Newfoundland fracking plans cause discord near World Heritage site

Reactions are varied over plans to use hydraulic fracturing close to Gros Morne National Park, in the Newfoundland West Coat.

The tourism industry in this area depends on the natural surroundings as a draw for tourists arriving from all around the world.

CBS News reports that some locals believe that oil exploration would provide jobs and perhaps keep young people from leaving their hometowns.

Mayor of Rocky Harbour, Walter Nicolle, said, "…if there was some economic development to stabilize our communities, it would keep people here longer or even permanently."

However, one resident said that these jobs are short-lived and leave people without work once the drilling is over.

UNESCO will evaluate the environmental risks of oil exploration in the area before any fracking takes place.

Gros Morne National Park was designated as a World Heritage site in 1987. Its status as such is not in danger at this time.

Flickr Photo by: Stephen Melkisethian

STORY WRITTEN BY: KRISTOBAL M. EUGENIO