The Psychosocial and Community Effects of Hydraulic Fracturing in Western Colorado: An Analysis of Citizens’ Concerns

• In Event: 254 - Section on Environment and Technology Roundtables (one-hour)
  In Refereed Roundtable: Table 05. Fracking

Abstract

Most discourse on the effects of oil and gas development using high volume hydraulic fracturing (HVHF) has focused on the potential for environmental pollution and subsequent health effects. This study analyzes citizens’ concerns about perceived and anticipated psychosocial effects of HVHF. After a Health Impact Assessment (HIA) was conducted on a proposed HVHF project in western Colorado, community stakeholders were invited to submit questions, criticisms, and comments regarding the HIA and the project. The responses of current and former residents were then analyzed using qualitative content analysis methods. Citizens’ comments were based on their current or previous experiences with HVHF in the area surrounding their community as well as their concerns about the proposed project. Four themes emerged in citizens’ concerns about the effects of HVHF, including loss of community; decreased quality of life; feelings of powerlessness, betrayal, and distrust; and increased mental health problems. These results are consistent with, but add significantly greater detail to, other emerging research from studies in eastern states describing psychosocial and community effects from HVHF. These data illustrate how significant community change can act as a non-chemical health stressor and how failure to protect the structure and fabric of a community may lead to subsequent psychosocial and health consequences. Addressing concerns about the psychosocial and community effects of HVHF will improve the health and well-being of residents in oil and gas development areas and may improve communications between citizens, industry, and regulators. Suggestions for interventions involving local governments and industry are discussed.

Author

• Karen Albright, University of Colorado