Chapter 6: Changes in the hydrologic cycle
Document Type
Conference Proceeding
Publication Date
1993
Conference Title
Reintegrating Fragmented Landscapes: Towards Sustainable Production and Nature Conservation
Place of Publication
New York
ISBN
Print ISBN 978-1-4613-9216-3, Online ISBN 978-1-4613-9214-9
Disciplines
Natural Resources and Conservation | Soil Science | Water Resource Management
Abstract
The deep-rooted native vegetation that originally grew in the wheatbelt was well adapted to the rainfall regime and diverse soil types. As a result, there was little or no runoff or groundwater recharge prior to clearing (Table 6.1). After the vegetation was replaced by shallow-rooted annual crops and pastures, runoff and groundwater recharge increased (Table 6.1). This resulted in serious water erosion, waterlogging, flooding, and salinity. It is ironic that all of these problems are caused by excess water when agricultural production is limited by a lack of water at particular times of the year.
Recommended Citation
McFarlane, D.J., George, R.J., Farrington, P. (1993). Changes in the Hydrologic Cycle. In: Hobbs, R.J., Saunders, D.A. (eds) Reintegrating Fragmented Landscapes. Springer, New York, NY. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-1-4613-9214-9_6
