Fracking is the process of drilling down into the earth before a high-pressure water mixture is directed at the rock to release the gas inside.
The process can be carried out vertically or, more commonly, by drilling horizontally to the rock layer and can create new pathways to release gas or can be used to extend existing channels.
Fracking has been known to cause small earth tremors and Southern Illinois is in the New Madrid Seismic Zone, which could be potentially life threating for millions of people. Fracking also releases harmful chemicals and has been known to contaminate surrounding groundwater.
As an example, let's take a look at Pennsylvania, just last year they've confirmed a fracking-related earthquake and has many reports of contaminated water that can actually catch fire.
As Southern Illinoisans and the American people, we need to fight for what's right. We need to say no to fracking before we harm ourselves and our environment!
