Publication Name: The Canning Basin, W.A.
Authors: Ralf Buckley
Date Published: December 1984
Number of Pages: 13
Reference Type: Book Section
Abstract:
In the arid dunefields which cover most of the onshore Canning Basin, the main environmentally significant aspects of petroleum exploration are tracks and drillholes. Tracks provide uncontrolled access to touristswho may spread weeds and light fires. Abandoned drillholes, unless cased or plugged, can lead to contamination
of useful aquifers. The impacts of exploration can be minimised at negligible cost by: avoiding waterholes and watercourses; skimming vegetation rather than dozing soil, when track-cutting; cleaning vehicles before they enter remote areas; and plugging drillholes which intersect confined aquifers.