EPA says fracking does not harm drinking water

WASHINGTON — Hydraulic fracturing to drill for oil and natural gas has not caused widespread harm to drinking water in the U.S., the Environmental Protection Agency said today.

But a draft report issued by the agency found several specific instances where poorly constructed drilling wells and improper wastewater management affected drinking water resources.

The report said the number of cases was small, however, compared to the large number of wells that use hydraulic fracturing, better known as fracking.

The controversial drilling technique could affect drinking water if safeguards are not maintained, the report said.

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