The Newcastle Herald has learnt of cases where farmers participating in gas exploration have suffered malicious property damage and trespass. Others report children being bullied at school.

Police said yesterday that any unlawful behaviour arising from gas protests would not be tolerated.

The Herald spoke to several landholders participating in gas exploration.

All but one did not want to be identified for fear of reprisals.

"It's just not worth it. We've been through enough. I don't want to make it worse," a person who said they had experienced malicious damage to their property said.

In some communities, long-term neighbours no longer speak to each other.

"I don't have a problem with people having an opinion about coal seam gas, but don't make it personal," another said.

Dart Energy spokesman Andrew Collins said some landholders had experienced negativity towards them.

"In one case where a landowner came under pressure from neighbours after reaching an agreement, we were prepared to tear up the access agreement," he said.

"Our experience is that once we start drilling people become more comfortable with what we are doing and that the exploration work is not what some opponents of coal seam gas have claimed."

Wollombi Valley Against Gas Extraction group spokesman Sean Gough agreed there was potential for rifts to develop within affected communities.

"We are very careful not allow disputes to develop," he said.

"We are not just trying to protect the place we live but the social fabric. But when you have these invasive processes it does create unusual tensions.

"Some people benefit more than others."

Santos Gas spokesman Sam Crafter said the company placed a high priority on engaging with all community members regardless of their views.

"We are constantly trying to explain our industry to people and how we go about things," Mr Crafter said.

"The majority of people just want to know the facts and they want it done safely and sustainably."

Upper Hunter police said individuals had the right to exercise free speech and peaceful assembly when in compliance with the law.

"Where there is any violence or damage to property or breach of the peace then police will use their powers of arrest," Detective Sergeant Nicole Hardy said.