How will water produced from coalbed gas wells be managed?
CBG-produced water occurs naturally within coal-bearing formations. This naturally occurring water ranges from potable fresh water to saline water. The Oil and Gas Commission (OGC) regulates all water produced from CBG wells. In most cases, the OGC requires produced water to be re-injected back into the earth in a manner that maintains the integrity and safety of aquifers. If water from CBG wells meets stringent standards set by the Ministry of Water, Land and Air Protection, the OGC may allow the water to be discharged to the surface. Still, Federal and Provincial regulations protecting groundwater and surface water quality and quantity must be met to ensure that water discharge is conducted in an environmentally responsible manner.
