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Cattle producers and coal mine operators in Central Queensland have joined the search for a solution to an environmental problem that can affect both industries.
Representatives from the two industries met in Dysart in Central Queensland last week, to discuss new CSIRO research which shows the effects on beef cattle of drinking water discharged from coal mines.
CSIRO researcher Tracey King from the Tropical Beef Centre in Rockhampton explained that water accumulates in coal mine pits and in times of heavy rainfall must be pumped out to allow coal mining to continue.
"This water can contain high levels of mineral salts, particularly sulphates, and under some circumstances can become drinking water for cattle," she said.
"Our research shows that steers can drink water with contamination up to 2000 ppm for as long as four months with no effects on their water or feed intake, or their weight gain."
However Ms King warned that lactating cows are more vulnerable.
"Our research showed that levels up to 2000 ppm are marginal and levels higher than 2000 ppm may be excessive and may reduce a lactating cow's productivity," she said.
Ms King said that BHP Australia Coal Pty Ltd funded the CSIRO research following concern from landholders that mine pitwater may be affecting their cattle. Following the research results, representatives from BHP, CSIRO, cattle and landcare groups met with staff from Departments of Minerals and Energy, Primary Industries, and Environment and Heritage to discuss the findings and their implications for the cattle and coal mining industries.
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