"Fractured: North Dakota's Oil Boom" | Chicago News | WTTW

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"Fractured: North Dakota's Oil Boom"

Christine Hurley | June 11, 2013, 10:42 am

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$Prairie Potholes: Most of the oil in this region is obtained by fracking, a controversial drilling method that injects fluids into the ground to fracture oil shale. This technique permanently scars the prairielands and is disliked by many area natives, but at the same time it can offer financial benefits for struggling families. Photo: © Terry Evans$

$Scott Davis: Some ranchers like Scott Davis tried, but failed, to stop drilling and fracking on his native prairie, which alter prairie habits and could bring catastrophic global warming closer. However, the oil wells have brought financial rewards to Scott and his family. Their relationship with the oil boom raises tough questions. Photo: © Terry Evans$

$Edyth Pladson: Area resident Edyth Pladson is another example of the struggle between the right and wrong of fracking. She says that it’s nice to have the extra money the oil brings, but she also admits she’s glad she doesn’t live near the drilling sites because she couldn’t stand the noise of fracking and drilling. Photo: © Terry Evans$

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