8 Estimated salt pools

The observed decrease in salinity coupled with stable annual lake elevations in Gilbert Bay is also reflected in estimates of salt pools in Gilbert Bay (Figure 8.1). For this analysis, salt pools were estimated by applying the approach of Naftz 2017 (dissolved nitrogen pool estimate) to salinity measures. A shift in the total and upper brine layer salt pools is observable following breach opening in December 2016. DBL volume, and therefore DBL salt pool mass, is dependent on lake elevation. The DBL mass estimated in 2013 (pre-breach, but similar lake elevations as post breach conditions) is similar to the DBL mass estimated post breach.

Figure 8.1: Estimated Gilbert Bay salt pools.