I'm not saying that the study isn't accurate, I would like to assume that Duke operates with integrity and that their studies are above reproach.  However, Aubrey McLendon is one of the university's biggest donors.  He has donated more than$16 Million to Duke.

He is also the co-founder and CEO of Chesapeake Energy Corp, one of the biggest proponents of fracking.  Aubrey and Duke's Nicholas School for the Environment have clashed over the issue before. 

It just strikes me as odd that Duke's study, favorable to fracking, comes at a time when many have questioned whether one of their biggest donors will continue to throw money at them.  Could just be a coincidence, who knows.