Using CSG produced water in irrigated agriculture

Summary

The water removed during the extraction of coal seam gas (CSG) is referred to as produced water. A critical issue for the CSG industry is the management of produced water.

Produced water could potentially be reused in agriculture, grazing, forestry, and industrial and mining operations, however, produced water reserves in northern NSW are of poor quality and low volume.

Produced water is highly saline requiring comprehensive treatment for re-use in irrigation to avoid damage to crops, soils, and the broader environment.

Topics include:

• CSG production
• CSG locations in NSW
• Quantity of produced water
• Quality of produced water
• Irrigating with CSG treated produced water
• Soil suitability