CSG is a topic that is sure to raise emotions when it's discussed.
The industry is now well and truly underway in Southern Queensland, no matter where you sit on the debate.Previously the industry has reasoned that land holders have a choice whether or not to let exploration happen on their land… but is it that simple?
Joe Hill is an Angus breeder from "Wandaloo", near Miles and is concerned about the implications near-by drilling is having on his business.ABC Southern Queensland's Vicki Thompson asked him what his concerns are.
Metro Coal- the company that owns the wells Mr Hill refers to, has been contacted for comment but declined an interview this morning.
The Department of Environment and Resource Management (DERM) were contacted about this story on Friday and an offer of an interview made, the following statement was issued in response.
DERM investigated reports the drilling mud was not being properly handled during exploration drilling works at a property near Miles in July last year.
DERM officers inspected the site and ordered the company responsible to undertake a number of clean up and remedial actions.
DERM is satisfied the company complied with these orders and has not received any reports that toxic topsoil has been illegally disposed of.Any such incidents should be reported to the DERM pollution hotline on 1300 130 372.It is an offence to dump regulated waste and the maximum penalty is $100,000.
Regulated waste can be disposed of at sites, such as landfills, that are approved to accept certain kinds of waste.
ABC Southern Queensland staff then pushed for further detail and information about this case and the specific concerns raised.
Again, DERM did not make anyone available for an interview but issued the following statement.
Local councils, as operators of landfills, set rules regarding the type of waste they will accept.Landfill operators have to take all reasonable and practical measures to prevent environmental harm occurring as a result of the service they provide.
While DERM has had no reports of illegally dumped toxic material, it will investigate reports of toxic topsoil affecting Mr Hill's property.
In South West Queensland the Toowoomba Regional Council's Bedford Street site is the only site that accepts contaminated soils.
This site has lined cells and a sophisticated leachate management system to prevent any contaminants from leaving the site.
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Mornings with Belinda Sanders
612 ABC Brisbane
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