When Fracking Comes to Town: Governance, Planning, and Economic Impacts of the US Shale Boom

When Fracking Comes to Town explores how local communities adapt to the challenges of shale gas extraction through fracking, offering a nuanced perspective of development and its impacts.

Format: Hardback
Length: 318 pages
Publication date: 15 January 2022
Publisher: Cornell University Press

When Fracking Comes to Town: Tracing the Response of Local Communities to the Shale Gas Revolution

The shale gas revolution has brought about significant changes in local communities, and When Fracking Comes to Town explores the diverse responses of these communities to this transformative energy extraction process. Rather than portraying communities as powerless in the face of oil and gas companies and their landmen, the book showcases how communities have adapted their local rules and regulations to address the unique challenges posed by unconventional gas extraction through fracking.

This multidisciplinary volume brings together essays from planners, legal scholars, political scientists, and economists, offering a comprehensive perspective on shale gas development and its impacts on municipalities and residents. The contributors embrace the complexity of local responses to fracking, recognizing that states have adapted legal institutions to meet the new challenges, while under-resourced municipal officials and local planning offices have found innovative ways to alleviate pressure on local infrastructure and mitigate the harmful effects of fracking on the environment.

The essays in When Fracking Comes to Town unfold a narrative of community resilience, tracing the rise and decline of shale gas production. Contributors from various fields contribute their insights, providing valuable perspectives on the social, economic, and environmental implications of fracking.

One key theme that emerges is the importance of community engagement and collaboration in addressing the impacts of fracking. Communities have worked together to establish local regulations, set boundaries for drilling operations, and advocate for sustainable practices. This collaborative approach has helped to balance the interests of industry, residents, and the environment, ensuring that fracking is conducted responsibly and with consideration for the well-being of local communities.

Another notable aspect of the book is its recognition of the diverse experiences and perspectives within local communities. Different regions, demographic groups, and economic sectors have responded to fracking in unique ways, reflecting the complex and multifaceted nature of the issue. The essays highlight the need for tailored solutions that account for the specific needs and concerns of each community, recognizing that one-size-fits-all approaches may not be effective in addressing the diverse challenges posed by fracking.

Furthermore, When Fracking Comes to Town explores the economic and social impacts of shale gas development. While the industry has brought economic benefits to some communities, it has also created challenges such as job displacement, environmental degradation, and community displacement. The essays examine the distribution of benefits and costs, highlighting the need for fair and equitable policies that support both industry and local communities.

The book also sheds light on the legal and regulatory frameworks that govern fracking. Contributors discuss the challenges and opportunities presented by state and federal regulations, as well as the role of local governments in shaping the development of shale gas resources. The essays highlight the need for effective governance and regulation that balance the interests of industry, residents, and the environment, ensuring that fracking is conducted in a responsible and sustainable manner.

In conclusion, When Fracking Comes to Town provides a valuable contribution to the ongoing debate about the impacts of shale gas development. By tracing the response of local communities to the shale gas revolution, the book offers a nuanced perspective on the complex issues surrounding this energy extraction process. The multidisciplinary approach and diverse contributions of the contributors shed light on the resilience, creativity, and adaptability of local communities in facing the challenges posed by fracking. As the industry continues to expand, it is essential to continue engaging with and learning from local communities to ensure that fracking is conducted in a manner that benefits both industry and society as a whole.

Weight: 57g
Dimension: 229 x 152 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781501760983