Just how much water pollution does the process of fracking create? Much like the debates over the scientific research behind climate change, it depends on whom you ask. Supporters of fracking argue that the process allows the United States to capture large amounts of domestically-produced oil and natural gas. They argue that the environmental impacts are minimal at most and are worth the plentiful energy that we can produce here at home. Opponents argue that the process of fracking depletes groundwater resources and introduces harmful chemicals and pollution to the already depleted groundwater tables. Earlier this month, these issues again came to the forefront as the Associated Press gathered data about water pollution complaints from states that allow fracking operations. In this piece, I would like to review the environmental concerns related to fracking and water quality. Also, I will address whether the potential dangers of fracking outweigh the economic and national security gains that the practice gives us. We would like to hear your opinion on this subject, so please feel free to leave a comment at the bottom of this blog. Continue reading
Category Archives: Decision Making
Will There Be Buyers of Bay Delta Conservation Plan Water?
Beats me! Let’s see.
California’s Department of Water Resources (“DWR”) argues that BDCP water is a bargain. I do not find the pitch compelling. The cost of water is understated. The BDCP water supply is “non-firm” and not at all comparable to alternatives discussed. What should be done? Use a subscription process and find out if federal and state water contractors are willing to enter into contracts to purchase BDCP water. Continue reading
Blind Men, Elephants, and Zen – Approaching Basin Evaluation Like a Cup of Tea
This post presents a point of view that I have found tremendously useful when approaching basin evaluation, and evaluating behavior of water resources. In particular, it applies to approaching relatively complex structural basins. Within these types of reservoirs – water is often significantly controlled by structural geology. Geologic structure and its underlying driving tectonics impart a rock “fabric” – or “grain” – that is not a function of sedimentation. This “fabric” is in the form of faulting, jointing, fracturing, and other phenomena, and can facilitate, re-direct, or impede groundwater. Small, let alone large, variations in stratigraphy and sedimentary development can have orders of magnitude influences on storage and transmissivity. As important as these factors are – however it is my experience that they are so often ignored for the sake of modeling and “conservatism” – and/or because of a lack of recognition, appreciation and understanding of these phenomena for whatever reason. Continue reading