Click play to listen to this article.

Protesters are gathering at the Ohio statehouse today to voice opposition to plans that could expand fracking activities near the state's parks.

Participants are raising concerns over environmental and health risks, emphasizing the potential dangers to Ohio's natural spaces.

Jenny Morgan, a longtime activist and environmental advocate, highlighted the potential health hazards associated with fracking.

"This accident-prone industry that uses dangerous chemicals, creates radioactive waste," said Morgan. "Ohio park lovers are not being properly informed of the risk to the lands that they own, where they take their children. It's wrong."

Morgan cited a 2022 Harvard study linking fracking to increased radioactive particles in areas downwind of drilling sites.

The Ohio Oil and Gas Association defends the industry, asserting that advances in technology and oversight minimize risks, while emphasizing the economic benefits and jobs it brings to the state.

Melinda Zemper - a steering committee member of Save Ohio Parks - stressed the importance of preserving Ohio's public lands for future generations, and said the public deserves more transparency about the long-term effects of fracking.

"These are public lands that belong to the people of Ohio, not to one or two political administrations," said Zemper. "We want our children - and our grandchildren - to be able to enjoy these natural resources in perpetuity, because that's how they were established."

Roxanne Groff, a former Athens County commissioner and environmental activist, noted how industry promises have shaped local perceptions.

"Sadly," said Groff, "what keeps most people from Appalachia from participating in the protesting is they believe the industry lies that they are going to get jobs, and they're going make money, and their communities are going to prosper. People fight to get their leases bought."

The protest, set to take place at 12:15 p.m, is part of a growing movement across Ohio to raise awareness about the environmental costs of fracking.