Fracking limits sought in Loveland, Lafayette

Opponents of hydraulic fracturing have turned in petitions seeking to ban the practice in Lafayette.

The Daily Camera reports petitioners led by the group East Boulder County United turned in 2,042 signatures Tuesday in support of a measure to bar hydraulic fracturing and the disposal of associated waste products in city limits. The city clerk’s office is verifying whether at least 948 of the signatures are valid before the measure can go to voters in November.

Hydraulic fracturing involves blasting water, sand and chemicals underground to free oil and natural gas. The drilling industry says fracking is safe. Opponents have questioned its impacts on health and the environment.

Meanwhile in Loveland, the Loveland Reporter-Herald reports, petitioners turned in signatures Monday supporting a two-year moratorium on oil and gas development there.