AN independent review of AGL’s gas exploration has recommended controversial ‘‘fracking’’ continue in the Hunter, despite confirming leaks between surface and deeper aquifers where the process has been used at Broke.
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Professor Garry Willgoose’s report found that damage to surface aquifers was ‘‘unlikely’’ and because of lack of evidence to oppose fracking, it should be allowed to proceed.
A University of Newcastle academic, Professor Willgoose reviewed AGL’s groundwater monitoring and the final report has been tabled with the Hunter Gas Community Consultative Committee.
Vigneron Ian Napier, a committee member and Hunter Valley Wine Industry Association representative, said he believed the Willgoose report raised an alarm, as it was the first to reveal connectivity between aquifers.
‘‘Until AGL can show that it will not impact on water or release of methane we think the precautionary principle should apply,’’ Mr Napier said.
Professor Willgoose found increases in water pressure at depths ranging from 75metres to 220metres that indicated leakage.
Fracking forces gas to the surface by pumping a mixture of water, sand and chemicals underground.
‘‘It is the first time a gas explorer has done a series of local studies around test wells,’’ Mr Napier said.
‘‘It is the only place where there is data showing connectivity where they have fracked.’’
The Willgoose review revealed a rise of dissolved methane over the last three years to ‘‘significant levels’’ but the cause was ‘‘entirely unclear’’.
AGL proposes to use fracking at its vineyard pilot wells this year, once approval is obtained.
Professor Willgoose concluded there ‘‘is no deleterious effects from the fracking’’ and flow testing at Broke.
‘‘I consider the proposed fracking ... should be allowed to proceed,’’ he said.
The review could not show any leakage between aquifers and deeper coal seams.
Mr Napier will be among a group inspecting AGL’s operations at the company-owned Broke vineyard today.
The Newcastle Herald asked AGL for comment on Mr Napier’s comments. It submitted background on the report but no direct response to Mr Napier’s comments.
