What is all the fuss about Fracking, Hydrofracking and Hydraulic Fracturing?

T. Webb, Geology 12 HHSNAME: ______

Part 1 – Class videos

Intro: (35 min)

  1. Pros?

Utica Shale, Quebec, Canada - (7 min)

Marcellus Shale (3:31 min)

  1. Cons?

Earth Focus on Marcellus Shale (17 min)

US Government Coverup? min)

If you would like more info, watch:

  1. (1 hour, BBC)
  2. Causing earthquakes? News report (2:38 min)

Part 2 – Webquest questions - Do your own research or check out the provided links:

A)

  • What is the basic purpose for fracking?
  • List six major concerns and potential hazards related to the fracking process:

i)______

ii)______

iii)______

iv)______

v)______

vi)______

  • In 2005, President ______exempted oil and gas companies from federal regulations designed to protect U.S. drinking water, and most state oil and gas regulatory agencies don’t require companies to report the volumes or names of the chemicals they use in the fracking process, chemicals such as ______

______. More than ______of the products contained chemicals that are known or possible human carcinogens, which are regulated under the Safe Drinking Water Act.

What argument is presented by the Chesapeake Energy Corp. to support the claim that their fracking of the Marcellus Shale will not contaminate water supplies? Describe.

  • Consider the chemicals list that is provided on page two. What information can you derive from the selection of common uses that they describe?
  • Explain why you do or do not feel this is a valid presentation of data for the general public.
  • Compare the data provided by this source of information (under Toxic Chemicals, and Health Concerns sections) – how is it different? Explain.

B)

  • Summarize the process of hydraulic fracturing, including why sand, chemicals and water is used in this process. (point form)
  • What are the production benefits of hydraulic fracturing, particularly with the Barnett Shale, Haynesville Shale, Fayetteville Shale, and Marcellus Shale gas fields?
  • What is the significance of the Utica Shale?

C)

  • List five benefits from extracting natural gas by the fracking process:
  1. ______
  2. ______
  3. ______
  4. ______
  5. ______

D)Fracking in Canada – Consider what you have learned about fracking, both positive and negative aspects.

  1. On the back of this sheet, state your position and support it with at least 5 documented/researched facts.
  1. In a group of three to four people, choose one of the following (or one that you find) and summarize the key perspectives to present to the class, on poster paper. Explain why your group agrees or disagrees with it.

My Position on Fracking:

______

Five Supporting Facts:

  1. ______
  1. ______
  1. ______
  1. ______
  1. ______