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. Past attempts to regulate fracking through the state legislature have failed leaving hydraulic fracturing unregulated in Florida. Now, State Rep. Ray Rodrigues, R-Fort Myers, and Sen. Garrett Richter, R-Naples, have filed companion bills for the 2016 state legislative session that among other things would preempt local ordinances that ban fracking like the one passed in July by the Bonita Springs City Council. Meanwhile, Sen. Darren Soto, D-Orlando, has sponsored a measure that would ban fracking in the state altogether. We’ll hear from both sides as we 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
David Mica, Executive Director of the Florida Petroleum Council
Ben Nelson, Mayor of the City of Bonita Springs
