PODCAST: New research dives into fracking’s impact on water flow in Ohio

(PUBLIC NEWS SERVICE) – Fracking is a very water-intensive industry, and a new study dives into the impact of unconventional oil and gas drilling on aquatic ecosystems in the Ohio River Basin. Ponds, streams and reservoirs typically supply the water for hydraulic fracturing, which is used to create fissures in rock from which oil and gas are extracted. Ohio Northern University Associate Professor of Chemistry Christopher Spiese said examining water-flow reductions is important as it results in reduced depths and the total volume of the water source. “You’re restricting the habitat that fish and invertebrates have to feed and spawn,” said Spiese.