Anti-Fracking Documentary 'Gasland' Viewing at The Stable Thursday

The Ridgewood League of Women Voters on Thursday is holding a showing of documentary film "Gasland," which calls into question the politics and environmental impact a controversial gas extraction method would have on the country.

The film, which takes a stand against fracking, will be shown at The Stable between 1 and 3 p.m. The showing is free of charge.

Fracking is accomplished by using a pressurized fracking fluid to carve veins into shale rock deep in the earth. The mini-earthquake that results underground creates cracks around the veins, which results in the release of natural gas. The gas is then brought to the surface in the form of a liquid and is then separated.

Environmentalists have expressed considerable concern the process could lead to irreversible and catostrophic damage to waterways, while proponents say the largely-untapped gas reserves in the U.S. could vastly reduce foreign energy dependence and create jobs.

Governor Christie vetoed a bi-partisan bill that would have banned the practice in New Jersey. The fracking fight remains on hiatus after the Delaware River Water Basin Commission canceled a decisive vote.