I just finished another PermaCulture class that spoke of taking back desert lands and reforesting and greening the area. Creating swales for water retention on the land was the first thing we did and then brought in loads of mulching material.

We did not have the abundance of salt that you are dealing with though. Your chose of going with Plan B is a very wise one, looking at the future.

I'm sure you know exactly what you are doing and all your research is impressive. This is such an exciting project. One I'll be keeping a watch on.