An oil and gas company plans to expand its fracking area. The company requests a drilling permit from the local government. Before members of the local government vote to approve or deny the company’s request, they ask a team of geologists to investigate the long-term effects of fracking. The team’s findings are highlighted in the table.%0D%0A%0D%0ASphere%09Observations%09Potential Risk%0D%0ALithosphere%09Soil samples reveal high levels of salinity in addition to an excess of heavy metals like mercury and lead. %09Contaminated soil cannot support healthy plant life; limits food production. %0D%0AAtmosphere%09High levels of methane gas detected.%09Methane is a main greenhouse gas which significantly contributes to global warming.%0D%0AHydrosphere%09Millions of gallons of water is needed to frack one well. Wastewater spills and other runoff contain toxic chemicals.%09Freshwater supplies for residents will be reduced, and drinking water may be contaminated.%0D%0AWhich action will members of local government most likely take based on the information presented in the table?
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