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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
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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
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