Baseline Water Quality Assessment for Hydraulic Fracturing Operations
As the oil and gas industry continues to expand, many deposits are slated for horizontal hydraulic fracturing (fracking) operations. While these reservoirs are often located at significant depths, the drilling process invariably intersects with groundwater aquifers. To safeguard the integrity of these vital water resources in areas where hydraulic fracturing is planned, comprehensive baseline water quality assessments are essential.
Importance of Water Quality Monitoring:
- Pre-Operation Baseline: Establishing water quality parameters prior to drilling activities provides a crucial reference point.
- Ongoing Monitoring: Continuous assessment during extraction operations allows for real-time detection of potential impacts.
- Post-Operation Evaluation: Analysis after the completion of oil and gas activities helps identify any long-term effects on water quality.
- Regulatory Compliance: Many states mandate water quality testing as a prerequisite for obtaining permits related to various phases of oil and gas extraction.
Standard Water Quality Parameters:
Our laboratory conducts thorough analyses of the following key parameters:
- Dissolved Methane Sample: 40 ml vial preserved with HCl Significance: Indicator of potential gas migration
- BTEX (Benzene, Toluene, Ethylbenzene, Xylenes) Sample: Two 40 ml vials preserved with HCl Significance: Volatile organic compounds associated with petroleum products
- General Chemistry Panel Sample: One liter plastic container Parameters: pH, Alkalinity, Specific Conductance, Total Dissolved Solids, Chloride, Sulfate, Nitrite Significance: Provides overall water quality profile and potential indicators of contamination
- Nitrate Sample: 250 ml plastic container preserved with H2SO4 Significance: Important nutrient that can indicate surface contamination
- Metals Panel Sample: 250 ml plastic container preserved with HNO3 Elements Analyzed: Arsenic, Barium, Calcium, Chromium, Iron, Magnesium, Selenium, Cadmium, Lead, Manganese, Mercury, and Silver Significance: Detects potential heavy metal contamination and changes in mineral composition
By conducting these comprehensive analyses, stakeholders can:
- Establish a robust baseline of water quality before operations commence
- Monitor for any changes that may occur during the extraction process
- Assess potential environmental impacts post-operation
- Ensure compliance with local and state regulations
*Our state-of-the-art laboratory facilities and experienced team of environmental scientists are committed to providing accurate, timely, and actionable data to support responsible resource extraction while protecting vital groundwater resources.
