Learning about hydraulic fracturing

Porter Underwood spoke to the Kiwanis Club about hydraulic fracturing or "fracking." He worked in the oil business for more than 30 years and is now retired from Halliburton Energy Services. Since retiring he has served as a consultant to the energy industry specializing in stimulation recommendations for oil wells.

Underwood explained that fracturing was discovered in 1947 and first used in 1949 to increase production of oil. He admitted that the process has had opponents during later years, but he feels fracturing does not pose an environmental hazard. He says many improvements have been made in the process and advances have seen benefits such as reduced toxicity and reuse of water.

The topic was interesting and resulted in many questions from Kiwanis members. Underwood drew diagrams and answered questions satisfactorily. His presentation was appreciated by all.

Kiwanis is a service club that strives to improve the lives of children locally and throughout the world.

They meet most Wednesdays at noon at the Police Department's Community Room, 220 W. C St. The club is in the midst of a membership drive. Anyone interested in joining or learning more about Kiwanis may call Ron at (661) 823-4848.