Impacts of Fracking on Indigenous Reservations in Alberta: Internship Report

Author: Manaia Rehu. Supervisor: Dr Kepa Morgan Hydraulic fracturing or ‘fracking’ is emerging as the future of global energy. Fracking operations are increasing at an alarming rate throughout North America and the rest of the world. However, the process of fracturing fuel-rich subterranean rock deep below the surface to extract oil and gas has great uncertainty surrounding it. The aim of this study is to use the Mauri Model Decision Making Framework to investigate the impacts of fracking on an indigenous reservation in Alberta, Canada. The Mauri Model framework could give insights into the costs and benefits of fracking on the reservation. The results of this study will hopefully aid in improving the decision-making process of oil and gas exploration (especially fracking) in New Zealand.