Scope of Hydraulic Fracturing Review Available for Public Comment

People across the province are invited to provide their views on hydraulic fracturing.

Energy Minister Charlie Parker and Environment Minister Sterling Belliveau announced today, April 20, that Nova Scotians can provide written comments on the scope proposed for a provincewide review.

"Government is undertaking a comprehensive technical and policy review of hydraulic fracturing that will examine the environmental impacts of this technique and identify how these issues are managed in other jurisdictions," said Mr. Parker. "We encourage Nova Scotians to participate in this review by providing written comments on its scope."

The province announced April 4, that a team of senior technical and policy staff will review potential environmental issues associated with hydraulic fracturing, a technique used to free natural gas trapped in shale formations. They will also draw on external expertise as required.

"Nova Scotians want to know that our water is safe and our environment is protected," said Mr. Belliveau. "We look forward to hearing from Nova Scotians, and hope they will comment so they are reflected in the scope of the review."

The review will identify industry best practices and will include reviews of other jurisdictions across Canada and the United States.

All comments will be considered when writing the final scope. The departments will not respond to individual comments. The final review scope and public submissions will be available online.

The public can provide written comments on the topic areas to be included in the scope by e-mail at frac-review@gov.ns.ca , online at www.gov.ns.ca/nse/pollutionprevention/consultation.hydraulic.fracturing.asp or by mail to:
Hydraulic Fracturing Study Environmental Science and Program Management Division Nova Scotia Environment P.O. Box 442 Halifax, N.S. B3J 2P8

The deadline for submissions is June 6. Nova Scotians will also have an opportunity to provide written comments before any regulatory changes are made.

The review is expected to be finished by early next year.