Category Archives: Energy

USGS Energy Resources Program establishes national data archive

  In accordance with provisions stipulated by the Energy Policy Act of 2005, the USGS Energy Resources Program conducts research, compiles data, and provides information about energy resources in the United States. Provisions of the bill established the National Geological … Continue reading

Posted in Energy, Environmental data, Geomapping, Groundwater | Comments Off on USGS Energy Resources Program establishes national data archive

Texas lawmakers thirsty for water funding in 83rd Legislature

  Water remains a high priority for the members of the Texas 83rd Legislature session. According to the Texas Water Development Board (TWDB), an alarming 96% of Texas is currently experiencing drought conditions, with the statewide water reservoir only 67% … Continue reading

Posted in Energy, Groundwater, Industry news | Comments Off on Texas lawmakers thirsty for water funding in 83rd Legislature

EPA releases update on study of hydraulic fracturing

  As the use of hydraulic fracturing (“fracking”) technologies has increased in the United States, so have concerns about its impacts on human health and the environment. In response, the US Congress has requested the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to … Continue reading

Posted in Energy, Environmental data, Groundwater, Industry news, Regulatory issues | Comments Off on EPA releases update on study of hydraulic fracturing

Proposed rule changes for hydraulic fracturing in Texas

  Last week, we posted a blog article discussing the hydraulic fracturing (“fracking”) process as well as environmental concerns associated with the practice. Although there is no conclusive evidence that the fracturing of shale formations poses hazards to the environment, … Continue reading

Posted in Energy, Groundwater, Industry news, Regulatory issues | Comments Off on Proposed rule changes for hydraulic fracturing in Texas

Hydraulic fracturing and the chemicals involved

  Hydraulic fracturing or “fracking” – a method for extracting natural gas from shale formations deep below ground – is currently a topic of frequent discussion. So what exactly is fracking? This video explains the basics of the process:

Posted in Energy, Environmental data, Groundwater, Regulatory issues | 2 Comments

Oil sheen spotted near BP Deepwater Horizon drill rig

  Using satellite images to monitor the Deepwater Horizon drill rig that exploded over two years ago, BP spotted a previously undetected oil sheen on September 16. When the sheen was first discovered, the source was unknown. Monitoring the sheen … Continue reading

Posted in Energy, Industry news, Regulatory issues | Comments Off on Oil sheen spotted near BP Deepwater Horizon drill rig