EPA introduces research plan on hydraulic fracturing

The US Environmental Protection Agency has developed a final research plan on hydraulic fracturing in order to understand its potential impacts on drinking water resources.

The agency aims to determine if the likely consequences of the method of hydraulic fracturing on drinking water, relying on case studies and data already gathered by state agencies and laboratory tests.

The study will include the full cycle of water in hydraulic fracturing, from the acquisition of the water, through the mixing of chemicals and actual fracturing, to the post-fracturing stage.

It will also include management of flow back and produced or used water as well as its ultimate treatment and disposal.

EPA will release the initial research results and study findings to the public next year.

In 2010, EPA already conducted a trial study, reviewed by the Science Advisory Board, to ensure the agency conducted the research using a scientifically sound approach.