Hydraulic fracturing, a method of enhancing oil and gas recovery from wells, dates back to 1947 and started in southwest Kansas.   The first experimental treatment in the United States took place in the Hugoton gas field in Grant County.

Kansas Corporation Commission Conservation Director Doug Louis talked about the 60-year evolution of  “fracking” During Thursday’s annual Kansas Water Office Issues Forum in Hays at the K-State Ag Research Center.

There have been recent media reports about environmental concerns with the technique in other states.  According to Louis, Kansas hasn’t had any problems.  He says there are no reported documented cases of fracking contaminating fresh water in the state.

The Kansas Geological Survey reports 99.51% of a typical fluid used in hydraulic fracturing is comprised of fresh water and sand.  The remaining 0.49% of additives usually come from compounds found in common household goods, such as swimming pool cleaner and cosmetics.

The KCC governs hydraulic fracturing in oil and gas wells, and the subsequent management of fluids and chemicals.

Watch Street Beat Eagle Community TV Channel 14 tonight for more.