Say "NO" to fracking.... 1. Lack of Exploring New Energy Sources: The main conflict between those who support fracking and those who do not is more of a philosophical split. Fracking detractors claim that continuing to exploit every square inch of the nation, in a desperate search for more natural gas and oil is only delaying the inevitable. The belief that renewable energy should be taking priority over discovering new sources of gas and oil is pervasive. 2. Water Droughts: Considering the fact that over half the nation is currently experiencing water droughts, the concept of using massive amounts of water to probe underground for oil and gas that may not even be available has given pause to many environmental observers. 3. Increased Pollution: Conventional drilling uses far less water, but is not always as effective. Fracking has been linked to a decrease in water supplies in areas where it has been conducted. This is especially true in instances where multiple darlings occur at the same site. There is also concern about the increase in pollution to the water and air in the surrounding areas where fracking takes place. Water supplies in fracking zones have been known to show an increased presence of toxic chemicals. In addition, these toxins are also released into the air, which leads to an increase in air pollution. Waste water from fracking is almost impossible to fully dispose of. Anywhere from 10 to 40 percent of fracking waste water flows back to the original drilling surface. This could have far reaching long term consequences, as ground water supplies can become contaminated. 4. Spread of Toxins: There is essentially no way for local communities to prepare themselves for specific chemicals, as fracking companies are not required by law to provide a list of which chemicals they will be using for the job. Scientists are also at a loss for predicting potential downfalls, and emergency personnel are unprepared for accidents that could occur. 5. Noise Pollution: Residents of areas where fracking takes place also have concerns about the effect that the consistent presence of heavy vehicles has on their daily lives. These heavy vehicles cause increased noise pollution in residential areas and turn them into industrial work zones. Since fracking is conducted at all hours of the day and night, this causes consternation for those who are affected by the additional light and noise.`