Document Type

Article

Publication Date

Summer 2015

Publication Source

Natural Resources & Environment Magazine

Abstract

Hydraulic fracturing is a method of oil and gas extraction. It involves the pumping of a mixture of proppants, chemicals, and large amounts of water into wells to exert pressure and fracture rock formations, thereby allowing otherwise “trapped” gas and oil to flow more freely. See Railroad Commission of Texas v. Citizens for a Safe Future and Clean Water, 336 S.W.3d 619, 621 (Tex. 2011) (describing the “fracing” process). With the development of horizontal drilling and more effective lubricants, it is now possible to remove “unconventional” sources of oil and gas located in shale and other dense substrata. Positive effects include lower fuel costs and greater energy independence. Negative effects include air and water contamination, adverse impacts on water supplies and roads, noise concerns, and a possible connection to earthquakes.

ISBN/ISSN

0882-3812

Document Version

Published Version

Comments

Use of the Requested Material is limited to one-time electronic use and does not include the right to license this material, individually or as it appears in this publication, or to grant others permission to photocopy or otherwise reproduce this material. Permission is granted to make versions for use by blind or physically handicapped persons, provided that no fees are charged.

Permission documentation is on file.

Publisher

American Bar Association

Volume

30

Issue

1

Place of Publication

Chicago, IL


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