Perth expertise to help Saudi desert bloom

• Kings Park team applies restoration expertise to Saudi Arabian desert
• Major restoration research trials commenced

Kings Park and Botanic Garden is leading a world-first attempt to restore one of the largest deserts on earth in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, Environment Minister Bill Marmion announced today.

As a result of degradation of the sparse desert vegetation around Riyadh, the capital of Saudi Arabia, a team of horticulturists and restoration scientists from Kings Park have been commissioned for a range of activities related to a conservation strategy in the region.

"This international partnership recognises Kings Park's leadership in arid land research and restoration programs," Mr Marmion said.

"Experience gained through more than 20 years of restoration and research work on damaged lands in Western Australia will contribute to the recovery program for native vegetation in more than 350 square kilometres of Saudi desert."

The Kings Park led restoration trial is the biggest of its type ever undertaken in the Middle East.  The trial encompasses the complete process from seed collection, processing and plant production through to plant establishment in degraded sites.  It is expected to provide clues to how desert plants can be re-established in climates with annual rainfall of only 20mm.

The aim is to help reverse environmental degradation by developing cutting edge technologies. These include the use of new transplanting methods for trees; using 'anti-stress' agents; and application of the latest eco-physiological approaches that will, for the first time, identify when to ideally transplant nursery stock.

"Desertification is a major issue across the globe and this international partnership provides important links to world conservation networks related to arid lands," the Minister said.

"Ultimately, the development of these innovative restoration techniques will be applicable to the world's degraded deserts and dry lands."

          Fact File

• Initial trials under way involve 70,000 seedlings

• Liberal National Government has allocated more than $24m for capital works such as parking, walking trails and visitor information across more than 25 million hectares of national parks, marine parks, State forests, conservation reserves and regional parks

Minister's office - 6552 6800