Flow measurements on the Gawler and Little Para Rivers since 1971 indicate a substantial loss in surface flow as the rivers cross the plains from Gawler and Carisbrooke Park respectively. These losses are due to recharge of the aquifer and evapo-transpiration as pump extractions are virtually non-existent. There are, however, indications of flood losses between gauging stations particularly on the Gawler River due to burst river banks causing extensive flooding to nearby property and beyond. In 1971 and 1974 the Gawler River breached its banks upstream of the Port Wakefiled Road Bridge closing all north bound traffic. Salinity sampling of the two rivers and minor streams (Smith Creek and Cobblers Creek) was initiated in 1973 and continued until December 1975. River samples were collected from each gauging station on a weekly basis during the winter and summer for as long as the rivers flowed. These test results indicate a high salinity in the summer and a low salinity during winter flows. The possibility of utilising the surface waters of the Gawler and Little Para Rivers for artificial recharge of the aquifers in the northern Adelaide Plains has been widely discussed and reported. It may not be practicable from an engineering and economical point of view at present. However, it is suggested that a series of flood controlled shallow weirs be installed at selected points along the rivers. There are known sites which would be suitable for aquifer recharge. The natural process of recharge by rivers in the plains is slow with the result that a considerable volume of water is lost to sea.