The NSW Government is commencing a drilling program in the Bancannia Trough this month exploring for essential groundwater to bolster drought response and support agriculture, towns and industry.
The project will involve drilling up to five holes approximately 100 km north-east of Broken Hill to depths of 200–400 m below the surface using cutting edge technology to reveal this vital resource for western NSW.
Chief Geoscientist and Head of the Geological Survey of NSW, Phillip Blevin, said the Bancannia drilling project was an important step in ensuring regional communities have access to the resources they need to survive and thrive.
‘The Bancannia Trough drilling project is a key initiative focused on supporting regional communities that depend on farming to grow and prosper,’ Dr Blevin said.
‘This project will provide valuable data to help inform future land use and water management decisions in the region and will be used by government and farmers to expand their knowledge of the geology and ground water resources.’
The project is expected to take up to three months to complete and will test the concept that some of the sedimentary basins in NSW may host deep groundwater aquifers.
‘The NSW Government will work closely with local communities, landholders and other important stakeholders ensuring they are kept informed of the progress of the project. All drill sites will be rehabilitated following the completion of the project,’ Dr Blevin said.
More information about the Bancannia drilling project can be found by calling 1800 960 522 or visiting the project and interactive map on our website.
