Water Lecture 8

Marcellus Shale

A significant shale play in the Appalachian region where oil and gas extraction began in 2007.

Hydrofracking

A method of extracting oil and gas by injecting high-pressure fluid into underground formations.

FracFocus

A database that discloses data on fracking fluid chemicals to inform the public.

Shale Plays

Active shale oil and gas extraction areas.

Shale Basins

Larger formations containing shale resources.

Major Shale Plays

Key regions in the U.S. for shale oil and gas extraction, including Marcellus, Utica, Antrim, and Barnett.

Hydraulically Fractured Well Locations

Regions where oil and gas wells were likely hydraulically fractured between 2000 and 2013.

PFAS

A group of man-made chemicals that are hazardous at contamination levels of 0.50% (5,000 ppm).

Produced Water

Wastewater generated after the fracking process, of which 90% is reused for further fracking.

Water Use in Fracking

Each well requires approximately 4 million gallons of fluid, primarily sourced from surface water.

Environmental Concerns

Issues raised by fracking, including water use, seismic activity, and methane emissions.

Chemical Mixing

The process of combining water with various chemicals for use in fracking.

Wastewater Disposal

The process of managing produced water, which includes reuse and underground injection.

Regulations

Laws governing the disclosure of chemicals used in fracking and the management of produced water.

Water Withdrawal

The process of extracting water for fracking, allowed except during low flow periods.

Freshwater Usage in PA

In Pennsylvania, 71% of water used in fracking is freshwater.

Fracking Fluids

Mixtures that can include biocides, surfactants, and corrosion inhibitors, exempt from certain regulations.

Underground Injection

A method of disposing of produced water by injecting it back underground, commonly used in Ohio.

Seismic Activity

Potential geological disturbances caused by fracking operations.

Corporate Dishonesty

Misrepresentation of fracking impacts, particularly affecting rural communities.

Key Regions for Fracking

Areas with major concentrations of fracking activity, including Texas, Oklahoma, and North Dakota.

EPA Regulations

Federal guidelines that govern the safety and environmental impact of fracking operations.