Monster Fracks: The Thirsty Reality of America's Oil Boom

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Giant new oil and gas wells demand staggering amounts of water for hydraulic fracturing, jeopardizing America's vulnerable aquifers.

In Texas, BP used millions of gallons of freshwater to frack for fossil fuels, highlighting the dire need for ample water supplies in oil extraction.

The oil industry's water consumption has reached record levels, with fracking wells using seven times more water since 2011.

Since 2011, oil and gas operators have used 1.5 trillion gallons of water, mostly from aquifers, with individual wells consuming up to 40 million gallons.

"Monster fracks" have become the norm, constituting nearly two-thirds of Texas' fracking wells, straining already over-exploited aquifers.

Fracking's controversial process raises concerns about spills, leaks, earthquakes, and the irony of diverting vast amounts of water to produce fossil fuels.

The New York Times investigation reveals the surge in water usage by examining an industry database, exposing the industry's significant growth.

Texas faces severe water scarcity, with groundwater supply expected to decline by one-third by 2070, potentially impacting oil and gas production.

Major oil companies, including BP, EOG, Apache, Chevron, and Southwestern Energy, have intensified water usage while facing minimal regulations.

Public resistance, lawsuits, and fights against fracking projects emerge as communities and tribes recognize the threat to water resources.

Oil industry representatives claim a focus on meeting energy demands while minimizing environmental impacts, emphasizing water reuse and recycling.