Disposal of fraccing fluid

After a reservoir rock formation has been fracced, fraccing fluids mixed with groundwater (collectively known as fracc flowback water) are pumped out of the well. This water is typically stored in either specially designed and constructed dams or above ground holding tanks. Fracc flowback water may be reused in subsequent fraccing activities or treated to the appropriate environmental and human health standards for other uses.

After fraccing has occurred, the quality and quantity of fracc flowback water must be monitored until one-and–a-half times (150 per cent) the amount of the fluid used in the fracc has been removed from the well. This is to ensure that all water used for the fracc is removed.

Comprehensive impact monitoring requirements for landholders bores can continue for up to five years after fraccing has occurred.