Did you know that Vermont was the first state in the United States to ban fracking for gas and oil? In 2012, then-Governor Peter Shumlin set the precedent for the rest of the country by signing a bill that prohibits the practice of extracting natural gas from the ground in the Green Mountain State. While Vermont doesn’t have an abundance of natural energy resources, the symbolic ban has put Vermont on the map as the first state to ban fracking in the United States. Read on to learn more about this practice and law.

Some of the many things that make Vermont special include the state's Green Mountains, stunning lakes, outdoor seasonal activities, maple syrup, and leaf peeping in Fall.
Flickr/AliceWonderingLand
Although fracking has been banned in Vermont, the practice of drilling for gas and oil has detrimental effects on the environment. This includes emitting toxic chemicals such as methane and releasing pollutants into the air.
grandriver/E+ via Getty Images
Fracking can also cause water that's underground to become contaminated too.
Flickr/Mary Crandall

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Under the leadership of former Governor Peter Shumlin, H.464 - the law to ban fracking was signed on May 16, 2012.
Wikipedia/campaign staff
Along with setting an example for the entire country, Vermont residents and visitors can feel safe as they enjoy the great outdoors...
Flickr/Jenn Deering Davis
...and memorable sunsets too.
Flickr/Daniel McGrotty

Were you aware that Vermont was the first state in the country to ban the practice of fracking? If so, let us know your thoughts in the following comments section.

In addition, if you’re curious to know more about notable firsts in Vermont that make the state so special, take a look at these historical facts about the Green Mountain State. These notable firsts in Vermont might leave you surprised and impressed as well.

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