Re "Potential for 'fracking' near Moab raises drinking water concerns" (Tribune, Aug. 31):

Those genuinely concerned about water quality — and not just using the issue as a front to oppose oil and gas development — should know that hydraulic fracturing has been used more than 1.2 million times since the 1940s with not one proven case of groundwater contamination. State regulators from across the country consistently affirm this fact.

Want more proof? Earlier this year, Environmental Protection Agency administrator Lisa Jackson said: "In no case have we made a definitive determination that [hydraulic fracturing] has caused chemicals to enter groundwater."

It's also worth noting that more than 99 percent of fracturing fluid is water and sand. Visit http://www.FracFocus.org — which the Obama White House has praised for providing transparency — to find a full listing of the other additives used and their associated descriptions.

The public has a right to ask questions and to have their concerns addressed. But we all have a responsibility to have that discussion based on facts, not accusatory talking points designed for online petitions and fundraising campaigns.

Steve Everley Energy In Depth

Washington, D.C.