Salinity and Drought - What every farmer should know

About this episode

This episode discusses the causes and management of dry saline land, particularly in drought conditions.

This MSF FarmTalk episode is part of the 101 Soils Questions Series. We explore the basics of dry saline land—how it forms, why it gets worse in drought years, and what steps you can take to support recovery. Dr Chris McDonough, Insight Extension for Agriculture, joins host Tanja Morgan to discuss: What causes dry saline patches to emerge or expand How rainfall and evaporation affect salt movement Realistic strategies for recovery and long-term management This conversation is a must-listen if you’re managing low rainfall mixed farming systems and need practical support navigating drought-affected salt patches. Useful Links & Resources: Dry Saline Land Resources A practical decision tool to assess your site and select appropriate management actions: 🔗 Dry Saline Land Decisions Tree 101 Soils Questions Book (Chapter on Salinity) Explore common questions and answers about managing dry saline land and other soil constraints: 🔗 101 Soils Questions Book Learn about identifying and managing Mallee Seeps (a different form of salinity): 🔗 Mallee Seeps Decision Tree This podcast episode is supported by the South Australian Grain Industry Trust (SAGIT). Support the show…

People in this episode

Host: Tanja Morgan

Guest: Dr Chris McDonough

Topics covered

• salinity
• drought
• agriculture
• soil management
• farming systems

Keywords

• salinity
• drought
• dry saline land
• agriculture
• recovery strategies
• soil management
• Mallee Seep

Sponsors

South Australian Grain Industry Trust

Mentioned in this episode

Organizations: Mallee Sustainable Farming

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