Hydraulic fracturing – also known as ‘fracking’ – is a process in which millions of gallons of water, sand and chemicals are pumped underground to break apart the rock and release gas.
Fracking was made legal in North Carolina earlier this year by an act of the General Assembly. However, it will take another vote of the legislature to authorize the issuing of permits and let drilling begin.
In states where fracking is happening, communities have experienced a number of troublesome environmental impacts, including water contamination and air pollution.
The Basics
Fracking – aka hydraulic fracturing – is a controversial method of underground gas extraction. Water contamination and air pollution are among the greatest concerns about the process. But what does fracking mean for North Carolina?
Learn more about the basics…
Talking Points
A 2011 Duke study shows that methane levels in… More
A 2005 federal loophole exempts fracking… More
Frequently Asked Questions
There are a lot of uncertainties about the fracking process. What does the new law mean for North Carolina? With NC’s gas deposits closer to our drinking water, is water contamination more likely?
Click here to find your answers…
For more information on fracking risks in North Carolina, see the NC Chapter Fracking website.
NC Central Piedmont Group of the Sierra Club 
Do you have any speakers that would attend a club function and discuss fracking? I am looking for someone to come to Statesville to speak about what fracking is and the affect on our environment.
Bill Gupton might be able to help you out. You can contact him at wmgupton@aol.com.