The Inequitable Effects of Oil and Gas Exploration on Affordable Housing in Rural Impacted Communities

• In Event: 411 - Section on Inequality, Poverty, and Mobility Refereed Roundtable Session and Business Meeting
  In Refereed Roundtable 60min: Table 10. Neighborhoods, Housing, and Inequality.

Abstract

Social consequences of fracking for oil and gas extraction in rural communities has been highly ignored in the literature. In this ethnographic study, interviews with stakeholders within a dominant oil and gas deposit in South Texas explored social consequences related to housing stability, government and resident responses, and the impact of fracking activity in these rural areas. This paper documents short-run high rental prices, a decrease of affordable housing, expanded temporary housing for oil workers, and vulnerable populations experiencing displacement. Disparate impact of the oil and gas exploration may inhibit emergent social movements in the area against fracking.

Authors

• Harriett D. Romo, University of Texas at San Antonio

• Marissa Mendoza, University of Texas-San Antonio

• Christina Eloise Lopez-Mobilia, UTSA

• Gregorio Ortiz, University of Colorado Boulder

• Matthew Martinez, University of Texas-San Antonio