Texas is currently facing a water crisis, and the state is exploring unconventional solutions to tackle the shortage. One such proposal being considered involves reusing fracking water to alleviate the dwindling water supply. This so-called produced water, a byproduct of industrial processes, would undergo a cleaning and treatment process before being utilized to replenish dry water sources and irrigate crops in Texas.
Commissioner Sid Miller of the Texas Agriculture Department expressed support for the idea, emphasizing the importance of having a reliable source of clean water for agricultural purposes. Miller highlighted the potential for utilizing fracking water as a viable option, provided that it meets stringent quality standards. The state is on the verge of establishing regulations and oversight mechanisms through the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ) to ensure the safety and suitability of the recycled water for various applications, including irrigation and consumption.
As the debate unfolds, oil and gas companies are seeking legal protection through House Bill 49, which aims to shield them from liability in case of any issues arising from the sale or treatment of fracking water. The bill has progressed through the legislative process, passing the House and advancing out of a Senate committee. Despite the progress, Commissioner Miller suggests that a more sustainable approach would involve oil and gas companies reusing the treated water for fracking operations, thereby preserving traditional water sources for human consumption. Additionally, Miller expressed disappointment over the failure of a bill intended to regulate fertilizer containing harmful chemicals known as PFAS, emphasizing the need to address environmental concerns at the source to prevent adverse effects on land and livestock.
