The central Gippsland region has recorded high groundwater levels for 3 consecutive years, the highest since records began in the 1990s.
As a result, the risk of salinity damage to soil and crops is increased across the region.
Agriculture Victoria Regional Manager Irrigation, Sarah Killury said in seasons 2022-23, and 2023-24, we saw record wet periods through the summer followed by an extremely dry January to July.
‘Groundwater can contain high levels of salt, and as the groundwater recedes and the soil profile dries out, salt may be left behind.
‘We have seen soil tests come back with increased sodium and electrical conductivity, impacting pasture composition and production on farms in the Macalister Irrigation District.
‘We recommend farmers in the area talk to their agronomist and soil test areas that have been underperforming to see if salinity may be a contributing factor.’
Liz Semmens from Vast Agronomy has seen hard salt pans and scalding across paddocks.
‘Salinity impacts are often observed in low-lying, waterlogged areas of paddocks but can be difficult to spot,’ says Ms Semmens.
‘Signs include poor pasture production, leaves appearing smaller and darker than normal, salt-tolerant species beginning to dominate, vegetation dieback, and increased sodium and electrical conductivity in soil tests.
‘Periods of prolonged waterlogging due to poor drainage can also cause salinity issues.
‘With rising water tables, shallow bore water quality can vary greatly. Farmers using shallow bores for stock water and irrigation are encouraged to check salinity levels to ensure it’s still fit for purpose. Saline drinking water can limit animal growth.’
Free salinity water tests to check water is suitable for irrigation and stock water use are offered through the Agriculture Victoria Maffra office.
‘When farms change ownership in the area, newer farmers in the district may not be aware of salinity risks and the various management strategies to reduce impacts and maintain production,’ said Ms Killury.
While Ms Semmens said we may continue to see issues that have previously been put down to poor paddock performance be related to the effects of increasing salinity.
Areas in the Macalister Irrigation District prone to high-water tables are Winnindoo, Nambrok, Denison, Bundalaguah, Airly, Fulham and Clydebank.
