SNAPP: Impacts of hydraulic fracturing on water quantity and quality for nature and people: Are we prepared for the future?

Global demand for energy continues to increase and the new technologies of horizontal drilling with hydraulic fracturing allow extraction of new shale reserves. Shale oil and gas development provides economic benefits and less air pollution than other fossil fuels, but hydraulic fracturing also uses large quantities of water and produces toxic chemicals. Better science can help predict and avoid conflicts between shale energy development and the need for clean safe waters for people and natural systems. The Science for Nature and People (SNAP) Hydraulic Fracturing Working Group will synthesize fine-scale information across the 48 contiguous United States on: well locations, water and chemical use, other water needs, watershed importance to drinking water, and location of sensitive species, to assess the effects of current and projected future hydraulic fracturing development on water quantity and quality. The project will also review existing water use and waste management plans to develop policy recommendations and best management practices to help states and countries mitigate the risks identified.