The term ‘fracking’ comes from the process of fracturing the shale rocks in which natural gas is stored by forcing a mixture of water, chemicals, and sand inside the rock to crack it and release the gas. There is some evidence that it can pollute surrounding areas, but the health consequences and environmental impacts of fracking are still being studied.

Learn More

EPA – Hydraulic Fracturing 

New York Times – The Facts on Fracking 

Lehigh Valley Resources

To see where in Pennsylvania fracking is occurring, refer to this map.

For more information on how fracking and the natural gas industry affects the Lehigh Valley, check out Lafayette College’s comprehensive analysis including water contamination in the Lehigh Valley, key players in the Lehigh Valley, and much more.

 

 

The information provided on the website does not in any way constitute an endorsement of any particular organization by the Lehigh Valley Sustainability Network.