Hyrdaulic Fracture What???

The following is a very simplified look at Hydraulic Fracture Drilling (HFD). I am by no means an expert on the subject area. However, a basic understanding of HFD is essential when discussing its ramifications, pending legislature, and potential improvements. If you would like a more detailed explanation, EarthWorks has a succint article.

Hyrdaulic Fracture Drilling- A process used to maximize the amount of gas/oil that can be extracted from the earth.

• How it works:
• A deep well is dug
• A liquid solution is injected into the earth at HIGH pressure
• When the earth can't withstand the pressure-- it cracks (fractures)
• The fractures make it easier for the gas to move towards the well
• After the fracture:
• When the earth cracks it creates a lot of pressure
• This pressure forces about half the injected solution out of the well
• Solution can be stored in condensate tanks or lined pits for later removal/recycling
• The rest of the solution stays in the ground

Problem 1: Fracturing fluid is extremely dangerous, it contains volatile chemicals, known carcinogens, and toxins.


 Problem 2:The condensate tanks and pits do not effectively contain fumes, so they dissipate into the atmosphere. Also the pits are often poorly lined, allowing  fracturing fluid to seep into the earth.


Problem 3: The fracturing fluid that never returns to the surface can seep into ground water. Water contamination is a serious health hazard to humans  and animals in the affected region.

The Reason

I was ignorant to the dangers posed by hydraulic fracture drilling for natural gas in America. I thought, "Hey, natural gas. Sounds safe. Maybe even eco-friendly."

Wrong--on both counts.

Hydraulic drilling is unregulated in this country. There is no monitoring agency. It's a free-for-all. It's a monster posing as a savior for our energy needs.

My hope in writing this blog is to educate myself and others about the consequences America is facing as a result of hydraulic drilling-- both as a diverse environmental landscape, and as a nation of tax paying citizens.