Farmers block CO2 plans for farmland

2013-02-04 11:38 by Anja Reitz

The seismic survey is part of a feasibility study by the South West Hub project, a partnership between the State Government and a host of Australia's biggest companies.

The study is assessing the potential to store more than three million tonnes of CO{-2} a year in the Lesueur aquifer in the Shire of Harvey. A network of pipelines from Kwinana, Alcoa's Pinjarra and Wagerup refineries, and Collie would transfer CO{-2} to the aquifer.

Wagerup dairy farmer Tony Ferraro said more than 40 farmers were refusing access to their land because of concerns about the project's impact on the environment and their livelihoods.

Mr Ferraro said they were worried about water contamination and the Harvey region's reputation as a source of high-quality milk, beef and fruit.

The Department of Mines and Petroleum hosted a public forum in Harvey last night to discuss the seismic survey, which is estimated to involve about 120 landowners.

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Source: Brad Thompson, The West Australian January 31, 2013, 6:41 am

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