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| November 2004 | National Research Flagship | www.csiro.au/healthycountry/ |
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| November 2004 | National Research Flagship | www.csiro.au/healthycountry/ |
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Knowledge
grows for Murray flows
The first of these, Coorong, Lower Lakes and Murray Mouth – Knowledge Gaps and Knowledge Needs for Delivering Better Ecological Outcomes, covers the internationally significant Coorong lagoons and Lakes Alexandrina and Albert – the Murray estuary. The report is an important step in bringing together researchers from a range of institutions and defining what research is required to support the implementation of the Living Murray Initiative. The amount of water flowing through the Murray Mouth has decreased dramatically as a result of river regulation and the construction of barrages in the 1930’s. Only 27% of the natural median flow now discharges through the river Mouth, causing a build up of marine sand inside the mouth and the threat of permanent closure. Two dredges are permanently employed to keep the Mouth open. The reduction in fresh and tidal flow means less productivity and a reduced habitat, both within the estuary and the near shore marine environments. The report suggests an integrative tool that could predict changes in the physical and chemical environment (mainly water level, salinity and turbidity) for different scenarios was essential as a basis for assessing rehabilitation options. Flagship River Murray Region Coordinator Dr Sarah Ryan says organisations and communities will be able to build on the Knowledge Platforms for their own research directions. "We will now be testing our ideas about the knowledge gaps and proposed research and refine future research directions and opportunities with our partners," says Dr Ryan. The report is available at www.csiro.au/healthycountry/ under publications.
For more information
contact: |
IN THIS EDITION:
Waterfalls - Message from the Director Model solutions for Great Barrier Reef Helping Perth recycle waste water |
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The Water for a Healthy Country Flagship is a CSIRO initiative and part of the National Research Flagships program that aims to deliver scientific solutions to advance Australia's most important national objectives. One of the largest scientific initiatives ever mounted in Australia, it aligns closely with the Federal Government's National Research Priorities. The initiative brings together our national research resources to deliver breakthroughs in fields ranging from healthcare to light metals and the environment. |
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Water for a Healthy
Country Flagship |
Phone: +61 02 6246 4565 Fax: +61 03 6246 4564 | editor.healthycountry@csiro.au www.csiro.au/healthycountry/ |
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The
Flagship has completed the first knowledge synopsis of the River Murray
region. The Knowledge Platforms for the Murray seek to document
existing knowledge and knowledge gaps while identifying potential
collaboration and research opportunities.