and vegetation technical services
  • Research Services
• Location: Australia
• Year: 2001 - 2002 - 2003 - 2004 - 2005 - 2006