The bouncing creek bed in Leroy Twp., Bradford County, PA
http://player.vimeo.com/video/43004320
*The earth is not supposed to do this!
Friday, June 29, 2012
Saturday, June 23, 2012
Recent Gas Drilling News (06-22-12 11:59PM EDT)
"Josh Fox’s New Fracking Video: The Sky is Pink:"
:" ...This week the debate over hydraulic fracturing (“fracking”) intensified in New York State after a proposal to allow fracking on a limited basis was leaked. Now, Gasland director (and Our Hero) Josh Fox has weighed in with a new 18-minute video, The Sky is Pink, addressed directly to Governor Cuomo, who has said he wants his policy decision about hydraulic fracturing to be one “based on science.” Fox gladly runs with that, and argues that “just as there is no safe cigarette, there is no safe drilling.”..." " (ecocentric Blog)- http://www.ecocentricblog.org/2012/06/22/foxs-new-fracking-video-the-sky-is-pink/ (See also "Fracking is hardly leakproof" (Josh Fox & Barbara Arrindell via Albany Times Union)- http://www.timesunion.com/opinion/article/Fracking-is-hardly-leakproof-3646458.php & "The Sky is Pink" (Josh Fox via EcoWatch)- http://ecowatch.org/2012/the-sky-is-pink/ & "VIDEO: Fox Pundits Dismiss Fracking Risks: "...Fox News pundits have repeatedly claimed that fracking poses no risk to water supplies, even though there are several documented cases where extraction of shale gas and activities related to fracking have contaminated water. Watch how their blanket denials of risk contrast with real news reports on the damage natural gas extraction has done to water supplies:..." " (Media Matter for America)- http://mediamatters.org/blog/201206210018 )
"Poll: Vast Majority of New Yorkers Want Cuomo To Wait for More Research Before Opening Empire State to Fracking: "..."Precaution Over Politics" is Common Sense Message From State Residents; Majority of Those in 5 Counties Reportedly Targeted for Fracking Also Want Science Verdict First. More than seven out of 10 New York state voters (72 percent) think that Governor Cuomo should "wait for all the necessary health and environmental studies to be completed first before opening the state to fracking," according to a major new Public Policy Polling (PPP) survey..." " (Catskill Citizens for Safe Energy) (New York)- http://catskillcitizens.org/ , http://www.istockanalyst.com/business/news/5909398/poll-vast-majority-of-new-yorkers-want-cuomo-to-wait-for-more-research-before-opening-empire-state-to-fracking , http://www.istockanalyst.com/business/news/5909398/poll-vast-majority-of-new-yorkers-want-cuomo-to-wait-for-more-research-before-opening-empire-state-to-fracking , http://www.marketwatch.com/story/poll-vast-majority-of-new-yorkers-want-cuomo-to-wait-for-more-research-before-opening-empire-state-to-fracking-2012-06-21& http://www.ibtimes.com/prnews/20120621/poll-vast-majority-of-new-yorkers-want-cuomo-to.htm
"Experts: API/ANGA Fracking "Study" Is "Fatally Flawed": "..."We have analyzed the widely publicized report from the American Petroleum Institute (API) and American Natural Gas Alliance (ANGA) which asserts that methane emissions from the natural gas sector are 50 percent lower than US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) estimates. The study relies on a critically flawed survey design, completely ignores many other recent studies, and would not have passed peer-review in a scientific journal. In contrast to this API/ANGA report, a recent and objective study which measured the entire rate of methane emissions from an unconventional gas field, the first of what should become one of many such studies, demonstrated emissions that were higher than EPA estimates.." " (Physicians Scientists & Engineers for Healthy Energy)- http://www.psehealthyenergy.org/resources/view/198916 , http://www.marketwatch.com/story/poll-vast-majority-of-new-yorkers-want-cuomo-to-wait-for-more-research-before-opening-empire-state-to-fracking-2012-06-21 & http://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/experts--apianga-fracking-study-is-fatally-flawed-159565465.html
"Methane, water spout: "...Shell Appalachia subsidiary SWEPI LP suspended operations in Union Township while they contain and investigate methane and water releases around the Guindon K 706 well pad. The Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) is also working in the area. (For multiple photos and an in-depth story, pick up the June 20 edition of the Wellsboro or Mansfield Gazette.)..." " (Photos, The Wellsboro Gazette) (Pennsylvania)-
http://www.tiogapublishing.com/news/the_wellsboro_mansfield_gazette/methane-water-spout/article_a9733e36-bb02-11e1-8204-0019bb2963f4.html
"Chesapeake to Pay $1.6 Million for Contaminating Water Wells in Bradford County: "...Chesapeake Energy has agreed to pay $1.6 million in damages to three families in Wyalusing, Bradford County. The case may be the first Marcellus contamination lawsuit to get resolved without a nondisclosure agreement, meaning the parties can speak freely about the case. Todd O’Malley, an attorney for two of the families, says the plaintiffs insisted on not signing a confidentiality agreement. “They wanted the public to know what the settlement was about,” says O’Malley..." " (StateImpact Pennsylvania)- http://stateimpact.npr.org/pennsylvania/2012/06/21/chesapeake-to-pay-1-6-million-for-contaminating-water-wells-in-bradford-county/
"As Shell Works To Stop Methane, Neighboring Farmer Worries About His Cows: "...f you go looking for evidence of Shell’s methane migration problem in Tioga County, as StateImpact did today, you won’t be able to see the 30 foot geyser of water and natural gas. First, the flow has been reduced to a few feet over the course of the last week. Second, the company has blocked off access to the site...For farmer Leo Shanlay, who lives a bit more than a mile from where the problems are occurring, evidence that something might be amiss came from his cows. Shanlay’s nine calves won’t drink any water from his drinking well. “Before, when I dumped water in, they drank it right away. Now they wait four or five hours before they drink it,” he said, standing in front of an idling tractor. The calves started losing interest in his well water on Tuesday. They’re happy to drink the water his uncle trucks in from another site, though..." " (StateImpact Pennsylvania)- http://stateimpact.npr.org/pennsylvania/2012/06/22/as-shell-works-to-stop-methane-neighboring-farmer-worries-about-his-cows/
"Pa. families settle gas drilling pollution lawsuit with Chesapeake Energy for $1.6 million: "... But Jared McMicken of Wyalusing said the agreement reached Thursday provides little comfort since his drinking water was ruined by nearby drilling, and his family must move. "We've lost our house, and we're not going to get out of it what we got into it," he said. "We have a bunch of people who have to leave their homes."..." " (Associated Press) (Pennsylvania)- http://www.dailyjournal.net/view/story/ded9783a6af44594a5acf7f627d54f8d/PA--Gas-Drilling-Pollution-Settlement/ & http://newsok.com/1.6m-settlement-in-pa.-gas-drilling-lawsuit/article/feed/396730
"Well Control Teams On The Scene In Tioga County: "...An update on Shell’s potential methane migration problem in Tioga County: company spokeswoman Kelly op de Weegh says a well control team has been called in to help. Here’s her emailed statement: We have both a groundwater protection technical team and a well control team actively working on the origin and cause of the water and methane release. As a precaution, we have suspended our well completion work on the well pads in the area. The release – from and near water wells within a hunting club – is not located on any of our well sites. We are depressurizing gas wells in the larger area in order to reduce pressure subsurface. We’re also working operations around the water wells, including excavation in a secured, control zone..." " (StateImpact Pennsylvania)- http://stateimpact.npr.org/pennsylvania/2012/06/21/well-control-teams-on-the-scene-in-tioga-county/
"DEP Investigating Potential Shell Methane Migration: "...As Governor Corbett pushes to give Royal Dutch Shell a $1.65 billion tax credit, the Department of Environmental Protection is investigating a potential methane migration problem in Union Township, Tioga County, involving the company’s natural gas drilling arm..." " (StateImpact Pennsylvania)- http://stateimpact.npr.org/pennsylvania/2012/06/21/dep-investigating-potential-methane-migration-by-shell/
"Tioga County Methane Migration: Onetime Geyser Being Brought Under Conrol: "...(Wellsboro, Tioga County) — A geyser of methane-infused water has been reduced to waist-height, as Shell Appalachia works to contain mysterious methane migration near a cluster of three of its natural gas wells in southeastern Tioga County. The geyser was shooting water more than thirty feet into the air at one point, but Tioga County Emergency Services Coordinator Denny Colegrove said it was down to less than two feet by yesterday evening. Shell is flaring off nearby wells in order to reduce underground gas pressure. “We’re seeing that brings down — it depressurzes — the gas that could be contributing to migration in the immediate area,” said Shell spokeswoman Kelly op de Weegh..." " (StateImpact Pennsylvania)- http://stateimpact.npr.org/pennsylvania/2012/06/22/tioga-county-methane-migration-onetime-geyser-being-brought-under-conrol/
"Methane migration probed in Tioga County: "...Four residents within a one-mile area had been evacuated as of Thursday. A company spokeswoman said in a statement that the current methane levels indicate "a very low hazard risk to people, vegetation and fish." Dan Spadoni, a spokesman with the Department of Environmental Protection's north-central regional office, said the agency was alerted Sunday that a drinking water well had overflowed inside a hunting cabin near the well pads in Union. Thursday afternoon, regulators had not yet determined the source of the methane, which also was suspected to be causing bubbling in a nearby stream and "additional surface expressions" along a neighboring road..." " (Pittsburgh Post-Gazette)( (Pennsylvania)- http://www.post-gazette.com/stories/local/marcellusshale/methane-migration-probed-in-tioga-county-641486/ & http://shale.sites.post-gazette.com/index.php/news/archives/24646-methane-migration-probed-in-tioga-county
"Mahanoy Township oil/natural gas drilling ordinance may need amending: "...MAHANOY CITY - Mahanoy Township may need to amend its zoning ordinance to have permitted use and special exceptions for oil and natural gas exploration, drilling and extraction to conform with new state legislation. The subject was discussed at Thursday's meeting of the Mahanoy Township Board of Supervisors by township solicitor Eric Lieberman. "The township adopted a Marcellus shale drilling ordinance a while ago in case there would be any oil and gas drilling in the area," Lieberman said. "Well, along comes the state Legislature and they adopt something called Act 13, which basically is an all-comprehensive act that deals with the oil and gas industry and how things are going to be handled from a regulation standpoint."..." " (Times-Shamrock Communications) (Pennsylvania)- http://republicanherald.com/news/mahanoy-township-oil-natural-gas-drilling-ordinance-may-need-amending-1.1333400 & http://refinerynews.com/mahanoy-township-oilnatural-gas-drilling-ordinance-may-need/
"City joins lawsuit opposing unified drilling zone: "...Connellsville City Council adopted a resolution Wednesday night to support a lawsuit opposing Act 13, which amends the Pennsylvania Oil and Gas Act to establish a unified zoning scheme across the state..." " (Trib Total Media, Inc.) (Pennsylvania)- http://triblive.com/news/fayette/2068441-74/act-council-gas-resolution-state-zoning-health-drilling-matthews-program
"Report: 3rd largest natural gas reserves on East Coast are in Bucks, Montgomery counties: "...Bucks and Montgomery counties are sitting on the 3rd largest natural gas reserves on the East Coast, according to a new report by the U.S. Geological Survey. The report now has residents and environmental activists worried what will happen should gas companies start drilling Nancy Alessi, a Nockamixon Township supervisor, said the recent report will be a magnet for drilling companies..." " (WFMZ) (Pennsylvania)- http://www.gadailynews.com/news/local/121873-report-3rd-largest-natural-gas-reserves-on-east-coast-are-in-bucks-montgomery-counties.html
"County joins study of natural gas for use in its fleets: "...Crawford County Board of Commissioners voted unanimously Thursday to spend $1,500 to join in a feasibility study on the possibility of compressed natural gas as a fuel source. That study is expected to provide an answer by about Aug. 1. “I think this is appropriate for us to see how this may impact our fueling and transportation,” said Commissioner C. Sherman Allen, noting the county has about 100 vehicles of all types in its fleet. PENNCREST School District is spearheading the effort to look into the possibility. Other organizations involved in the study are Conneaut and Crawford Central school districts, Vantage Health Care Network, Universal Well Services Inc., Crawford Area Transportation Authority, Allegheny College and National Fuel Gas..." " (Meadsville Tribune) (Pennsylvania)- http://meadvilletribune.com/local/x1047716323/County-joins-study-of-natural-gas-for-use-in-its-fleets
"Collection of realty transfer tax breaks a record in Bradford County: "...TOWANDA - As a result of the gas drilling boom, the collection of the realty transfer tax in Bradford County hit a record high for the county in 2011, the register & recorder of deeds said..." " (Times-Shamrock Communications) (Pennsylania)- http://thedailyreview.com/news/collection-of-realty-transfer-tax-breaks-a-record-in-bradford-county-1.1333299
"Natural gas boom changing demands, opportunities for land development" (Pittsburgh Business Times) (Pennsylvania)- http://www.bizjournals.com/pittsburgh/print-edition/2012/06/22/natural-gas-boom-changing-demands.html
"Montrose Hospital closing in on construction funding goals: "...Endless Mountains Health Systems received almost $200,000 from several donors Thursday, including a $100,000 contribution from Linde Corp. of Honesdale. Cabot Oil & Gas Corp. spokesman George Stark said that with the recent efforts, the $5.6 million project is nearly 90 percent funded. Cabot, based in Houston, Texas, kicked off the fundraising effort in March with a $1 million donation. It also promised to match community contributions up to $1 million, which would provide EMHS with $3 million of the $5.6 million needed to complete the physicians' clinic portion of the new hospital building project. The Cabot-EMHS fundraising effort is set to conclude by July 21, the date of the annual Cabot Picnic. In addition to Linde Corp., other contributions noted Thursday came from natural gas industry companies: Erick Flowback Services donated $30,000; Rain For Rent donated $25,000; and Weir-Seaboard donated $25,000..." " (Times-Shamrock Communications) (Pennsylvania)- http://thetimes-tribune.com/news/gas-drilling/montrose-hospital-closing-in-on-construction-funding-goals-1.1333471
(Event) "SAE International to Host Symposium that Delves into Impact of Shale Gas on Vehicle Development: "...The SAE 2012 Shale Gas Impact on Vehicle Development Symposium will focus on the impact of natural gas vehicle adoption, shale exploration and natural gas Infrastructure on bi-fuel vehicle production. Co-sponsored by SAE International and energy industry publisher Hart Energy, the event will be held August 28, 2012, at the David L. Lawrence Convention Center in Pittsburgh..." " (SAE International) (Pennsylvania)- http://www.execdigital.com/press_releases/sae-international-to-host-symposium-that-delves-into-impact-of-shale-gas-on-vehicle-development
"To drill or not to drill?: "...Gas may be important for some things, but listen to this, gasbags: Without water there is no life! Therefore, there is also no money. Get it?. The list of distortions and half-truths from the gas companies is as long as my arm. Yet they act as though they are the perfect neighbors, acting like the big, bad New York liberals are the bad guys, smearing their good names and trying to keep them from saving the country just because they’re afraid of a little dish detergent in their water..." " (Opinion, Wayne Independent) (Pennsylvania)- http://www.wayneindependent.com/opinions/columnists/x1660535224/To-drill-or-not-to-drill
"Officials OK deal for aerial images: "...WAYNESBURG – As expected, Greene County commissioners approved an agreement with a photography company to provide aerial images of the county...Photographers from the company will update the image database, and Kelley surmises they will find the county has many more gas drilling rigs than the last time the images were taken. Pictometry has been providing high-resolution images of the county for use in several county departments, including emergency management, assessment and planning. Assessors use the images to calculate property values and detect any violations of the state’s Clean and Green program for agricultural properties. Emergency dispatchers can use it when coordinating a response to a disaster, and planners can study the images to determine the best location for a new building or road..." " (Observer-Reporter) (Pennsylvania)- http://www.observer-reporter.com/or/greenecounty11/06-22-2012-County-aerials
"Federal agency that approved Spectra pipeline is running 'a rigged game,' Jersey City claims in new filing: "...Jersey City has issued a scathing, 43-page rebuttal to a federal agency’s decision to approve Spectra Energy’s natural-gas pipeline, with a top city attorney claiming the agency is biased toward energy companies and has ignored the city’s concerns about safety along the pipeline route. The Federal Energy Regulatory Commission, the agency that gave the controversial pipeline its approval on May 22, is “running a rigged game,” approving pipeline routes proposed by energy companies while ignoring “viable alternatives” suggested by other parties, the attorney writes. The document is the city’s official request for a rehearing in front of FERC, the first of only two options the city has to stop the pipeline now that it has federal approval. Houston-based Spectra wants to begin constructing the roughly 15 miles of new pipe, which will snake underneath Bayonne, Jersey City and offshore Hoboken, this summer..." " (The Jersey Journal) (New Jersey)- http://www.nj.com/hudson/index.ssf/2012/06/federal_agency_that_approved_s.html
"N.J. OKs bill banning waste from hydraulic fracturing: "...TRENTON, N.J - Lawmakers have approved legislation that bans hydraulic fracturing byproducts created in other states from entering New Jersey. The Assembly voted 56-19 for the bill Thursday...Data on the Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection website show some fracking waste has already entered New Jersey..." " (Times-Shamrock Communications) (New Jersey)- http://thetimes-tribune.com/news/gas-drilling/n-j-oks-bill-banning-waste-from-hydraulic-fracturing-1.1333364
"Jersey City mayor says natural-gas explosion in Nyack is 'perfect example' of dangers of Spectra pipeline: "...Jersey City Mayor Jerramiah Healy is pointing to a natural-gas explosion in Downtown Nyack, NY yesterday as yet another reason why Spectra Energy should not build a gas pipeline here in Hudson County. According to NBC News, no one was hurt in yesterday’s Nyack explosion, which was the result of sparks hit gas in a pipe during a gas main replacement project, according to a utility spokesman..." " (The Jersey Journal) (New Jersey)- http://www.nj.com/hudson/index.ssf/2012/06/jersey_city_says_natural-gas_e.html
"Methane near Canton under investigation: "...CANTON - Operations at a natural gas well in Union Township near here have been suspended pending the results of an investigation of a methane migration. According to Shell Appalachia spokeswoman Deb Sawyer, during routine operations on the Guindon 706 well pad in Union Township last Friday, well operators were informed that a private landowner in the area was experiencing a change in the functioning of his water well..." " (Williamsport Sun-Gazette) (Ohio)-
http://www.sungazette.com/page/content.detail/id/579881/Methane-near-Canton-under-investigation.html
"Shale Gas Boom: Hydraulic Fracturing and Potential Legal Claims: "...Plaintiffs have filed approximately forty shale-related lawsuits across the country. These lawsuits include: (1) tort lawsuits; (2) environmental lawsuits; or (3) industry lawsuits. As the shale boom accelerates more suits are anticipated..." " (RIGZONE & Mb50's "Liquid Mud" Blog)- http://www.rigzone.com/news/article.asp?hpf=1&a_id=118802 & http://mb50.wordpress.com/2012/06/22/shale-gas-boom-hydraulic-fracturing-and-potential-legal-claims/
"Howarth and Ingraffea: Gas Industry Fracking Study So Biased it is 'Almost Useless': "...Two of the largest gas industry lobbying bodies in the US, the American Petroleum Institute (API) and American Natural Gas Alliance (ANGA), released a ‘study’ earlier this month claiming methane emissions from natural gas production to be 50 percent lower than the US Environmental Protection Agency’s 2011 estimates. However, according to a joint statement prepared by professors Robert Howarth and Anthony Ingraffea and released by the Physicians Scientists & Engineers for Healthy Energy (PSE) this week, the study is nothing more than industry-purchased propaganda that does not adhere to basic standards for scientific accuracy and consistency..." " (DESMOGBLOG)- http://www.desmogblog.com/howarth-and-ingraffea-gas-industry-fracking-study-so-biased-it-almost-useless (See also "FUGITIVE EMISSIONS FROM OIL ANDNATURAL GAS ACTIVITIES"- http://www.scribd.com/doc/97945796/Fugitive-Emissions-From-Oil-and-Natural-Gas )
"Fracking with Propane Instead of Water: "...A Canadian company has found a method that uses propane instead of water. Gasfrac says the propane technique uses biodegradable chemicals and doesn’t pollute groundwater. But as The Allegheny Front’s Matt Richmond reports, others say propane fracking is risky business..." " (Audio, Living on Earth)- http://www.loe.org/shows/segments.html?programID=12-P13-00025&segmentID=3
"Gas drillers get more time to comment on U.S. fracking rules: "...The Obama administration gave U.S. natural-gas producers more time to comment on draft standards for disclosing chemicals used in hydraulic fracturing, rules an industry group has said are unnecessary. The Interior Department will add 60 days to the comment period, spokesman Adam Fetcher said today in an e-mail. Comments on the fracking-disclosure rules had been due by July 10. “To ensure that the public and key stakeholders, including industry and public-health groups, are able to provide important feedback that will help inform a final rule, Interior has decided to extend the public-comment period,” Fetcher said. “We don’t expect this extension will have an impact on the timing for a final rule later this year.” ..." " (FuelFix/Houston Chronicle)- http://fuelfix.com/blog/2012/06/22/gas-drillers-get-more-time-to-comment-on-u-s-fracking-rules/
"OSHA issues alert related to hydraulic fracturing: "...Crystalline silica is part of sand. The Occupational Safety and Health Administration and the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health say workers who regularly breathe it are at greater risk of developing silicosis. They say silica also is linked to lung cancer and tuberculosis. A hazard alert they issued Thursday describes how engineering controls, work practices, protective equipment, worker training and product substitution can protect employees..." " (Associated Press)- http://www.denverpost.com/colorado/ci_20913102/osha-issues-alert-related-hydraulic-fracturing (See also "Worker Exposure to Silica during Hydraulic Fracturing" ( National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health & Occupational Safety and Health Administration)- http://www.osha.gov/dts/hazardalerts/hydraulic_frac_hazard_alert.pdf )
"Pipeline industry opponents will use spills against it: "...Industry figures show at least 3.4 million litres of hydrocarbons have leaked from pipelines in the province every year since 2005. That is likely something that environmental groups trying to stop both projects will latch on to, suggests Doug Bloom, chairman of the Canadian Energy Pipeline Association and president of Spectra Energy. “I think any kind of incident, no matter how small, is going to be picked up by those who are going to oppose any kind of energy development, and they’ll try and use it as a rationale for not doing it,” Bloom said Thursday after attending a Chamber of Commerce luncheon..." " (The Canadian Press)- http://www.reddeeradvocate.com/news/provincial/Pipeline_industry_opponents_will_use_spill_sagainst_it_159967825.html
"NC governor inundated with pleas to veto fracking bill: "...A spokesperson for Perdue told the News & Observer of Raleigh that her office has received 7,641 emails and 2,824 phone calls since the issue began getting attention, and that they are "overwhelmingly opposed to fracking with very few supportive comments." Perdue also heard from Calvin Tillman, the former mayor of Dish, Texas, a town at the center of that state's fracking industry. Now an advocate for communities affected by fracking, Tillman visited Raleigh earlier this month to talk to state lawmakers about the serious environmental health problems the rural community north of Fort Worth has experienced. In a letter sent to Perdue this week, Tillman -- a conservative independent -- detailed concerns about the legal questions around property rights raised by the North Carolina bill. Here is the text of his letter; to view the original signed version click here..." " (Institute for Southern Studies) (North Carolina)- http://www.southernstudies.org/2012/06/nc-governor-inundated-with-pleas-to-veto-fracking-bill.html
"Explaining the Fracking Bill: "...The state Senate voted 29 to 15 Thursday to concur on Senate Bill 820, a bill that would legalize hydraulic fracturing in North Carolina...The Bill’s Path..." " (Raleigh Public Record) (North Carolina)- http://www.raleighpublicrecord.org/fracking-2/2012/06/21/explaining-fracking-bill/
"Fracking Danger: Read It Yourself: "...I am a former resident of Pennsylvania and have family and friends who live in “hotbed” areas of hydraulic fracturing. ..Many states and countries throughout the world have made fracking illegal. Why is North Carolina rushing into something that is only going to bring harm to its citizens, as well as to the animals and environment?..." " (Letter to editor, The Pilot) (North Carolina)- http://www.thepilot.com/news/2012/jun/22/fracking-danger-read-it-yourself/
"Speakers talk about fracturing: "...Oil and gas companies need to do a better job of explaining the scientific evidence that shows hydraulic fracturing doesn’t contaminate drinking water or cause earthquakes, according to speakers at Thursday’s sessions of the LSU Center for Energy Studies Gulf States Energy Retreat. Mike Brownell, director of regulatory affairs for Chesapeake Energy Corp., said part of the problem is that there are so many federal agencies — the Department of Energy, the Bureau of Land Management, the Environmental Protection Agency — taking their own individual look at the process in which water, chemicals and sand are forced into a formation to crack rock and release oil or natural gas. The same thing is going on in states, he said..." " (The Advocate) (Louisiana)- http://theadvocate.com/news/business/3159207-123/speakers-better-explanation-of-fracturing
"Council Digs Thru Drilling Permits : "...(D)uring a workshop on Tuesday, June 12, 2012, beginning at 4:00 p.m., Fairfield Mayor Roy Hill laid out his concerns regarding gas wells being considered for drilling within the City and made a comparison of two types of wells to Fairfield City Council members and attendees. According to Hill, there are two gas well permits that are being considered, one by XTO Energy, Inc. and another by Valence Operating. The XTO well would be slant drilled to a depth of 11,500 with little sour gas content. The Valence well would be drilled straight down to a depth of 13,500 where large quantities of sour gas are present...Mayor Hill indicated that the health, safety, and peace of mind of the citizens should be the main concern. Other things to consider would be future growth of the city and revenues generated by gas wells. There are already several wells within the City that contain less than 8 parts per million of sour gas. The XTO well, that was later approved during the regular City Council meeting, will contain similar levels..." " (Freestone County Times) (Texas)- http://www.freestonecountytimes.com/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=3093
:" ...This week the debate over hydraulic fracturing (“fracking”) intensified in New York State after a proposal to allow fracking on a limited basis was leaked. Now, Gasland director (and Our Hero) Josh Fox has weighed in with a new 18-minute video, The Sky is Pink, addressed directly to Governor Cuomo, who has said he wants his policy decision about hydraulic fracturing to be one “based on science.” Fox gladly runs with that, and argues that “just as there is no safe cigarette, there is no safe drilling.”..." " (ecocentric Blog)- http://www.ecocentricblog.org/2012/06/22/foxs-new-fracking-video-the-sky-is-pink/ (See also "Fracking is hardly leakproof" (Josh Fox & Barbara Arrindell via Albany Times Union)- http://www.timesunion.com/opinion/article/Fracking-is-hardly-leakproof-3646458.php & "The Sky is Pink" (Josh Fox via EcoWatch)- http://ecowatch.org/2012/the-sky-is-pink/ & "VIDEO: Fox Pundits Dismiss Fracking Risks: "...Fox News pundits have repeatedly claimed that fracking poses no risk to water supplies, even though there are several documented cases where extraction of shale gas and activities related to fracking have contaminated water. Watch how their blanket denials of risk contrast with real news reports on the damage natural gas extraction has done to water supplies:..." " (Media Matter for America)- http://mediamatters.org/blog/201206210018 )
"Poll: Vast Majority of New Yorkers Want Cuomo To Wait for More Research Before Opening Empire State to Fracking: "..."Precaution Over Politics" is Common Sense Message From State Residents; Majority of Those in 5 Counties Reportedly Targeted for Fracking Also Want Science Verdict First. More than seven out of 10 New York state voters (72 percent) think that Governor Cuomo should "wait for all the necessary health and environmental studies to be completed first before opening the state to fracking," according to a major new Public Policy Polling (PPP) survey..." " (Catskill Citizens for Safe Energy) (New York)- http://catskillcitizens.org/ , http://www.istockanalyst.com/business/news/5909398/poll-vast-majority-of-new-yorkers-want-cuomo-to-wait-for-more-research-before-opening-empire-state-to-fracking , http://www.istockanalyst.com/business/news/5909398/poll-vast-majority-of-new-yorkers-want-cuomo-to-wait-for-more-research-before-opening-empire-state-to-fracking , http://www.marketwatch.com/story/poll-vast-majority-of-new-yorkers-want-cuomo-to-wait-for-more-research-before-opening-empire-state-to-fracking-2012-06-21& http://www.ibtimes.com/prnews/20120621/poll-vast-majority-of-new-yorkers-want-cuomo-to.htm
"Experts: API/ANGA Fracking "Study" Is "Fatally Flawed": "..."We have analyzed the widely publicized report from the American Petroleum Institute (API) and American Natural Gas Alliance (ANGA) which asserts that methane emissions from the natural gas sector are 50 percent lower than US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) estimates. The study relies on a critically flawed survey design, completely ignores many other recent studies, and would not have passed peer-review in a scientific journal. In contrast to this API/ANGA report, a recent and objective study which measured the entire rate of methane emissions from an unconventional gas field, the first of what should become one of many such studies, demonstrated emissions that were higher than EPA estimates.." " (Physicians Scientists & Engineers for Healthy Energy)- http://www.psehealthyenergy.org/resources/view/198916 , http://www.marketwatch.com/story/poll-vast-majority-of-new-yorkers-want-cuomo-to-wait-for-more-research-before-opening-empire-state-to-fracking-2012-06-21 & http://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/experts--apianga-fracking-study-is-fatally-flawed-159565465.html
"Methane, water spout: "...Shell Appalachia subsidiary SWEPI LP suspended operations in Union Township while they contain and investigate methane and water releases around the Guindon K 706 well pad. The Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) is also working in the area. (For multiple photos and an in-depth story, pick up the June 20 edition of the Wellsboro or Mansfield Gazette.)..." " (Photos, The Wellsboro Gazette) (Pennsylvania)-
http://www.tiogapublishing.com/news/the_wellsboro_mansfield_gazette/methane-water-spout/article_a9733e36-bb02-11e1-8204-0019bb2963f4.html
"Chesapeake to Pay $1.6 Million for Contaminating Water Wells in Bradford County: "...Chesapeake Energy has agreed to pay $1.6 million in damages to three families in Wyalusing, Bradford County. The case may be the first Marcellus contamination lawsuit to get resolved without a nondisclosure agreement, meaning the parties can speak freely about the case. Todd O’Malley, an attorney for two of the families, says the plaintiffs insisted on not signing a confidentiality agreement. “They wanted the public to know what the settlement was about,” says O’Malley..." " (StateImpact Pennsylvania)- http://stateimpact.npr.org/pennsylvania/2012/06/21/chesapeake-to-pay-1-6-million-for-contaminating-water-wells-in-bradford-county/
"As Shell Works To Stop Methane, Neighboring Farmer Worries About His Cows: "...f you go looking for evidence of Shell’s methane migration problem in Tioga County, as StateImpact did today, you won’t be able to see the 30 foot geyser of water and natural gas. First, the flow has been reduced to a few feet over the course of the last week. Second, the company has blocked off access to the site...For farmer Leo Shanlay, who lives a bit more than a mile from where the problems are occurring, evidence that something might be amiss came from his cows. Shanlay’s nine calves won’t drink any water from his drinking well. “Before, when I dumped water in, they drank it right away. Now they wait four or five hours before they drink it,” he said, standing in front of an idling tractor. The calves started losing interest in his well water on Tuesday. They’re happy to drink the water his uncle trucks in from another site, though..." " (StateImpact Pennsylvania)- http://stateimpact.npr.org/pennsylvania/2012/06/22/as-shell-works-to-stop-methane-neighboring-farmer-worries-about-his-cows/
"Pa. families settle gas drilling pollution lawsuit with Chesapeake Energy for $1.6 million: "... But Jared McMicken of Wyalusing said the agreement reached Thursday provides little comfort since his drinking water was ruined by nearby drilling, and his family must move. "We've lost our house, and we're not going to get out of it what we got into it," he said. "We have a bunch of people who have to leave their homes."..." " (Associated Press) (Pennsylvania)- http://www.dailyjournal.net/view/story/ded9783a6af44594a5acf7f627d54f8d/PA--Gas-Drilling-Pollution-Settlement/ & http://newsok.com/1.6m-settlement-in-pa.-gas-drilling-lawsuit/article/feed/396730
"Well Control Teams On The Scene In Tioga County: "...An update on Shell’s potential methane migration problem in Tioga County: company spokeswoman Kelly op de Weegh says a well control team has been called in to help. Here’s her emailed statement: We have both a groundwater protection technical team and a well control team actively working on the origin and cause of the water and methane release. As a precaution, we have suspended our well completion work on the well pads in the area. The release – from and near water wells within a hunting club – is not located on any of our well sites. We are depressurizing gas wells in the larger area in order to reduce pressure subsurface. We’re also working operations around the water wells, including excavation in a secured, control zone..." " (StateImpact Pennsylvania)- http://stateimpact.npr.org/pennsylvania/2012/06/21/well-control-teams-on-the-scene-in-tioga-county/
"DEP Investigating Potential Shell Methane Migration: "...As Governor Corbett pushes to give Royal Dutch Shell a $1.65 billion tax credit, the Department of Environmental Protection is investigating a potential methane migration problem in Union Township, Tioga County, involving the company’s natural gas drilling arm..." " (StateImpact Pennsylvania)- http://stateimpact.npr.org/pennsylvania/2012/06/21/dep-investigating-potential-methane-migration-by-shell/
"Tioga County Methane Migration: Onetime Geyser Being Brought Under Conrol: "...(Wellsboro, Tioga County) — A geyser of methane-infused water has been reduced to waist-height, as Shell Appalachia works to contain mysterious methane migration near a cluster of three of its natural gas wells in southeastern Tioga County. The geyser was shooting water more than thirty feet into the air at one point, but Tioga County Emergency Services Coordinator Denny Colegrove said it was down to less than two feet by yesterday evening. Shell is flaring off nearby wells in order to reduce underground gas pressure. “We’re seeing that brings down — it depressurzes — the gas that could be contributing to migration in the immediate area,” said Shell spokeswoman Kelly op de Weegh..." " (StateImpact Pennsylvania)- http://stateimpact.npr.org/pennsylvania/2012/06/22/tioga-county-methane-migration-onetime-geyser-being-brought-under-conrol/
"Methane migration probed in Tioga County: "...Four residents within a one-mile area had been evacuated as of Thursday. A company spokeswoman said in a statement that the current methane levels indicate "a very low hazard risk to people, vegetation and fish." Dan Spadoni, a spokesman with the Department of Environmental Protection's north-central regional office, said the agency was alerted Sunday that a drinking water well had overflowed inside a hunting cabin near the well pads in Union. Thursday afternoon, regulators had not yet determined the source of the methane, which also was suspected to be causing bubbling in a nearby stream and "additional surface expressions" along a neighboring road..." " (Pittsburgh Post-Gazette)( (Pennsylvania)- http://www.post-gazette.com/stories/local/marcellusshale/methane-migration-probed-in-tioga-county-641486/ & http://shale.sites.post-gazette.com/index.php/news/archives/24646-methane-migration-probed-in-tioga-county
"Mahanoy Township oil/natural gas drilling ordinance may need amending: "...MAHANOY CITY - Mahanoy Township may need to amend its zoning ordinance to have permitted use and special exceptions for oil and natural gas exploration, drilling and extraction to conform with new state legislation. The subject was discussed at Thursday's meeting of the Mahanoy Township Board of Supervisors by township solicitor Eric Lieberman. "The township adopted a Marcellus shale drilling ordinance a while ago in case there would be any oil and gas drilling in the area," Lieberman said. "Well, along comes the state Legislature and they adopt something called Act 13, which basically is an all-comprehensive act that deals with the oil and gas industry and how things are going to be handled from a regulation standpoint."..." " (Times-Shamrock Communications) (Pennsylvania)- http://republicanherald.com/news/mahanoy-township-oil-natural-gas-drilling-ordinance-may-need-amending-1.1333400 & http://refinerynews.com/mahanoy-township-oilnatural-gas-drilling-ordinance-may-need/
"City joins lawsuit opposing unified drilling zone: "...Connellsville City Council adopted a resolution Wednesday night to support a lawsuit opposing Act 13, which amends the Pennsylvania Oil and Gas Act to establish a unified zoning scheme across the state..." " (Trib Total Media, Inc.) (Pennsylvania)- http://triblive.com/news/fayette/2068441-74/act-council-gas-resolution-state-zoning-health-drilling-matthews-program
"Report: 3rd largest natural gas reserves on East Coast are in Bucks, Montgomery counties: "...Bucks and Montgomery counties are sitting on the 3rd largest natural gas reserves on the East Coast, according to a new report by the U.S. Geological Survey. The report now has residents and environmental activists worried what will happen should gas companies start drilling Nancy Alessi, a Nockamixon Township supervisor, said the recent report will be a magnet for drilling companies..." " (WFMZ) (Pennsylvania)- http://www.gadailynews.com/news/local/121873-report-3rd-largest-natural-gas-reserves-on-east-coast-are-in-bucks-montgomery-counties.html
"County joins study of natural gas for use in its fleets: "...Crawford County Board of Commissioners voted unanimously Thursday to spend $1,500 to join in a feasibility study on the possibility of compressed natural gas as a fuel source. That study is expected to provide an answer by about Aug. 1. “I think this is appropriate for us to see how this may impact our fueling and transportation,” said Commissioner C. Sherman Allen, noting the county has about 100 vehicles of all types in its fleet. PENNCREST School District is spearheading the effort to look into the possibility. Other organizations involved in the study are Conneaut and Crawford Central school districts, Vantage Health Care Network, Universal Well Services Inc., Crawford Area Transportation Authority, Allegheny College and National Fuel Gas..." " (Meadsville Tribune) (Pennsylvania)- http://meadvilletribune.com/local/x1047716323/County-joins-study-of-natural-gas-for-use-in-its-fleets
"Collection of realty transfer tax breaks a record in Bradford County: "...TOWANDA - As a result of the gas drilling boom, the collection of the realty transfer tax in Bradford County hit a record high for the county in 2011, the register & recorder of deeds said..." " (Times-Shamrock Communications) (Pennsylania)- http://thedailyreview.com/news/collection-of-realty-transfer-tax-breaks-a-record-in-bradford-county-1.1333299
"Natural gas boom changing demands, opportunities for land development" (Pittsburgh Business Times) (Pennsylvania)- http://www.bizjournals.com/pittsburgh/print-edition/2012/06/22/natural-gas-boom-changing-demands.html
"Montrose Hospital closing in on construction funding goals: "...Endless Mountains Health Systems received almost $200,000 from several donors Thursday, including a $100,000 contribution from Linde Corp. of Honesdale. Cabot Oil & Gas Corp. spokesman George Stark said that with the recent efforts, the $5.6 million project is nearly 90 percent funded. Cabot, based in Houston, Texas, kicked off the fundraising effort in March with a $1 million donation. It also promised to match community contributions up to $1 million, which would provide EMHS with $3 million of the $5.6 million needed to complete the physicians' clinic portion of the new hospital building project. The Cabot-EMHS fundraising effort is set to conclude by July 21, the date of the annual Cabot Picnic. In addition to Linde Corp., other contributions noted Thursday came from natural gas industry companies: Erick Flowback Services donated $30,000; Rain For Rent donated $25,000; and Weir-Seaboard donated $25,000..." " (Times-Shamrock Communications) (Pennsylvania)- http://thetimes-tribune.com/news/gas-drilling/montrose-hospital-closing-in-on-construction-funding-goals-1.1333471
(Event) "SAE International to Host Symposium that Delves into Impact of Shale Gas on Vehicle Development: "...The SAE 2012 Shale Gas Impact on Vehicle Development Symposium will focus on the impact of natural gas vehicle adoption, shale exploration and natural gas Infrastructure on bi-fuel vehicle production. Co-sponsored by SAE International and energy industry publisher Hart Energy, the event will be held August 28, 2012, at the David L. Lawrence Convention Center in Pittsburgh..." " (SAE International) (Pennsylvania)- http://www.execdigital.com/press_releases/sae-international-to-host-symposium-that-delves-into-impact-of-shale-gas-on-vehicle-development
"To drill or not to drill?: "...Gas may be important for some things, but listen to this, gasbags: Without water there is no life! Therefore, there is also no money. Get it?. The list of distortions and half-truths from the gas companies is as long as my arm. Yet they act as though they are the perfect neighbors, acting like the big, bad New York liberals are the bad guys, smearing their good names and trying to keep them from saving the country just because they’re afraid of a little dish detergent in their water..." " (Opinion, Wayne Independent) (Pennsylvania)- http://www.wayneindependent.com/opinions/columnists/x1660535224/To-drill-or-not-to-drill
"Officials OK deal for aerial images: "...WAYNESBURG – As expected, Greene County commissioners approved an agreement with a photography company to provide aerial images of the county...Photographers from the company will update the image database, and Kelley surmises they will find the county has many more gas drilling rigs than the last time the images were taken. Pictometry has been providing high-resolution images of the county for use in several county departments, including emergency management, assessment and planning. Assessors use the images to calculate property values and detect any violations of the state’s Clean and Green program for agricultural properties. Emergency dispatchers can use it when coordinating a response to a disaster, and planners can study the images to determine the best location for a new building or road..." " (Observer-Reporter) (Pennsylvania)- http://www.observer-reporter.com/or/greenecounty11/06-22-2012-County-aerials
"Federal agency that approved Spectra pipeline is running 'a rigged game,' Jersey City claims in new filing: "...Jersey City has issued a scathing, 43-page rebuttal to a federal agency’s decision to approve Spectra Energy’s natural-gas pipeline, with a top city attorney claiming the agency is biased toward energy companies and has ignored the city’s concerns about safety along the pipeline route. The Federal Energy Regulatory Commission, the agency that gave the controversial pipeline its approval on May 22, is “running a rigged game,” approving pipeline routes proposed by energy companies while ignoring “viable alternatives” suggested by other parties, the attorney writes. The document is the city’s official request for a rehearing in front of FERC, the first of only two options the city has to stop the pipeline now that it has federal approval. Houston-based Spectra wants to begin constructing the roughly 15 miles of new pipe, which will snake underneath Bayonne, Jersey City and offshore Hoboken, this summer..." " (The Jersey Journal) (New Jersey)- http://www.nj.com/hudson/index.ssf/2012/06/federal_agency_that_approved_s.html
"N.J. OKs bill banning waste from hydraulic fracturing: "...TRENTON, N.J - Lawmakers have approved legislation that bans hydraulic fracturing byproducts created in other states from entering New Jersey. The Assembly voted 56-19 for the bill Thursday...Data on the Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection website show some fracking waste has already entered New Jersey..." " (Times-Shamrock Communications) (New Jersey)- http://thetimes-tribune.com/news/gas-drilling/n-j-oks-bill-banning-waste-from-hydraulic-fracturing-1.1333364
"Jersey City mayor says natural-gas explosion in Nyack is 'perfect example' of dangers of Spectra pipeline: "...Jersey City Mayor Jerramiah Healy is pointing to a natural-gas explosion in Downtown Nyack, NY yesterday as yet another reason why Spectra Energy should not build a gas pipeline here in Hudson County. According to NBC News, no one was hurt in yesterday’s Nyack explosion, which was the result of sparks hit gas in a pipe during a gas main replacement project, according to a utility spokesman..." " (The Jersey Journal) (New Jersey)- http://www.nj.com/hudson/index.ssf/2012/06/jersey_city_says_natural-gas_e.html
"Methane near Canton under investigation: "...CANTON - Operations at a natural gas well in Union Township near here have been suspended pending the results of an investigation of a methane migration. According to Shell Appalachia spokeswoman Deb Sawyer, during routine operations on the Guindon 706 well pad in Union Township last Friday, well operators were informed that a private landowner in the area was experiencing a change in the functioning of his water well..." " (Williamsport Sun-Gazette) (Ohio)-
http://www.sungazette.com/page/content.detail/id/579881/Methane-near-Canton-under-investigation.html
"Shale Gas Boom: Hydraulic Fracturing and Potential Legal Claims: "...Plaintiffs have filed approximately forty shale-related lawsuits across the country. These lawsuits include: (1) tort lawsuits; (2) environmental lawsuits; or (3) industry lawsuits. As the shale boom accelerates more suits are anticipated..." " (RIGZONE & Mb50's "Liquid Mud" Blog)- http://www.rigzone.com/news/article.asp?hpf=1&a_id=118802 & http://mb50.wordpress.com/2012/06/22/shale-gas-boom-hydraulic-fracturing-and-potential-legal-claims/
"Howarth and Ingraffea: Gas Industry Fracking Study So Biased it is 'Almost Useless': "...Two of the largest gas industry lobbying bodies in the US, the American Petroleum Institute (API) and American Natural Gas Alliance (ANGA), released a ‘study’ earlier this month claiming methane emissions from natural gas production to be 50 percent lower than the US Environmental Protection Agency’s 2011 estimates. However, according to a joint statement prepared by professors Robert Howarth and Anthony Ingraffea and released by the Physicians Scientists & Engineers for Healthy Energy (PSE) this week, the study is nothing more than industry-purchased propaganda that does not adhere to basic standards for scientific accuracy and consistency..." " (DESMOGBLOG)- http://www.desmogblog.com/howarth-and-ingraffea-gas-industry-fracking-study-so-biased-it-almost-useless (See also "FUGITIVE EMISSIONS FROM OIL ANDNATURAL GAS ACTIVITIES"- http://www.scribd.com/doc/97945796/Fugitive-Emissions-From-Oil-and-Natural-Gas )
"Fracking with Propane Instead of Water: "...A Canadian company has found a method that uses propane instead of water. Gasfrac says the propane technique uses biodegradable chemicals and doesn’t pollute groundwater. But as The Allegheny Front’s Matt Richmond reports, others say propane fracking is risky business..." " (Audio, Living on Earth)- http://www.loe.org/shows/segments.html?programID=12-P13-00025&segmentID=3
"Gas drillers get more time to comment on U.S. fracking rules: "...The Obama administration gave U.S. natural-gas producers more time to comment on draft standards for disclosing chemicals used in hydraulic fracturing, rules an industry group has said are unnecessary. The Interior Department will add 60 days to the comment period, spokesman Adam Fetcher said today in an e-mail. Comments on the fracking-disclosure rules had been due by July 10. “To ensure that the public and key stakeholders, including industry and public-health groups, are able to provide important feedback that will help inform a final rule, Interior has decided to extend the public-comment period,” Fetcher said. “We don’t expect this extension will have an impact on the timing for a final rule later this year.” ..." " (FuelFix/Houston Chronicle)- http://fuelfix.com/blog/2012/06/22/gas-drillers-get-more-time-to-comment-on-u-s-fracking-rules/
"OSHA issues alert related to hydraulic fracturing: "...Crystalline silica is part of sand. The Occupational Safety and Health Administration and the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health say workers who regularly breathe it are at greater risk of developing silicosis. They say silica also is linked to lung cancer and tuberculosis. A hazard alert they issued Thursday describes how engineering controls, work practices, protective equipment, worker training and product substitution can protect employees..." " (Associated Press)- http://www.denverpost.com/colorado/ci_20913102/osha-issues-alert-related-hydraulic-fracturing (See also "Worker Exposure to Silica during Hydraulic Fracturing" ( National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health & Occupational Safety and Health Administration)- http://www.osha.gov/dts/hazardalerts/hydraulic_frac_hazard_alert.pdf )
"Pipeline industry opponents will use spills against it: "...Industry figures show at least 3.4 million litres of hydrocarbons have leaked from pipelines in the province every year since 2005. That is likely something that environmental groups trying to stop both projects will latch on to, suggests Doug Bloom, chairman of the Canadian Energy Pipeline Association and president of Spectra Energy. “I think any kind of incident, no matter how small, is going to be picked up by those who are going to oppose any kind of energy development, and they’ll try and use it as a rationale for not doing it,” Bloom said Thursday after attending a Chamber of Commerce luncheon..." " (The Canadian Press)- http://www.reddeeradvocate.com/news/provincial/Pipeline_industry_opponents_will_use_spill_sagainst_it_159967825.html
"NC governor inundated with pleas to veto fracking bill: "...A spokesperson for Perdue told the News & Observer of Raleigh that her office has received 7,641 emails and 2,824 phone calls since the issue began getting attention, and that they are "overwhelmingly opposed to fracking with very few supportive comments." Perdue also heard from Calvin Tillman, the former mayor of Dish, Texas, a town at the center of that state's fracking industry. Now an advocate for communities affected by fracking, Tillman visited Raleigh earlier this month to talk to state lawmakers about the serious environmental health problems the rural community north of Fort Worth has experienced. In a letter sent to Perdue this week, Tillman -- a conservative independent -- detailed concerns about the legal questions around property rights raised by the North Carolina bill. Here is the text of his letter; to view the original signed version click here..." " (Institute for Southern Studies) (North Carolina)- http://www.southernstudies.org/2012/06/nc-governor-inundated-with-pleas-to-veto-fracking-bill.html
"Explaining the Fracking Bill: "...The state Senate voted 29 to 15 Thursday to concur on Senate Bill 820, a bill that would legalize hydraulic fracturing in North Carolina...The Bill’s Path..." " (Raleigh Public Record) (North Carolina)- http://www.raleighpublicrecord.org/fracking-2/2012/06/21/explaining-fracking-bill/
"Fracking Danger: Read It Yourself: "...I am a former resident of Pennsylvania and have family and friends who live in “hotbed” areas of hydraulic fracturing. ..Many states and countries throughout the world have made fracking illegal. Why is North Carolina rushing into something that is only going to bring harm to its citizens, as well as to the animals and environment?..." " (Letter to editor, The Pilot) (North Carolina)- http://www.thepilot.com/news/2012/jun/22/fracking-danger-read-it-yourself/
"Speakers talk about fracturing: "...Oil and gas companies need to do a better job of explaining the scientific evidence that shows hydraulic fracturing doesn’t contaminate drinking water or cause earthquakes, according to speakers at Thursday’s sessions of the LSU Center for Energy Studies Gulf States Energy Retreat. Mike Brownell, director of regulatory affairs for Chesapeake Energy Corp., said part of the problem is that there are so many federal agencies — the Department of Energy, the Bureau of Land Management, the Environmental Protection Agency — taking their own individual look at the process in which water, chemicals and sand are forced into a formation to crack rock and release oil or natural gas. The same thing is going on in states, he said..." " (The Advocate) (Louisiana)- http://theadvocate.com/news/business/3159207-123/speakers-better-explanation-of-fracturing
"Council Digs Thru Drilling Permits : "...(D)uring a workshop on Tuesday, June 12, 2012, beginning at 4:00 p.m., Fairfield Mayor Roy Hill laid out his concerns regarding gas wells being considered for drilling within the City and made a comparison of two types of wells to Fairfield City Council members and attendees. According to Hill, there are two gas well permits that are being considered, one by XTO Energy, Inc. and another by Valence Operating. The XTO well would be slant drilled to a depth of 11,500 with little sour gas content. The Valence well would be drilled straight down to a depth of 13,500 where large quantities of sour gas are present...Mayor Hill indicated that the health, safety, and peace of mind of the citizens should be the main concern. Other things to consider would be future growth of the city and revenues generated by gas wells. There are already several wells within the City that contain less than 8 parts per million of sour gas. The XTO well, that was later approved during the regular City Council meeting, will contain similar levels..." " (Freestone County Times) (Texas)- http://www.freestonecountytimes.com/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=3093
Wednesday, June 20, 2012
Conflict in the Cemetery
Conflict in the Cemetery
This is yet another example of the inexcusable behavior displayed by many 'industry representatives'. The people of Pennsylvania are emotionally and finacially invested in their chosen way of life and deserve to be treated with respect. It is bad enough that we are being marginalized and dismissed by our elected officials. To be further insulted and disrespected by the industry in unacceptable. Kudos to RB for standing up, and for all her well focused and intelligent activism.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XSca27b979o&list=UU7Eph33czawYR2ZKZrexS0Q
This is yet another example of the inexcusable behavior displayed by many 'industry representatives'. The people of Pennsylvania are emotionally and finacially invested in their chosen way of life and deserve to be treated with respect. It is bad enough that we are being marginalized and dismissed by our elected officials. To be further insulted and disrespected by the industry in unacceptable. Kudos to RB for standing up, and for all her well focused and intelligent activism.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XSca27b979o&list=UU7Eph33czawYR2ZKZrexS0Q
Tuesday, June 19, 2012
Powerful Speakers Speak Out at Don't Frack Ohio
Jamie Frederick Speaks at Don't Frack Ohio
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1B8DTbodc_w&feature=player_embedded
Bill McKibben Speaks at Don't Frack Ohio
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=e5Sy4_EqVzI&feature=relmfu
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mIIrAduvN4M&feature=relmfu
Teri Blanton Speaks at Don't Frack Ohio
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cOU97VuqHFw&feature=relmfu
Allison Davis Speaks at Don't Frack Ohio
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wgdx9hUQwGY&feature=relmfu
Warren Taylor Speaks at Don't Frack Ohio
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-LgSWBHk3XU&feature=relmfu
Josh Fox Speaks at Don't Frack Ohio
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7p3hwEj8YKs&feature=relmfu
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1B8DTbodc_w&feature=player_embedded
Bill McKibben Speaks at Don't Frack Ohio
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=e5Sy4_EqVzI&feature=relmfu
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mIIrAduvN4M&feature=relmfu
Teri Blanton Speaks at Don't Frack Ohio
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cOU97VuqHFw&feature=relmfu
Allison Davis Speaks at Don't Frack Ohio
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wgdx9hUQwGY&feature=relmfu
Warren Taylor Speaks at Don't Frack Ohio
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-LgSWBHk3XU&feature=relmfu
Josh Fox Speaks at Don't Frack Ohio
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7p3hwEj8YKs&feature=relmfu
Sunday, June 17, 2012
Finding A Better Way
Finding A Better Way
Fracking (aka, hydraulic fracturing or industrial gas drilling) is a dangerous way of getting oil and gas and a shortsighted energy strategy. It's poisoning our air and water and on its way to jeopardizing the health of millions more Americans.
We can find a better way—one that protects our health and gives us clean, safe energy sources that never run out.
http://earthjustice.org/our_work/campaigns/fracking-gone-wrong-finding-a-better-way
Fracking (aka, hydraulic fracturing or industrial gas drilling) is a dangerous way of getting oil and gas and a shortsighted energy strategy. It's poisoning our air and water and on its way to jeopardizing the health of millions more Americans.
We can find a better way—one that protects our health and gives us clean, safe energy sources that never run out.
http://earthjustice.org/our_work/campaigns/fracking-gone-wrong-finding-a-better-way
The Great Fracking Debate -- Streaming LIVE
| The Great Fracking Debate -- Streaming LIVE |
 Goldberg and Kate Hudson of Riverkeeper will debate NY Times columnist Joe Nocera and former DOE Assistant Secretary Susan Tierney. The motion: "No Fracking Way: The Natural Gas Boom Is Doing More Harm than Good." The debate will be broadcasted LIVE at earthjustice.org. Please RSVP to receive updates about this event. All times are Pacific Daylight Time (PDT)Date: Time: 6:00 PM - 7:45 PM |
http://action.earthjustice.org/site/Calendar?view=Detail&id=100541&autologin=true
Sunday, June 10, 2012
PA Nat/Gas News: Re-cap 6-3-12 to 6-9-12
“PA Municipalities v Act 13 have their DAY IN COURT”
…
Yesterday, a coalition of seven PA municipalities, a physician and the
Delaware Riverkeepers had their first day in court as they explained to a panel
of seven Commonwealth Court judges why they believe PA's Act 13 should be
declared illegal.
RDA member John Trallo of Sullivan County passes along the account from an anonymous source who was in the courtroom:
RDA member John Trallo of Sullivan County passes along the account from an anonymous source who was in the courtroom:
"DEP 'keeps you in dark' about spills, officials
say: "...Gas drilling-related companies spilled oils, gases or
chemicals about 134 times onto land and into water across Pennsylvania since
Jan. 1, 2011, but the state rarely, if ever, notified the public. By law, it
doesn't have to. Officials from a dozen Western Pennsylvania townships affected
by the spills want such notification. State Department of Environmental
Protection records obtained by the Tribune-Review show at least 27 spills from
shale drilling in 19 townships in the agency's 10-county southwestern region
during that time. Most officials the Trib contacted said they knew nothing
about the incidents..." " (Pittsburgh Tribune-Review) (Pennsylvania)- http://triblive.com/state/1944049-74/officials-dep-state-county-spills-spill-department-drilling-notify-public
“Drilling's ‘Best Practices’ Gone Bad in Leroy, PA”
…
I'm hearing that some scientific type folks descended upon Bradford County,
Rte. 414 and the surrounding countryside yesterday. I'm hearing the
super-high-tech methane detection devices that they brought
along got a meter-pegging workout. And I'm also hearing the geology dude in the
entourage was talking about a huge fracture zone that never should be
drilled/fracked and something about "going nationwide" with what was
happening to the people here.
“The Cabot Groundwater Methane Hoax” ...Cabot employees and their consultants go to great lengths to ignore the
obvious – aging well bores are a proven source of ground water contamination.
This is their paper, as it appeared in the Oil and Gas Journal (with
commentary highlighted in yellow).
Note the following:
1. They use water tests that had been done before they drilled any shale
gas wells – almost no tests done after drilling.
2. They blame thermogenic methane in groundwater entirely on naturally
occurring faults
3. They fail to even mention the most common source of mobilized methane
near gas wells – fugitive emissions from aging well bores.
http://www.scribd.com/doc/96519252/Cabot-Groundwater-Methane-Hoax
“Industrial Activity/Building Including: Open Pit Flowback
Impoundments, Compressor Stations, Well Pads in a Flood Zone” …
This is where the municipality comes in. If that area is listed or shown
in the flood insurance rate maps to be in a flood zone or especially the flow
zone of the flood zone there are issues with the National Flood Insurance
Program regulations. The DEP could get the municipality kicked out of the NFIP
like Union Dale Borough in Susquehanna county was and still is since 2003.
Why is this important? After the NFIP all private insurance ended.
So everyone that has a flood policy in that municipality would be endanger of
loosing the NFIP policy either directly with the NFIP or through the write your
own program of the NFIP. This program allows all approved companies to sell
flood insurance, but just for processing claims and the paperwork. They get a %
of the premium to do that and I think it is 8% and it is cheaper than the NFIP
costs for the same items. The force placing of flood insurance can be done,
but it would be at least 10 times more expensive.
Finding a private company that still sells flood insurance is very hard and
I have to get a company not licensed in PA to place one since no private policy
is approved other than NFIP policies in PA now, but again 10 times is the
cost, or more.
There is an ordinance that has to be passed to enter the NFIP and if the
DEP by issuing a permit that violates that ordinance, guess what. 1 to 10 days
in jail and $100 to 1000 in fines some many be per day or just once. It depends
on how the ordinance was written.
I was licensed as a Insurance Producer in 2004. (combined old agent and
broker licenses)
Look at the FIRM for the area to see if it is in a defined flood zone and
then the flow zone of the flood zone. Then Look at the ordinance for the
municipality for joining the NFIP or look at the regulations for building in a
flood zone to see if that is allowed. If it is a flow zone, notify the
municipality, DEP that a possible violation of the NFIP regulations is about to
occur that could remove the municipality from the NFIP. Then call agents in the
area to inform them or talk to them, they are all trained in this or some had it
long ago.
Bret Jennings
Councilor, Great Bend Borough
Director, Hallstead Great Bend Joint Sewer Authority.
-Here is the question we asked FEMA and the response received from a
Mitigation Directorate: CAN A TOWN BE "KICKED OUT" OF THE FLOOD PROGRAM
DUE TO NON COMPLIANCE OF FLOOD RULES MAKING PEOPLE WHO LIVE IN THAT TOWN
INELEGIBLE FOR FLOOD INSURANCE THRU NFIP? IF THAT IS POSSIBLE - WHERE DO THE
PEOPLE IN THAT TOWN GO TO PURCHASE FLOOD INSURANCE?
FEMA’s response:
Yes
If a community does not enforce their flood
related building codes and other NFIP related requirements, the community will
be notified if the potential for probation and suspension from the NFIP,
probably by their state floodplain office, and if they problems continue and are
not corrected, the community does risk those penalties. As set forth in the
federal regulations, the insurance availability is reliant upon the community’s
adoption and enforcement of these flood related codes.
The community can work with their state and FEMA to return to the program,
but the issues that they did not address that led to that suspension would need
to be corrected. Some types of problems include: allowing building in the high
risk area that do not meet elevation requirements; allowing elevated buildings
to have enclosures in the area below the elevated part, or anything which
affects the flow of flood waters; and the failure to adopt the required
flood related building codes. If a community is suspended, the NFIP
policies cannot be renewed by the agents that sell them. http://www.fema.gov/plan/prevent/floodplain/nfipkeywords/suspension.shtm.
International Agency Calls for Action on Natural Gas Safety
…
Published May 30, 2012
Forcing natural gas out of shale rock through hydraulic fracturing is
riskier than conventional gas development and requires tougher rules than those
now in place, the International Energy Agency (IEA) says
The IEA says such measures are entirely feasible, adding at most 7 percent
to the costs of drilling. And the agency says they are
necessary.
"There is a very real possibility that public opposition to
drilling for shale gas and other types of unconventional gas will halt the
unconventional gas revolution in its tracks," said IEA Executive Director Maria
van der Hoeven in a statement.
"The industry must
win public confidence by demonstrating exemplary performance."
Among the standards IEA advocates: Full, mandatory disclosure of
"fracking" chemicals, "robust rules" on well construction and design to prevent
groundwater pollution, and an aim for zero venting and minimal flaring of
methane. Methane, the major component of natural gas, is a potent greenhouse
gas.
To prepare the report, the Paris-based agency obtained input from more than
50 industry experts, environmental groups and government agencies around the
world. http://news.nationalgeographic.com/news/energy/2012/05/120530-iea-report-on-natural-gas-safety/
"Federal agencies probe Range Resources' Yeager Marcellus Shale gas
drilling site: "...Federal health and environmental agencies are
investigating whether Range Resources Inc.'s Yeager Marcellus Shale gas drilling
site in Washington County caused toxic air and groundwater pollution that
damaged the health of nearby residents. The Atlanta-based Agency for Toxic
Substances and Disease Registry said this week it has been working with the U.S.
Environmental Protection Agency since March 2011 to assess health problems
reported by residents living in a valley below Range's wastewater pond and a
drill cuttings pit at the Amwell Township site..." " (Pittsburgh Post-Gazette)
(Pennsylvania)- http://www.post-gazette.com/stories/local/marcellusshale/federal-agencies-probe-range-resources-incs-yeager-marcellus-shale-gas-drilling-site-639636/ & http://old.post-gazette.com/pg/12161/1238270-503-0.stm
"Commissioners offer separate support in gas drilling
lawsuit: "...As the Commonwealth Court concludes four days of arguments
regarding certain aspects of the Pennsylvania Oil and Gas Act, local officials
have offered support to the plaintiffs in the proceedings. Last week, Fayette
County Commissioner Vincent Zapotosky issued a letter to Robinson Township
Supervisor Chairman Brian Coppola who along with various other municipalities,
agencies and physician mounted a challenge to a section of Act 13 – the state's
oil and natural gas drilling law..." " (Herald Standard) (Pennsylvania)-
http://www.heraldstandard.com/news/local_news/commissioners-offer-separate-support-in-gas-drilling-lawsuit/article_f9b65b78-e7aa-5091-b6fd-05107303d416.html
"Fox Twp. approves gas well sites, with stipulations:
"...Recently the Fox Township Supervisors approved a request for a
conditional-use permit for EOG Resources to install three additional gas wells
in the BooneMountain area. The company's original request was to install a total
of five new gas wells; however, two of the sites must be relocated in order to
meet the township setback requirements. Their approval of the request included
the stipulation that the Fox Twp. Zoning Enforcement Officer Robin Singer be
permitted on the well sites to inspect them, without interference, to assure the
sites are meeting all township zoning requirements..." " (The Daily Press)
(Pennsylvania)- http://www.smdailypress.com/content/fox-twp-approves-gas-well-sites-stipulations
"Subsidies may grow for Shell
Oil: "...Taxpayers could be on the hook for cleaning up pollution at a
zinc smelter site in Beaver County, increasing the public price tag if Shell Oil
Co. buys the property for a new petrochemical plant. Shell, which would not have
to pay property taxes for 15 years at the Horsehead Corp. site and could qualify
for $1.7 billion in state credits, might have its environmental cleanup bills
covered by federal tax incentives, state officials said on Friday. Shell
spokeswoman Kelly op de Weegh could not be reached for comment. The news of
additional subsidies for Shell, the world's second-largest company with more
than $20 billion in profits last year, left state Sen. Daylin Leach,
D-Montgomery, "very troubled." "Wouldn't it make more sense for the company that
caused the pollution to pay for the costs of cleaning it up, rather than the
taxpayers?" asked Leach, who yesterday sent a letter to Gov. Tom Corbett
questioning the various credits the state is offering Shell and called for
public hearings on the matter..." " (Pittsburgh Tribune-Review) (Pennsylvania)-
http://triblive.com/news/1941453-74/shell-horsehead-state-property-environmental-program-tax-cleanup-corbett-credits
"Corbett: "We weren't being secret" about $1.7B nat.gas tax
credit: "...He rejected criticisms that the plan had been hatched in
secret and sprung on lawmakers at the last minute. "We weren't being secret
about it," he said. "We said we were working on a tax program. We didn't get
into the details because we didn't know them yet."..." " (The Morning Call Blog)
(Pennsylvania)- http://blogs.mcall.com/capitol_ideas/2012/06/corbett-we-werent-being-secret-about-17b-natgas-tax-credit.html
"PA may pay for cleanup of Shell refinery site:
"...HARRISBURG, Pa. (AP) — Lawmakers briefed on Gov. Tom Corbett's package of
financial incentives for a planned petrochemical refinery in western
Pennsylvania said June 6 that it could also include the cost to clean up
pollution from the zinc smelter that has operated there for decades. The
revelation by two state senators is the latest about Corbett's negotiations on
the facility with Shell Oil Co., a subsidiary of Netherlands-based oil and gas
giant Royal Dutch Shell PLC..." " (The Associated Press) (Pennsylvania)-
http://www.statejournal.com/story/18745001/pa-may-pay-for-cleanup-of-shell-refinery-site
"Tennessee Gas discusses controversial pipeline detour:
"..."While Tennessee appreciates the views of Pike County," the letter said, the
environmental assessment does not support the conclusion of loop opponents that
the existing pipeline is the only route that should be considered or approved by
FERC. "The nature of the (park) as a federal park and the obstacles to crossing
the (park) are legitimate facts that (FERC) considered in determine the overall
public interest," the letter said. Pike County commissioners held a phone
conference with NPS Northeast Region Dennis Reidenbach, Donahue's supervisor;
and representatives from U.S. Sen. Pat Toomey's office..." " (The Ponoco Record)
(Pennsylvania & New Jersey)-
http://www.poconorecord.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20120609/NEWS/206090307/-1/rss01
"Tom Corbett puts the Frackers first/At least Tom Corbett still is
beloved in one corner: "..."Gentlemen, welcome to this annual gathering
of the Natural Gas Producers of America! I think I can speak for all our
industry's leadership in saying it's a great time to be a fracker!" The chairman
continued, "We're especially honored to have a special guest at this year's
convention, a man who has set unprecedented standards for hospitality and
cooperation with our industry — the governor of Pennsylvania, Mr. Tom Corbett!"
The audience applauded enthusiastically..." " (Satire, The Morning Call)
(Pennsylvania)-
http://articles.mcall.com/2012-06-08/news/mc-bw-tom-corbett-frackers-20120608_1_tom-corbett-ice-and-water-keystone-opportunity-zone
"Theo Colborn on Gas Development and Air Pollution:
"...Dr. Colborn, a world-renowned expert on chemicals' effects on human and
environmental health, talks with KDNK's Ed Williams about the implications of
natural gas development in the Thompson Divide, Colorado's new fracking fluid
disclosure law, and more..." " (Audio, KDNK) (Colorado)-
http://www.kdnk.org/story.cfm?id=1333753575829
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)