When water is redirected as a result of fracturing or cracking it interacts with the various subsurface strata with which it comes in contact. In these strata there are many compounds and sediments that may be dis- solved by the flowing water to eventually leach into the drainage lines. Many of these newly exposed minerals can react with gaseous or liquid components in their new environment to yield contaminants. These have an impact on water chemistry and aes- thetics and can increase the level of suspended solids in the water. This results in a significant reduction in the quality of the water and the aquatic habitat. Mine drainage can pollute surface water and the disposal of mining wastes will also affect water quality when contaminants leach into the surrounding surface or ground water.