Thursday, November 3, 2011

EPA Issues Final Hydraulic Fracturing Study Plan

EPA's Final Hydraulic Fracturing Study plan is released. www.epa.gov/hydraulicfracturing.

My quick review reveals no surprises in the final study plan. It will look at the life cycle of water issues associated with hydraulic fracturing. The plan identifies 5 category of issues: water acquisition; chemical mixing or surface spills; well injection; spills of flowback and produced water; and wastewater treatment and waste disposal.

The issues will be examined through both retrospective and prospective studies in five locations. First results of the study will be delivered in 2012 and final results in 2014. 

This EPA study is required by Congress, and I commend the EPA for its inclusive, careful process in crafting the study plan.  The study plan should provide good information to the public.

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