Author: Mark Gaffigan

Publisher: DIANE Publishing

Published: 2011-05

Total Pages: 75

ISBN-13: 1437943411

Oil shale deposits in Colorado, Utah, and Wyoming are estimated to contain up to 3 trillion barrels of oil -- or an amount equal to the world's proven oil reserves. About 72% of this oil shale is located beneath federal lands. Extracting this oil is expected to require substantial amounts of water and could impact groundwater and surface water. This report examined: (1) what is known about the potential impacts of oil shale development (OSD) on surface water and groundwater; (2) what is known about the amount of water that may be needed for OSD; (3) the extent to which water will likely be available for OSD and its source; and (4) federal research efforts to address impacts to water resources from OSD. Charts and tables. This is a print on demand report.