Call to monitor CSG impact

AN independent body is needed to monitor the impact of coal-seam gas production on underground water supplies.

AN independent body is needed to monitor the impact of coal-seam gas production on underground water supplies, says NSW Chief Scientist Mary O’Kane.

In a report to the state government, Ms O’Kane said current data was inadequate to assess the impact of extractive industries on underground water but much could be done to reduce uncertainty.

She said new sensors should be placed in high-risk areas, data on groundwater should be made generally accessible and a formal structure established to assess impacts.

The report was welcomed both by the oil and gas industry and conservation groups.

However, industry group APPEA said any proposal for additional water monitoring measures should include all users of the Great Artesian Basin, not just mining.

And anti-CSG groups Lock the Gate Alliance and the Wilderness Society called for a moratorium on gas exploration and development until baseline data was collected.

Lock the Gate Alliance spokesman and Gunnedah farmer Phil Herbert said the Chief Scientist report had confirmed the concerns of landholders.

“This report confirms what we’ve been saying all along,” Mr Herbert said.

“There’s no confidence in industry predictions without proper baseline data and proper modelling.”

Mr Herbert said Lock the Gate supported the concept of an independent statutory authority but only if it was backed by a moratorium and strict no-go zones to protect the most precious water resources.

The Wilderness Society said the Chief Scientist’s report had vindicated concerns of farmers and environmental groups.

“All mining and gas approvals work should be suspended until the NSW Chief Scientist’s recommendations for better monitoring and science on the impacts on water from mining and gas fields are implemented,’’ Wilderness Society spokesman Naomi Hogan said.

She said consideration of Santos’s Pilliga gas project, which is due to be assessed early next year, should be deferred.

Santos declined to comment.

Ms O’Kane has been embroiled in controversy with the NSW government over her role in assessing CSG projects.

In an email obtained by Greens MP Jeremy Buckingham under freedom of information, Ms O’Kane said her position had been compromised by government statements implying she supported the Santos CSG project in the Pilliga State Forest