A framework to select policy tools for dryland salinity

Appropriate management and policy responses for dryland salinity vary depending on biophysical and socio-economic conditions, and on the resources in question (water resources, biodiversity, infrastructure, agricultural land, salt-affected land). In this paper we present a framework for selecting responses consistent with economic and scientific evidence. Current policies rely heavily on communication, education and payment of incentives, but a broader range of responses is needed, including engineering works for key infrastructure, selective use of regulation/permits to limit planting of perennials in certain areas of high-water-yielding catchments, and development of improved salinity management technologies for farmers. We are over-relying on incentives and communication, which are only likely to be cost-effective in certain situations.