Drilling waste treatment & disposal

This Council-commissioned Landcare Research report presents the results of laboratory-based research into the potential for ecological effects in soil arising from incorporation of drilling wastes into land (the process known as landfarming). The research was conducted from October 2013 to May 2014. The report is prefaced with a memorandum presented to the Council's Policy and Planning Committee.

• Biological response of earthworms and soil microbes associated with drilling mud wastes (1.5 MB pdf)

This Council-commissioned 2013 report by Graeme Proffitt of Pattle Delamore Partners Ltd assesses whether landfarming is an environmentally viable practice and if so, whether the process is being managed appropriately by the Council. It concludes that landfarming is a valid and environmentally acceptable means of waste treatment, and appropriate controls are in place. Minor recommendations in the report have been adopted.

• Review of petroleum waste landfarming (379 KB pdf)

This Council-commissioned 2013 report by Dr DC Edmeades of agKnowledge Ltd assesses whether landfarm soils are fit for pastoral farming, especially dairy farming. It concludes that concentrations of nutrients, heavy metals and soluble salts in landfarm soils and pasture are similar to normal New Zealand soils, the form of barium present is environmentally benign, and that there is no evidence of accumulation of petrochemical residues.

• The Taranaki landfarms - are they fit for purpose? (237 KB pdf)

This Council-commissioned 2013 report by GNS Science reviews issues involved with regulation of deep well injection of fluids produced in association with oil and gas exploration. The review also covers overseas regulatory environments.

• Review of regulation of deep well injection under the Resource Management Act (1.5 MB pdf)