Hydraulic Fracturing in the Marcellus Shale: Water and Health, Facts vs. Fiction

Increased awareness about using a highly technical process called hydraulic fracturing to recover natural gas trapped deep within the Marcellus shale has created questions about related human-health and environmental impacts. Associated arguments, both pro and con, have often been subjective, emotional and unscientific. This publication by the American Council on Science and Health is aimed at systematic, objective review of documented types and rates of hydrofracturing-fluid-and chemical-related incidents affecting human health, to date, in the region of the Marcellus Shale Play.