RSMG’s David Adamson and Peggy Schrobback attended the 2nd International Salinity Forum, held from 31 March – 3 April 2008 in Adelaide, where David presented a paper on “Options for Managing Salinity in the Murray-Darling Basin under Reduced Rainfall”.
The conference provided the great opportunity to meet with experts in salinity from all over the world and discuss themes like understanding the impact of salinity on the community, policy and environment and essential management strategies. Experiences were particularly shared on progress of salinity mitigation and adaptation. Special emphasis was also put on climate change and its uncertain impact on salinity. Current salinity policies in Australia were highly criticized by leading experts in the field for failing to set achievable targets, neglecting necessary incentives for behavioral change, limited capacities and policy driven budgets.
The forum clearly stressed the importance of improved partnerships between salinity affected communities, research and funding institution. Further, it was agreed that coordination, cooperation and consensus about multidimensional issues related to salinity are gaining even more importance under drought conditions.
As part of the conference, David and Peggy got the opportunity to undertake a field excursion to Lake Alexandrina, Australia’s largest permanent freshwater lake, and Murray Bridge, where natural flood plains as important part of Lower Murray Irrigation Area with its various irrigation techniques where examined. Of course, a field trip to Adelaide’s countryside would not be complete without a visit at the lovely Hahndorf where the two could not resist indulging in German food and splendid wines.