Regulatory Recommendations For Quebec's Utica Shale Gas Play To Ensure The Significant Environmental Risks Associated With Hydraulic Fracturing Are Addressed Properly
Abstract
Unconventional shale gas plays are becoming commercial in various locations across North America, with one of the newest plays known as the ‘Utica shale’ being found in the province of Quebec. The Utica is a shale gas formation that will require the implementation of hydraulic fracturing. In Quebec the future of the Utica’s development is largely unclear because of the significant concern and public opposition over hydraulic fracturing procedures. In March of 2011 the province of Quebec placed a moratorium on hydraulic fracturing until a thorough strategic environmental assessment is completed. This paper examines the significant environmental risks associated with hydraulic fracturing and proposes regulatory suggestions for how the province of Quebec should mitigate theses risks in their Utica shale gas play. A precautionary approach to hydraulic fracturing is recommended in this paper to ensure that best practices are implemented and that the adverse affects associated with hydraulic fracturing are mitigated.
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Citation
Steed, R. (2012). Regulatory Recommendations For Quebec's Utica Shale Gas Play To Ensure The Significant Environmental Risks Associated With Hydraulic Fracturing Are Addressed Properly (Unpublished report). University of Calgary, Calgary, AB.