Rural Solutions SA has local answers to the global problem of salinity. These solutions can be applied to many problems across the world.

Over four days the 2nd International Salinity Forum held in Adelaide heard senior consultants from the SaltSmart team within Rural Solutions SA present papers and posters, organise and lead one of the forum’s field tours, and field questions at our exhibition booth. 

Consultant Andrew Harding teamed with Merv Lewis, chair of the Northern & Yorke NRM (Natural Resource Management) Board to deliver a paper describing the Board’s commitment to a rigorous planning process for salinity management.

As one of the authors of many salinity management reports, Andrew described the process of investigation, resource inventory, interpretation and formulation of on-ground action plans with catchment groups in the region. Merv happily endorsed the work of Rural Solutions SA, recommending its effective mix of sound science and practical know-how. 

This know-how was obvious on the field tour to Yorke Peninsula, where at each of the field stops farmers discussed the implementation of various salinity management options. Our hydro-geologist Chris Henschke was able to report on-site results from groundwater piezometer networks that he had installed and monitored with the help of community members.

The field tour highlighted other technologies employed by Rural Solutions SA, including groundwater modelling and EM (electromagnetic) mapping.

Leader of the SaltSmart team Trevor Dooley described the use of EM mapping to quantify change in salinity extent, with the same technology also being applicable to mining and soil surveys.

As part of a multi-state collaboration, Trevor also delivered a forum paper, drawing on salinity audit project work undertaken for several national agencies including the Bureau of Rural Sciences. The forum coincided with the publication of a booklet concerning land salinity, prepared by Rural Solutions SA for the Australian Government.

Many visitors were attracted to the Rural Solutions SA exhibition booth, where a series of consultancy reports displayed our wide experience in the environmental field. Over 70 delegates registered at the booth for subsequent communications concerning SaltSmart services. 

Caption
Trevor Dooley and Ed Strzelecki from Rural Solutions SA discussing SaltSmart Services with an overseas delegate

A 3rd Forum International Salinity Forum is mooted for Dubai in 2010.

For further information contact Trevor Dooley on 08 8568 6418