Harvard worldmap: A tool for visualizing and sharing hydrofracking data

The Harvard WorldMap , HWM, is a recently developed tool for the visualization of data from multiple sources and in multiple formats such as text, image, and geocoded formats. It is a free, open source, public domain software that incorporates GIS data into layers that can be viewed separately or in any combination in order to reveal relationships that provoke new questions and hypotheses. HWM is designed for collaboration across researchers and is especially highly suited for collaborations that are multidisciplinary. The HWM is being developed as a repository for tracking hydrofracking data of all kinds: exposure, health effects, economic impact, regulatory, water quality, NAAQS non-attainment, geological formations, proximity of wells to aquifers, etc. The value of this tool for communication to the public regarding hydrofracking locations, procedures, and issues is high, moreover it is well-suited to use by community members engaged in citizen-science and to raise awareness within the general public. The need to educate public health and health care professionals around hydrofracking is great, and this is one tool that can contribute to improved awareness of the issues and potential interventions.