While the public meetings have ended, there’s still time to submit public comments on proposed rules for high-volume oil and gas drilling. The Illinois Department of Natural Resources will take written comments through Jan. 3.
More than 27-hundred written comments have been submitted. About 250 people attended the last meeting. The agency will use the comments to evaluate possible rule changes. A panel of legislators will give final approval.
Supporters say fracking will create thousands of jobs. Opponents fear it could pollute water resources.