Ground Water Impacts Resulting From Oil And Gas Field Operations

The exploration and exploitation of Oil and gas has effects on groundwater; which is a vital natural resource necessary for daily consumption and human sustenance. The production of the 2 products mentioned above is closely linked to 2 disciplines -Energy and Environmental Law. Two technologies in the United States, have unlocked Oil and gas from shale -Hydraulic fracturing and horizontal drilling. Operators using both technologies use water mixed with small amounts of proppants and other chemicals to fracture the shale rock so that oil and gas may flow through them. Groundwater supply is most of the water needed for hydraulic fracturing in areas that lack available surface water. The potential to impacts on drinking water resources from hydraulic fracturing water withdrawals are highest in areas with high fracturing water use and low water availability. Recent complaints filed indicate water that is considered 'potentially usable' by regulatory definition cannot be used for domestic, agricultural or industrial purposes without blending and treatment. By dint of the above, treatment is necessary to render water extracted from the affected zone usable.