The recently declared drought in Ohio has brought renewed concerns about the large amount of water being used for hydraulic fracturing, or fracking, in the state. The Energy News Network reported on this issue, highlighting the impact of the drought on water availability for various uses, including fracking operations.
Fracking, a process used to extract oil and gas from underground rock formations, requires a significant amount of water. With Ohio experiencing below-average rainfall and hot temperatures, the drought has raised questions about the sustainability of water resources in the region. Environmentalists and community activists have long been vocal about their concerns regarding the environmental impacts of fracking, including water contamination and depletion.
According to the Energy News Network article, the Ohio Department of Natural Resources has issued permits allowing fracking companies to withdraw water from rivers and streams for their operations. This has further exacerbated the worries about the strain on water resources during the drought.
The article also highlighted efforts by some companies to reduce their water usage in fracking operations, such as recycling water and using alternative methods. However, these measures may not be enough to alleviate the concerns of critics who argue that fracking poses significant risks to water quality and availability.
As the drought continues to affect Ohio and other parts of the country, the debate over the use of water for fracking is likely to intensify. Stakeholders from environmental groups, industry representatives, and government agencies will need to collaborate to find sustainable solutions that balance the need for energy production with the protection of water resources.
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