Best Practices In Wastewater Disposal In Hydraulic Fracturing

Controversy and concern over hydraulic fracturing - how to advocate for your clients.

With the United States having an estimated 100 years’ worth of undeveloped gas reserves, the exploration for and the extraction of natural gas from shale formations throughout the United States have taken the forefront in the oil and gas industry, but not without some controversy. There is great controversy and concern over the use of hydraulic fracturing and horizontal drilling as well as the chemicals used to extract gas from shale formations. Environmental and safety concerns about water sources and usage, what chemicals are used in the fracking process, contamination of groundwater, aquifers and water wells, and what to do with the flowback fluids after the fracking process are among the many issues being hotly debated by oil and gas operators, government agencies, and state and federal legislatures. Pending litigation filed by landowners, environmental groups, government agencies, and industry associations; recent laws and regulations imposing additional oversight, disclosure of chemicals, and operational requirements on oil and gas producers; and the numerous, recent fracking studies made by universities, industry producers, and state and federal agencies all impact the exploration and extraction of natural gas from U.S. shale plays. This information will explain the hydraulic fracturing process, how hydraulic fracturing affects water resources, and how to effectively advocate for your clients. 

Brian Albrecht is a senior associate in the Houston office of Norton Rose Fulbright US LLP. His practice focuses on litigation and energy matters. Mr. Albrecht has represented both plaintiffs and defendants in commercial litigation cases in state and federal court.

Learning Objectives

• You will be able to discuss the importance of shale natural gas to the economy.
• You will be able to explain regulation of hydraulic fracturing.
• You will be able to review litigation involving hydraulic fracturing.
• You will be able to discuss disclosure of hydraulic fracturing fluids.