This lecture by Dr. Mark Williams from the University of Colorado Boulder gives an overview on the controversial topic of hydraulic fracturing (also known as "fracking"). What is it and how does it affect our water supply? This video is part of the Water in the Western US project.
Dr. Mark Williams is a Professor Emeritus of Geography. His research focused on the processes that determine the hydrochemistry and biogeochemistry of high-elevation basins including the storage and release of solutes from the snowpack, biogeochemical modifications of snowpack runoff, nutrient cycling, and hydrologic pathways and residence time.
Water in the Western US is a free course, “Water in the Western United States,” offered through the platform Coursera, runs for five weeks, accommodates flexible schedules, and requires a total of 15 hours to complete. The course’s five modules are open for learners to complete at any time.
Over a dozen experts in water management, policy, and research contributed to the course to help learners consider the scientific, legal, political, and cultural issues impacting water and climate in the Western United States. Building on this foundational understanding of climate and water in the West, students examine the Colorado River Basin as a case study and conclude the class with a deeper understanding of controversial water issues faced in the American West.
