A forum organized by N.C. Sen. Jim Davis, R-Franklin, will give the public a chance to learn more about shale energy rulemaking, exporation and development in North Carolina at 6 p.m. Tuesday, Sept. 2, at the Smoky Mountain Center for the Performing Arts in Franklin.

Jim Womack, former chairman of the Mining and Energy Commission, will be the featured speaker, followed by a question-and-answer panel discussion with fracking experts. 

Topics will include:

• Guidelines from the N.C. General Assembly.

• The organizing and rulemaking process of the MEC.

• Known information about shale energy deposits in the Triassic Basin.

• Potential benefits of developing shale resources.

• Myths about shale energy development, or fracking.

Following Womack’s presentation, Davis will moderate a question-and-answer session between the audience and a guest panel of experts on the N.C. shale energy program, environmental issues and related legislation. Information including peer-reviewed papers, videos, books and maps will be available for audience members to take home. 

Questions must be submitted in writing on blank index cards and will be drawn at random. No signs are allowed inside the building. 

828.524.1598.