Climate change could have radical effects on Australia's alpine regions according to UNSW researchers.

A landmark study is now under way to monitor the complex interplay between water, soil, trees and fire in the high country.

New predictions are that by 2050 virtually no snow will fall on the Snowy Mountains and bushfires will become more frequent and severe. Water yields are also likely to plummet, with serious consequences much farther afield, particularly for the Murray-Darling river system.

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