The relatively small Natte Yallock Salinity Province is located in west, central Victoria and consists of an upland alluvial flood plain surrounded by the Pyrenees and Black Ranges. The area has an intermediate scale Groundwater Flow System in alluvial sediments with an underlying ‘deep lead’ system, which contains reasonable quality groundwater that is not greatly utilised. A bedrock high (buried granite pluton) restricts subsurface drainage and contributes to the upward hydraulic pressures driving salinity in the province. Groundwater monitoring commenced in the 1980s in an extensive network of bores, mainly developed by the local LandCare group.
Extensive perennial pastures, mostly lucerne, phalaris and small areas of saltbush, were planted in the early 2000s when Incentives payments for their establishment were provided. More recently, cereal cropping in the province has been increased.
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