Skip to main content

Fracking Boom Straining Some of Driest Areas in U.S.

The proliferation of fracking is driving up water prices and depleting aquifers in parts of the country that are still reeling from severe drought.

Republish
Lead image for this article
Credit: David R. Tribble / Zsuzsanna Kilian

Garance Burke of The Associated Press reports that the proliferation of hydraulic fracturing, or fracking, is putting stress on some of the country's driest regions. The water-intensive practice — which is growing in drought-stricken states like Arkansas, Colorado, New Mexico, Texas, Utah and Wyoming — is driving up water prices and putting pressure on aquifers.

Texas Tribune donors or members may be quoted or mentioned in our stories, or may be the subject of them. For a complete list of contributors, click here.

Texans need truth. Help us report it.

Independent Texas reporting needs your support. The Texas Tribune delivers fact-based journalism for Texans, by Texans — and our community of members, the readers who donate, make our work possible. Help us bring you and millions of others in-depth news and information. Will you support our nonprofit newsroom with a donation of any amount?

Yes, I'll donate today

Information about the authors

Learn about The Texas Tribune’s policies, including our partnership with The Trust Project to increase transparency in news.

Explore related story topics