In simple terms, the speaker is conveying their extensive experience in hydraulic fracturing—a process used to extract oil and natural gas from deep underground reservoirs—and claiming that over thousands of instances of this practice, they never encountered issues with aquifers. Aquifers are crucial water sources located above or below ground, often providing drinking water for communities.
The deeper meaning behind the statement reflects a debate within the energy industry and environmental circles about the safety and impact of hydraulic fracturing. The speaker's confidence in their record suggests that, from their perspective, fracking can be conducted without significant harm to groundwater resources. However, this view contrasts sharply with concerns raised by critics who argue that even minor risks associated with fracking could have severe consequences for water quality and public health. The statement serves as a testament to the ongoing debate about the balance between energy development and environmental protection.
The quote is attributed to T. Boone Pickens, an American oilman and businessman known for his significant contributions to the petroleum industry over several decades. Pickens was not only a prolific entrepreneur but also a vocal advocate for natural gas usage in transportation and as a clean alternative energy source. His statement encapsulates his perspective on the environmental risks associated with fracking based on his extensive experience in the field.
