"E.P.A. to Study Chemicals Used to Tap Natural Gas"

"The Environmental Protection Agency  sent letters to nine drilling companies on Thursday requesting detailed information about the chemicals contained in fluids used to crack open underground rock formations in the hunt for oil and natural gas.

The move is part of the federal agency’s preparations for a long-term scientific study of the effects of the practice, known as hydraulic fracturing or “fracking,” on drinking water and public health.

“Natural gas is an important part of our nation’s energy future, and it’s critical that the extraction of this valuable natural resource does not come at the expense of safe water and healthy communities,” the E.P.A. administrator, Lisa P. Jackson, said in a statement."

Tom Zeller Jr. reports for the New York Times September 9, 2010.

SEE ALSO:

"Do ‘Environmental Extremists’ Pose Criminal Threat to Gas Drilling?" (ProPublica)

"Buried Secrets: Gas Drilling's Environmental Threat" (ProPublica Series Portal)

Texas Gas Money Pours into Pennsylvania Politico Coffers (Allentown Morning Call)

"Rendell: No Drilling Moratorium" (Philadelphia Inquirer)

"Pro-Drilling Groups Critical of Natural Gas Drilling Moratorium" (Scranton Times Tribune)

"Pa. Game Commission Hoping for a Cut of Shale Tax" (AP)