June 2nd, 2016 by WCBC Radio

Those involved in a West Virginia University fracking project are praising its success after the first year.

The Exponent Telegram reports WVU began the Marcellus Shale Energy Environmental Laboratory project last June.

The study is meant to give a look at the hydraulic fracking process over five years.

Those involved in the project say it has put West Virginia and the school at the cutting edge of research.

Brian Anderson, professor of chemical engineering and director of the WVU Energy Institute, says two production wells were drilled last fall, along with a scientific observation well.

Anderson says he has spoken about the impact of the project in China, and that delegations from Colombia and Mexico have visited regarding the project.