Fracking, Earthquakes and Our Energy Bills

site-Colorado-by-Phoenix-Law-flickr Fracking. This term has quickly become a common household word. But how many of us really know what it means? Let alone how the process affects a person’s everyday life. Retired geologist, John Rakowski, will talk about what the process of fracking is as well as its impact on both the environment and society at the Pikes Peak Historical Society’s February Chautauqua.

John will speak on the evolution of “fracking” from post-Civil War times to the present. He will discuss the advantages of horizontal drilling and fracking as well as the downsides of the two processes. We’ll learn about the sudden increase in earthquake activity in the Mid Continent region of the United States and why it’s occurring. John will also discuss how horizontal drilling and fracking impacts our energy bills.

John’s mineral and fossil collection, began in his early teen years, includes minerals collected in the Pikes Peak area from the early 1960’s to the present. He later earned a degree in Geology. He has worked as an exploration and exploitation geologist in the oil and gas industry for over 40 years. His profession has taken him to locations throughout the U.S. and several countries overseas. John chose to retire to the Florissant area and is now active with the Pikes Peak Historical Society and the Lake George Gem & Mineral Club. John is a member of the Society of Independent Professional Earth Scientists and the Division of Professional Affairs of the American Association of Petroleum Geologists and is also a member of Professional Geological Societies in the Rockies and Gulf Coast.

The Pikes Peak Historical Society invites you to learn more about fracking, the environment and the resulting effects at their monthly Chautauqua (free program) on Sunday, February 19th, at 2:00 pm at the Florissant Library. The Library is located adjacent to the Florissant Community Park on 334 Circle Drive in Florissant. This program is presented as a public service of the Pikes Peak Historical Society. Admission is free and refreshments are served. No reservation is required but arrive early, seating is limited. For more information call 719-748-8259 or 719-748-3861.