Hydraulic Fracturing or ‘fracking’ is a technique for releasing oil and natural gas from underground by fracturing deep rock formations with pressurized water, sand and other chemicals. The process remains controversial in Florida and around the nation. Proponents point to fracking’s economic benefits and say it can help provide energy here in Florida, where about 60% of the overall electricity produced comes from natural gas. Opponents highlight Florida’s unique geology and hydrology saying the scientific data to show that fracking is safe isn’t there. They also point to environmental concerns such as the risks of groundwater contamination and the amount of water used in the process. State Rep. Ray Rodrigues, R-Fort Myers, sponsored legislation this year that would have required companies to inform the state Department of Environmental Protection of the chemicals they use in fracking activity to be listed in a national registry. Another measure sponsored by Rep. Rodrigues would have allowed DEP officials to exempt any chemicals used in fracking from public disclosure as company trade secrets. Neither of those bills made it through this year’s legislative session, leaving hydraulic fracturing unregulated in Florida. We’ll explore the benefits and risks and the future of fracking in Florida.
Guests:
Jennifer Hecker, Director of Natural Resource Policy at the Conservancy of Southwest Florida
State Rep. Ray Rodrigues, R-Fort Myers representing District 76
