Rio Texas Methodist Federation for Social Action

Issues Related To Hydraulic Fracturing, or “Fracking”

“No one should have to trade their health or quality of life for cheap energy, and that’s why EDF is fighting for tough rules and strict oversight.”

Environmental Defense Fund’s (EDF) mission is to protect the natural systems on which all life depends. In some parts of the U.S., irresponsible natural gas operations threaten those systems.  Today, around 45,000 shale gas wells operate in the U.S. – triple the number in 2005.  Some have damaged water and air quality, imposing unacceptable impacts on public health and the environment.

The Southwest Texas chapter of the MFSA will meet Thursday, April 11 in the Fellowship Hall at Saint John’s UMC.  Virginia Palacios, research analyst with EDF’s U.S. Energy and Climate program, will explain the mechanics of hydraulic fracturing, discuss the public health and environmental impacts of shale gas development, and share EDF’s approach on how to minimize the impacts associated with natural gas development.  Ms. Palacios joined Environmental Defense Fund in July 2012 to work on the Natural Gas Campaign. Her work involves investigating technological and regulatory solutions for reducing methane and hazardous air pollutant emissions from the oil and gas supply chain. Additionally, Virginia has compiled and analyzed data on water issues related to hydraulic fracturing in Texas, including chemical disclosure, water availability, and parameters for baseline water quality testing.

Come at 6:30 p.m. for snacks and mingling; the program begins at 7p.m. Invite your friends and neighbors – all are welcome.