Jul 25 -

A research project led by Dr. Groat at the University of Texas concluded in February that there was no direct link between fracking and groundwater contamination, however, Groat is reported to have (significant financial) ties with a Houston based fracking and exploration company. Having attended a university well known for its research and academic contributions to society, I find this report sickening. Academia’s place in the world is to conduct un-biased research and tackle issues to move science and understanding forward for the world. By biasing reports such as Groat’s, there is more opportunity to hurt society by continuing in our current projection without correcting our previous mistakes. Fracking companies will not change processes or look to invest in new technologies if all is said to be perfectly safe for the environment. Understanding mistakes moves society forward and matures processes until they are virtually flawless, and the faster we can get there… the better.