[audio:http://wamcradio.org/EarthWise/wp-content/uploads/2014/01/EW-01-14-14-Regulating-Fracking.mp3|titles=EW 01-14-14 Regulating Fracking]
Hydraulic fracturing – better known as fracking – has driven a boom in natural gas production in the United States over the past decade. Fracking is also at the center of a raging controversy over its potential effects on public health and the environment. Despite these concerns, the federal government has left the issue of fracking regulation to individual states.
Two states have recently taken the lead in establishing regulations that may serve as models for how fracking should be pursued in a safer manner.
Colorado may become the first state to limit methane emissions from natural gas wells. Many environmentalists contend that methane leakage during fracking can negate positive effects on climate change brought about by replacing coal with natural gas. A joint proposal by oil and gas producers and the Environmental Defense Fund in Colorado would put in place monitoring and limitations on methane leakage.
In Wyoming, long a place friendly to energy companies, the state legislature approved a measure establishing strong requirements for testing water wells near gas drilling sites. The new rules, going into effect this spring, require oil and gas companies to test wells and springs within a half mile of drilling sites both before and after drilling.
There are other critical issues to address with fracking – such as disclosure of the content of fracking fluids – but since fracking is not likely to go away, at least some states are starting to take action to make it as safe as it can be.
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Web Links
Colorado creates rules to reduce fracking emissions
http://www.reuters.com/article/2013/11/18/colorado-fracking-emissions-idUSL2N0J320X20131118
Strong Rules on Fracking in Wyoming Seen as Model
Photo, taken on July 6, 2011, courtesy of Gerry Dincher via Flickr.
Earth Wise is a production of WAMC Northeast Public Radio. Support for Earth Wise comes from the Cary Institute of Ecosystem Studies in Millbrook, NY.