EPA: Natural Gas Fracking Linked to Water Contamination

Sydney Wilkinson

Synthesis of Gas Fracking

            Abrahm Lustgarten, Nicholas Kustnez and ProPublica discuss of form of environmental abuse that draws a connection to the a few of the points made in Richard Kahn’s “Toward Ecopedagogy.”  In this article, it is the environment versus EnCana, a gas company that owns the wells in Pavillion, Wyoming.  But more so, it is the environment versus productivity.  Research has been done, and the results have lead the EPA to conclude that gas fracking in this particular area of Wyoming is leading to contamination of the water.  After gas fracking has taken place, many residents have complained of their water quality dramatically lessening, because it would turn brown.  In 2008, and the confirmed in 2010, water samples were taken and Hydrocarbon and other contaminants were found in the water.  Residents were then told it was not only unsafe to drink the water, but that possible explosions could occur after showering if there was not proper ventilation for the methane from the water to be released.  And in November 2011, the EPA drilled 1,000 feet underground and found carcinogenic substances, one commonly used in fracking.

            Perhaps, the most disturbing part of this environmental issue is the response of the spokesperson representing EnCana, the gas company responsible for the fracking in this area.  His response was a condemnation of the lack of evidence, and the inconsistent results found in the EPA’s findings.  Although, the EPA did acknowledge that there could be other sources leading to the contaminated water, they still strongly believe gas fracking is a heavy factor.  And this company’s mindset is so twisted, that their economical benefits and productivity outweighs the possible endangerment of not only the environment but mankind as well.  People were told that their house could explode; yet the company shows no desire to investigate the danger of gas fracking themselves.  The attitude of Doug Hock, the spokesperson, conveys one of indifference towards the threats.  His main concern was defending his company and refuting the claims, not the fact that lives were at stake.  While our cultural mindset of growth and productivity is lifting others up, the process of getting there is becoming a hostile one where one must step on fellow mankind to rise there.