Scientists Talk Obama Administration Fracking Rules

The new federal rules apply only to fracking on federal lands. The new rules do NOT apply to fracking on private land.

Goals of new rules: protect drinking water & enhance transparency

What do the new rules require?

• Drilling wells must be encased in cement through vulnerable areas 
• Pressure tests, called mechanical integrity tests, will be required 
• Geological analysis of a well site will be required before fracking takes place
• The temporary use of open waste pits will be prohibited except in rare circumstances.

Scientific American