One of the most important issues facing the Lower Burdekin will be addressed at the upcoming Australian Water Association (AWA) conference in Townsville.

The question is: how much water can be taken from the aquifer before salinity sets in?

NQ Water is a Pearl sponsor to the conference which is traditionally held every two years and rotated around the capital city circuit. It's the first time in 34 years the conference has been shared with a regional centre.

Conference convenor and Townsville based water engineer Tony Manning says the north has world class water research and management facilities to compliment world class natural assets.

"This conference will showcase our local talent," Mr Manning says "We have research leaders for example, in reef and savannah eco-systems who will be contributing their expertise to the conference."

"Salinity is one of the great environmental issues of our time. The results of local research delivered at the conference indicate it can be managed but users need to exercise greater rigour. The science has worldwide implications."

It is estimated that between 300 and 400 Gigalitres is drawn from more than 1,800 wells around the Lower Burdekin each year, with roughly the same amount of water replaced through artificial recharge and irrigation return flows.

Despite this, areas (of the lower Burdekin) scalded by salt continue to grow along the coast due to seawater intrusion.

Technical papers delivered by specialists will show the amount of water that can be withdrawn and where, in order to mitigate saltwater intrusion into aquifers.

Mr Manning says he and the sponsors argued strongly to bring the conference to a regional centre.

"Environmental issues surrounding the management of water are best presented in a 'real life' regional and rural setting," he says. "North Queensland is a living example of use, research and management in the most diverse of environments."

The Ozwater Specialist Conference in Townsville from 5-7 May runs immediately before the Brisbane Ozwater Convention and Exhibition from 8-12 May.