Shown is the site of a hydraulic fracturing on Macedonia/Pleasants Ridge.

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency is hosting an informational public meeting in Canonsburg, Washington County, Pa., about its proposed study of the relationship between hydraulic fracturing and potential impacts on drinking water.

The meeting will be held from 6-10 p.m., July 22, at the Hilton Garden Inn in Canonsburg to provide information about the scope and design of the proposed study, and give the public an opportunity provide input and comment on the draft study plan.

Hydraulic fracturing is a process used for extracting natural gas or oil from shale and other geological formations. By pumping fracturing fluids (water and chemical additives) and sand or other similar materials into rock formations, fractures are created that allow natural gas or oil to flow from the rock-through the fractures-to a production well for extraction.

In March 2010, EPA announced that it will study the potential adverse impact that hydraulic fracturing may have on drinking water.

In developing the study, EPA is holding a series of meetings to receive public input about specific drinking water, human health, or environmental concerns that need to be factored into the study.

To support the planning and development of the study, the agency sought suggestions and comments from the EPA Science Advisory Board (SAB), an independent, external federal advisory committee. The agency will use this advice, as well as extensive public input, in designing the study.

EPA requests that citizens who are interested in attending to pre-register by July 19.

EPA also held meetings about the study on July 8 in Fort Worth, Texas, and July 13 in Denver, Colo. One is also scheduled for Aug. 12 in Binghamton, N.Y.

Call 1-866-477-3635 toll free to register or register online at “http://hfmeeting.cadmusweb.com”>hfmeeting.cadmusweb.com.

Those wishing to contribute comments to EPA regarding the proposed hydraulic fracturing research study may also submit electronic comments to EPA at hydraulic.fracturing@ epa.gov; or send written comments to Jill Dean; U.S. Environmental Protection Agency; 1200 Pennsylvania Ave. NW, Mail code 4606M; Washington, DC 20460.