Natural gas development research and activities at the
School of Public Affairs at the University of Colorado - Denver:
- Understanding the Regional and Community Impacts and Policy Issues and Management Efforts of Recent Natural Gas Development. The Buechner Institute in partnership with the National Association of Regional Councils has begun discussions with regional and local organizations through phone interviews and online surveys which will result in publications describing baseline efforts, views, and understanding of natural gas development in areas with shale gas deposits. The project team is also investigating state regulatory and administrative structures for natural gas development.
- Exploring Opportunites for Consensus in Hydraulic Fracturing-inclusive Oil and Gas Development. Dr. Heikilla and Dr. Weible lead an investigation into policy networks and the framing of news media surrounding current natural gas developments in the United States using hydraulic fracturing. Additionaly, a clearinghouse of publications on the subject of hydraulic fracturing, shale gas, and natural gas development is underway. This research is a result of a grant awarded by the Sloan Foundation.
- Drawing the Blueprint for a Sustainable Natural Gas Future. On January 18, 2012 the Wirth Chair hosted, assisted by Buechner Institute, a conference specifically to discuss shale gas development in Colorado. The morning session consisted of presentations from academic and governement researchers, industry, energy experts, and environmental advocates. In the afternoon, attendees broke into two groups to discuss technical and policy topics related to shale gas development. A White Paper is forthcoming.