Fracking sand could cause health problems
Thursday, October 9, 2014
According to The Beaver County Times, sand used for fracking can cause serious health problems, such as lung disease.
Oil and gas companies use sand to keep fractures open during the fracking process so that oil or natural gas can continue to flow out of the rock. Even though sand used in Midwest shale drilling is cleaned and treated, there is still silica dust present.
In Pennsylvania’s Marcellus Shale, drilling activity is growing, so more sand will be needed as more oil and gas is extracted.
“The silica can embed itself deep into a person’s lung tissue and cannot be expelled by coughing. Silicosis is the most common lung disease, and there is no known cure.”
Related story: Investors turn to fracking sand for profit
Via: The Beaver County Times > Study: Sand mining for fracking operations could affect region’s water, air quality
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What are mineral rights?
Mineral rights are the rights of the owner of the property to mine or produce any resources below the surface of the property. Mineral rights are different from surface rights.
Will I get free natural gas if I allow fracking on my property?
Maybe. It depends on your particular lease agreement. Some companies allow property owners a yearly free gas allowance. But, the process of connecting your property to the gas source may be more complicated. Some companies will provide a hookup, others require the landowner to provide one.