A SCIENTIFIC committee will be set up to research the impacts of mining and coal seam gas extraction on agricultural land.

The Federal Government made the $150 million announcement this afternoon.

HAVE YOUR SAY
Is the expert committee enough to keep CSG projects in check?
Tell us in the form below.
READ MORE: Katter still considering mining tax

Prime Minister Julia Gillard said the government wanted to ensure that all CSG projects and large coal mining developments were based on "the most rigorous scientific evidence available".

The committee will provide advice to the government about CSG and coal project approvals where they have significant impacts on water.

The body will also oversee research and commission water resource assessments in "priority regions".

The National Farmers' Federation welcomed the announcement.

NFF President Jock Laurie said it was a positive move for rural communities worried about the impact mining and CSG exploration could have on water and land.

"It is essential that the full impacts of any developments are understood before they proceed. Water and arable land are limited, finite resources that are essential for agriculture, rural communities and our future food security – and if any damage is done to these resources, it will be far too late to try and rectify the situation later," he said.

The Federal Government has secured the support of key independents Tony Windsor, Rob Oakeshott and Andrew Wilkie for its mining tax.

Independent Bob Katter still hasn't decided how he will vote on the legislation.