Scientist speaking on west coast fracking concerns

An internationally-recognized environmental scientist will be giving a lecture in Stephenville on Sunday afternoon on concerns about the practice of hydraulic fracturing.

Jessica Ernst, who has 30 years of experience working in the oil and gas industry as an environmental consultant, will speak on the proposed Black Spruce fracking project for western Newfoundland.

The proposal has sparked heated debate over plans to drill exploration wells near Gros MorneNational Park, pending two environmental reviews.

Ernst gained international attention in 2011, when she filed a lawsuit against Encana for allegedly contaminating her land and groundwater in Rosebud, Alberta.

Sunday's meeting is set to begin at 2 p.m. at the Stephenville Arts and Culture Centre.