Hydraulic fracturing effects on local populations in the Bakken region of North Dakota

by Rachel Rees

Submitted : Fall 2016

Williston and Fargo are located within the Bakken region of North Dakota. Both cities experienced an influx in their populations from 2000 to 2015 due to the expansion of oil production in the area. By comparing the rates of change in both the population and number of wells conclusions regarding the relationship between hydraulic fracturing effect and its effects on local populations can be made. To achieve this the rates of change were collected and compared. It was observed that the number of well sites has been growing exponentially in the 15 year period whereas the population is increasing at a slower rate. Additionally, Williston is expanding at a higher rate than Fargo possibly due to its closer proximity to drilling sites.

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