Fracking and the Marcellus Shale

Hydraulic fracturing, otherwise known as fracking, is a process by which fluids are injected deep underground at high pressure, in order to break up oil-bearing rock formations and force oil and gas to the surface. A particular geological formation located under parts of Pennsylvania and New York, the Marcellus Shale, contains large deposits of these fossil fuels, which have brought cash to poor rural communities. The issue is highly controversial due to the conflict between the need to phase out fossil fuels and the economic needs of communities. Contamination of water supplies with fracking fluids has also been an ongoing issue.