Chaco Canyon Region

Katie Keaveny 

Fracking Tour 

Our second site was in the Greater Chaco Canyon region, where we stayed at Angel Peak Campground in Northern New Mexico, not far from the four corners. We had the privilege to meet with several people in the community, who are fighting against the incessant drilling and fracking that is happening where they live. The amount of land that is being leased for oil and gas is alarming and the numbers keep going up. Daniel Tso took us on a fracking tour of the area to show where the drilling and fracking is taking place, and how close it is to homes, schools, people, and livestock. He informed us of the detrimental health impacts from the chemicals that are released into the air from the process and the effects that these chemicals have had already on many people’s health. There is no consideration for human lives when it comes to fracking. Millions of gallons of water are also used in the fracking process, and then polluted water is put back into the ground. The people we met who are working to stop the continuation of fracking in their communities are inspiring to say the least. The fight for clean water, clean air, equal opportunities, peace and justice should be one that we all continue to engage in. 

Drilling.

Exploitation. 

Replaying of History. 

Trauma. 

Hurt. 

Confusion. 

Injustice. 

Anger. 

Hope.  

Fighting... 

For 

Change. 

Life. 

Breath.  

Love and Respect. 

Protection. 

Basic human rights.