E.P.A. to Hold Public Meeting on Hydraulic Fracturing Research Study In Canonsburg July 22

(PHILADELPHIA - July 8, 2010) The E.P.A. is hosting an informational public meeting in Canonsburg, Washington County, Pa. about its suggested study of the relationship between hydraulic fracturing and potential impacts on drinking water.

The meeting will be held from 6-10 p.m., July 22, at the Hilton Garden Inn in Canonsburg to provide information about the scope and design of the suggested study, and give the public an opportunity provide input and review on the outline study plan.

Hydraulic fracturing is a process used for extracting natural gas or oil from shale and other geological formations. By pumping fracturing fluids (water and chemical additives) and sand or other similar materials into rock formations, fractures are created that allow natural gas or oil to flow from the rock - through the fractures - to a production well for extraction.

In March 2010, E.P.A. announced that it will study the potential adverse impact that hydraulic fracturing may have on drinking water. In developing the study, E.P.A. is holding a series of meetings to gain public input about specific drinking water, human health or environmental concerns that need to be factored into the study.

To support the planning and development of the study, the agency sought suggestions and comments from the E.P.A. Science Advisory Board (SAB), an independent, external federal advisory committee. The agency will use this advice, as well as extensive public input in designing the study.

E.P.A. requests that citizens who are interested in attending to pre-register by Monday, July 19. E.P.A. will also hold meetings about the study on, July eight in Fort Worth, Texas; July 13 in Denver, Colo.; and, August twelve in Binghamton, N.Y.

Call 1-866-477-3635 toll free to register. Or register on-line at: http://hfmeeting.cadmusweb.com.

Those wishing to contribute comments to E.P.A. regarding the suggested hydraulic fracturing research study may also submit electronic comments to E.P.A. at [email protected] ; or send written comments to:

Jill Dean
E.P.A.
1200 Pennsylvania Ave. NW, Mail code 4606M,
Washington, DC 20460.

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