EPA's Diesel Fracking Rules Are Credibility Test for Companies and Regulators

The recommendations U.S. EPA issued Monday for hydraulic fracturing with diesel ingredients aren't likely to slow drilling or even increase paperwork.

For one thing, in most states they're just that -- recommendations.

And diesel isn't a component in many wells.  EPA says fewer than 2 percent of wells appear to have been fracked with diesel in the mix, and only once as a "base fluid" in place of water.

The diesel fracking issue has been more about the credibility of companies and regulators rather than what is actually going underground.  And its use in questioning regulators' credibility is now only likely to grow.

The guidance could be used as a benchmark against which people -- primarily environmentalists and other critics -- can measure state and local regulations.

"It is a good point of comparison, given EPA's long experience with regulating underground injection," said Briana Mordick, staff scientist at the Natural Resources Defense Council.

EPA appears to be encouraging such comparisons.  In a recent letter to environmental groups, EPA Administrator Gina McCarthy said the diesel guidance, calling for base-line testing and cementing standards, will be useful "wherever hydraulic fracturing occurs."

EPA's Diesel Fracking Rules Are Credibility Test for Companies and Regulators