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

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at M

t Lin

desa

y (m

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TDS

) 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 plantationsActual 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