An additional benefit from an action that is undertaken to achieve a particular purpose, that is not directly related to that purpose.

A form of conservation farming involving no mechanical soil disturbance other than planting. Crops are planted directly in the stubble of a previous crop or into native grasses. Zero-till has been successful in managing some forms of dryland salinity by increasing the capacity of the soil to hold water and reducing recharge to the watertable.

Wetlands are areas that are permanently or periodically wet or inundated. The plants and animals living in wetlands are adapted to, and often dependent on, the wet conditions for at least part of their life cycle. The pattern of inundation determines the productivity of the soils and the plant and animal communities.

Where the surface soil is saturated with water from rising groundwater or surface run-off collecting in low areas.

The level below which the ground is saturated with water.

A measure of the salinity of water, sometimes referred to as total dissolved salts, usually expressed in milligrams per litre (mg/L). An alternative measure is total soluble salts (TSS).

An accounting system that considers more than the traditional financial “bottom line”. As well as financial outcomes, a company (or Government’s) performance should be measured against its social and environmental responsibilities.

The layers of soil below the topsoil.

The effect of plant roots drawing water from the soil, thereby drying it out and increasing water holding capacity. Prior to extensive land clearing, native vegetation provided a soil sponge to a depth of six metres or more. Increasing the organic matter in soils help mange salinity.

A vertical section of earth from the soil surface to parent material, showing the different horizons of soil.