A new report into the CSG fields of the Surat Basin in QLD shows that CSG-associated water removal can lower water levels in adjacent aquifers depleting supplies to other users; increase inter-aquifer transfer of groundwater as the coal measures are depressurised and impact surface water unless strict management controls are imposed.  No surprises there!

Importantly, it also states “Inclusion of the impacts of other neighbouring CSG producers should be done to quantify the cumulative impacts on the system” which is precisely what a catchment-wide water study will ensure here rather than the current, environmentally-catastrophic project-by-project assessments.  They’ve suggested it but will the QLD government listen?

The Warrah Creek area will be having one of its Upper Mooki Landcare meetings on Thursday 3rd December at the Warrah Creek Hall at 5.30pm.  Particular attention will be paid to the threat to agricultural water supplies from gas mining (including current exploration activities) at that meeting.  All welcome.