EPA to Hold Public Meeting on Hydraulic Fracturing Research Study
In Canonsburg July 22
EPA Release
14 July 2010
The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency is hosting an informational
public meeting in Canonsburg, Washington County, Pa. about its proposed
study of the relationship between hydraulic fracturing and potential
impacts on drinking water.
The meeting will be held from 6-10 p.m., July 22, at the Hilton Garden
Inn in Canonsburg to provide information about the scope and design of
the proposed study, and give the public an opportunity provide input
and comment on the draft study plan.
Hydraulic fracturing is a process used for extracting natural gas or
oil from shale and other geological formations. By pumping fracturing
fluids (water and chemical additives) and sand or other similar
materials into rock formations, fractures are created that allow
natural gas or oil to flow from the rock - through the fractures - to a
production well for extraction.
In March 2010, EPA announced that it will study the potential adverse
impact that hydraulic fracturing may have on drinking water. In
developing the study, EPA is holding a series of meetings to receive
public input about specific drinking water, human health or
environmental concerns that need to be factored into the study.
To support the planning and development of the study, the agency sought
suggestions and comments from the EPA Science Advisory Board (SAB), an
independent, external federal advisory committee. The agency will use
this advice, as well as extensive public input in designing the study.
EPA requests that citizens who are interested in attending to
pre-register by Monday, July 19.
Call 1-866-477-3635 toll free to register. Or register on-line at:
http://hfmeeting.cadmusweb.com.
Those wishing to contribute comments to EPA regarding the proposed
hydraulic fracturing research study may also submit electronic comments
to EPA at hydraulic.fracturing@epa.gov ; or send written comments to:
Jill Dean
U.S. Environmental Protection Agency
1200 Pennsylvania Ave. NW, Mail code 4606M,
Washington, DC 20460.