A Matter of Trust: The Role of Communities in Energy Decision-Making. Case Study: Shale Gas Exploration, Kent County and Elsipogtog First Nation, New Brunswick

Abstract

Interviews and telephone surveys with community residents revealed that water contamination concerns were consistently the most important factor affecting community member impressions of fracking and efforts to regulate fracking in New Brunswick. For some, the unknown risks associated with water contamination, wastewater, potentially uncontrolled release of methane and uncertainties over number and placement of wells are especially troubling. For others involved in the industry and in the business community, the fact that shale gas extraction, including fracking, had taken place in the Sussex region of the province without incident meant that risks were known and manageable. These individuals consistently spoke of shale gas development to fulfill a need for economic development and jobs, referring to New Brunswick’s high level of debt and deficit.