Registration open, but no ‘fracking’ permits yet
SPRINGFIELD — Companies that want to perform high-volume oil and gas drilling in Illinois may begin registering with the state.
But it will be several months before companies may apply for a permit to use the drilling process known as hydraulic fracturing, or “fracking.”
Gov. Pat Quinn signed a law regulating fracking in July. It created a two-step permit application process that requires companies to first register with the Illinois Department of Natural Resources.
IDNR won’t accept applications for drilling permits until a legislative committee approves rules. Spokesman Chris McCloud says that process — which will include public hearings — will take months.
Fracking uses high-pressure mixtures of water, chemicals and sand to crack rock formations deep underground to release oil and gas.
Opponents fear it will pollute and deplete water resources.