PIERRE (AP) — A South Dakota House committee is looking at a measure that would make it clear hydraulic fracturing is an acceptable production technique for oil and gas.
Hydraulic fracturing, also known as ‘‘fracking,’’ involves pumping water, chemicals and grit underground at high pressure to create and prop open cracks in oil-bearing rock. That promotes the flow of oil.
Opponents argue the process could harm underground water supplies, but supporters say it is safe.
South Dakota is seeking to expand the amount of oil and gas production in the state. The fracking process likely would be widely used in oil and gas wells.
The House Agriculture Committee planned to discuss the bill on Thursday.
Hydraulic fracturing, also known as ‘‘fracking,’’ involves pumping water, chemicals and grit underground at high pressure to create and prop open cracks in oil-bearing rock. That promotes the flow of oil.
Opponents argue the process could harm underground water supplies, but supporters say it is safe.
South Dakota is seeking to expand the amount of oil and gas production in the state. The fracking process likely would be widely used in oil and gas wells.
The House Agriculture Committee planned to discuss the bill on Thursday.
