The Tennessee Department of Environment and Conservation will hold two public hearings Tuesday, July 10, about proposed new rules regarding hydrofracking, a technique used to extract natural gas.
The hearings are scheduled for 2 and 6 p.m. at the Knoxville Tennessee Department of Environment and Conservation Field Office at 3711 Middlebrook Pike The public is encouraged to attend.
Sandra Goss, executive director, Tennessee Citizens for Wilderness, said, "Hydrofracking has gained favor among oil and gas companies because it provides access to previously unreachable natural gas resources in deep shale formations in an economical manner.
Pennsylvania, Colorado, and other states have experienced pollution of groundwater and surface water resources that is believed to be related to hydrofracking. Hydrofracking is becoming more prevalent in Tennessee, especially in Fentress, Morgan, Overton and Scott counties.
"Several organizations that are concerned with water and air quality worked together to write rules that would limit the damaging effects to our drinking water from hydrofracking.
“We urge Tennesseans who want to protect drinking water to support stronger regulations that protect water resources. It is important to send in comments to the Tennessee Department of Environment and Conservation before July 20, and to speak in support of stronger regulations at the July 10 hearing.”
For more information about fracking and the upcoming public hearings, visit http://www.tcwn.org/frack