LibGuides: Energy-Water Nexus Research Guide: Hydraulic Fracturing

Background

"Hydraulic fracturing, informally referred to as “fracking,” is an oil and gas well development process that typically involves injecting water, sand, and chemicals under high pressure into a bedrock formation via the well. This process is intended to create new fractures in the rock as well as increase the size, extent, and connectivity of existing fractures. Hydraulic fracturing is a well-stimulation technique used commonly in low-permeability rocks like tight sandstone, shale, and some coal beds to increase oil and/or gas flow to a well from petroleum-bearing rock formations" (Source: Hydraulic Fracturing, USGS Energy Resources Program). On October 3, 2013 the Illinois Department of Natural Resources opened registration for the Hydraulic Fracturing permit process in Illinois.

Illinois Legislation

Hydraulic Fracturing Regulatory Act
"Prohibits high volume horizontal hydraulic fracturing operations performed without a permit. Regulates where high volume horizontal hydraulic fracturing operations are proposed, planned, or occurring may be located. Provides requirements for permit applications, modification, suspension, and revocation of permits, insurance, well construction and drilling, disclosures, water quality monitoring, investigation and enforcement, violations and penalties, and administrative review. Authorizes the Department of Natural Resources to adopt rules as may be necessary to accomplish the purposes of this Act. "

The Prairie Research Institute at Work

Illinois State Geological Survey advises on the development of Illinois Legislation
"The ISGS provided scientific advisement to produce what is described as one of the toughest regulatory acts for hydraulic fracturing in the United States. The ISGS participated in the yearlong process at meetings where the Act was being drafted as well as through briefings of the Attorney General’s staff and legislators of both the Illinois House and Senate."
Legislation names Surveys for hydraulic fracturing permit review
Both the Illinois State Geological Survey and the Illinois State Water Survey are charged in the IHFA with review of permits and completion reports for hydraulic fracturing activities in Illinois.

Featured Resource

FrackingSENSE podcasts
What We Know, What We Don’t Know, and What We Hope to Learn about Natural Gas Development. Podcasts from a lecture series organized by the Center for the American West, Boulder County, and the AirWaterGas Research Network.