Graham Environmental Sustainability Institute

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hydraulic fracturing in michigan

fracking in benzie county, photo by heather rousseauThere is significant momentum behind natural gas extraction efforts in the United States, with many states embracing it as an opportunity to create jobs and foster economic strength. Natural gas extraction has also been championed as a way to move toward energy independence and a cleaner energy supply. First demonstrated in the 1940’s, hydraulic fracturing is now the predominant method used to extract natural gas in the U.S.

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As domestic natural gas production has accelerated in recent years, however, the hydraulic fracturing process has come under increased public scrutiny. Concerns include perceived lack of transparency, chemical contamination, new techniques, water availability, waste water disposal, and impacts on ecosystems, human health, and surrounding communities. Consequently, numerous hydraulic fracturing studies are being undertaken by government agencies, industry, non-governmental organizations, and academia, yet none have a particular focus on Michigan.

In response to that gap, a unique partnership involving several University of Michigan units, industry representatives, environmental organizations, and state regulators has formed to examine the multiple aspects of this gas extraction technique, with an emphasis on impacts and issues related to the State of Michigan. Using an engaged problem-solving approach called integrated assessment, the project will first compile technical reports on key topics then focus on an analysis of policy options for Michigan.

Michigan Governor Rick Snyder is in support of our collaborative study and commented about it in an energy and environmental policy blueprint released on November 28, 2012.

"It’s important that our citizens understand what fracking is really all about," Gov. Snyder says. "That’s why the University of Michigan’s Graham Sustainability Institute is undertaking an evaluation of fracking. At their invitation, the state is participating in the steering committee for this effort alongside environmental and industry groups. At the end of the process, the public will have well-reasoned, objective explanations of what this technology is and is not. We will also have a Michigan-focused evaluation of the various implications of fracking. This is a great example of collaboration and a public university serving the needs of the state, and I am looking forward to seeing the results."

U-M units involved in the project are:

These U-M units along with representatives from the Office of Governor Rick Snyder, the Department of Environmental Quality, the Michigan Oil and Gas Association, the Michigan Environmental Council, and the Tip of the Mitt Watershed Council form a steering committee to guide the initiative. (Please click here for a full list of steering committee members.) Work started in the fall of 2012 with the formation of the following seven technical report teams:

Comments

As part of the Integrated Assessment, the research teams are inviting the campus community, and the public at large, to submit their questions and/or input using the comment form.

Hydraulic Fracturing Comment Form

Comments will be forwarded to the appropriate team for consideration in their report. Individuals may also submit their contact information via the form in order to receive announcements regarding the project and future meetings. Questions can be directed to grahaminstitute-ia@umich.edu.

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Photo courtesy of Heather Rousseau, Circle of Blue