Farmers in NSW's Bylong Valley fear for water and prime land if coalfields developed

State's powerful advisory body has recommended development of Wollar and Hawkins-Rumker coalfields

Farmers and activists in NSW's Bylong Valley say they are concerned about the damage to water quality and prime agricultural land in the area if development of two coalfields is given the green light by the state government.

The NSW deputy premier, John Barilaro, has confirmed to locals Guardian Australia's report in October that the state's powerful advisory body for strategic release has recommended opening up for development two coalfields in the area: Wollar and Hawkins-Rumker.