The objective of this course material is to study the effects of hydraulic fracturing on drinking water. The course material explains hydraulic fracturing technique, which is used to increase oil and gas production from underground rock formations. This course material explains assessment reviews, analysis, and information relevant to the potential impacts of hydraulic fracturing on drinking water resources at each stage of the hydraulic fracturing water cycle. The course material is based on Assessment of the Potential Impacts of Hydraulic Fracturing for Oil and Gas on Drinking Water Resources.

At the conclusion of this course, the learner should have better understanding of the potential impacts of hydraulic fracturing on drinking water resources, as well as an understanding of the following topics:

• The stages of the hydraulic fracturing water cycle
• Proximity of Current Activity and Drinking Water Resources
• Chemical, physical, and toxicological properties of hydraulic fracturing
• Frequency, severity, and causes of spills of flow-back and produced water