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GROUND WATER SALINITY

Groundwater naturally contains salts and minerals and varies in quantity and quality in different areas.  

These levels are measured as TDS (Total Dissolved Solids). Some examples of salt levels per litre for your information:


  • >  Rainwater: Under 10 TDS
  • >  Murray River, in places: 600 TDS
  • >  Sea Water: 35,000 TDS

The majority of the bores on the Mornington Peninsula produce groundwater with 200 to 1200 TDS per litre, but levels can be higher in certain areas.

Plants have varying tolerance to salinity in groundwater e.g. Delicate plants such as roses will not tolerate a high TDS level (over 700 TDS). Lawns and native plants are more tolerant.

Total Dissolved Solids Guide

For your information, the table below lists a general guide of TDS levels per litre of Groundwater and uses.

CROPS AND PASTURES

FLOWERS AND SHRUBS

FRUITING PLANTS

LAWN GRASSES

VEGETABLES

LIVESTOCK

FISH

HUMAN CONSUMPTION