In developing unconventional hydrocarbon resources (coal seam gas, shale oil and gas), water management can involve significant cost and effort. Flow-back water, RO reject, brine, salt, injection, irrigation, and managed aquifer recharge are important subjects to the industry. The water balance, economics, and the required technology are often critically dependent on the regulatory framework, disposal options, the fracturing fluids used, and the characteristics of the reservoir.

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