Catskill Citizens for Safe Energy

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TABLE OF CONTENTS

The following links are provided to help our community learn more about the potential effects of natural gas drilling in the Marcellus Shale.
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Recent Releases The Economic Impact of Shale Gas Development: Can New York Learn from Texas? Economist Jannette Barth looks at the economic impact of shale gas extraction on Texas. May 5, 2012. Ron Biship response to USEPA Region 3 Press Release May 11, 2012 Our Right to Water: A People's Guide to Implementing the United Nations' Recognition of the Right to Safe Drinking Water and Sanitation in the United States Food & Water Watch, May, 2012 The No Frack Almanac Spring, 2012; 12 page issue In Fracking's Wake: New Rules are Needed to Protect Our Health and Environment from Contaminated Waste NRDC Reporty by Rebecca Hammer, NRDC, and Jeanne VanBriesen, Ph.D., PE Carnegie Mellon May 2012, 113 pages Marcellus Shale Gas Development: What Does It Mean for Pennsylvania Schools? Penn State Extension Study Posted May, 2012 Out of Sight, Out of Mind: New York’s Failure to Track or Treat Fracking Waste Endangers Public Health & the Environment Environmental Advocates of NY, May, 2012 The Health Impact Assessment of New Energy Sources: Shale Gas Extraction Environmental Health Meeting Apr 30-May 1, 2012 through Institute of Medicine of the National Academies. 23 presentations. EPA: TITLE: Permitting Guidance for Oil and Gas Hydraulic Fracturing Activities Using Diesel Fuels – Draft: Underground Injection Control Program Guidance #84 Draft posted May 4, 2012 Unearthed: The Fracking Facade A 24 minute video by Unearthed exposing a flawed claim often abused in the sales pitch for promoting shale gas development across the world: "With a history of 60 years, after nearly a million wells drilled, there are no documented cases that hydraulic fracturing ('fracking') has lead to the contamination of groundwater." Potential Contaminant Pathways from Hydraulically Fractured Shale to Aquifers by Tom Myers Abstract--Link to Article published April 17, 2012 Gas Leases in Sullivan & Delaware Counties, NY Map prepared by Open Space Institute, January 2012 Commentary: Aubrey's World by Peter Mantius Opinion column in The Leader (Corning, NY) May 2, 2012. Peter Mantius is a freelance writer who has followed Marcellus Shale gas drilling and related issues. Hydrogeologic Justification for Banning Hydraulic Fracturing throughout NYS and Delaware River Basin Testimony provided at the Senate Democratic Conference Public Hearing on Fracking Legislation in Albany on Apr 25, 2012 by Hydrogeolgic, Geologic & Hydrologic Consulting, Paul A. Rubin Oral Testimony of Paul Rubin provided at the Senate Democratic Conference Public Hearing on Fracking Legislation in Albany, New York on April 25, 2012 Hydrogeologic Justification for Banning Hydraulic Fracturing throughout New York State and the Delaware River Basin Fracking Carrots and Sticks 22 slide power point with audio by Chip Northrup on why towns do "nothing" about fracking. Fracking -The Rest of the Story Video: One hour and twenty two minutes. Bill Belitskus, Board President of the Allegheny Defense Project gave this presentation in Canastota, NY on April 17, 2012. He spoke from the unique perspective of a Pennsylvanian "whose state has jumped into shale gas drilling and fracking, feet first with eyes closed." Air Pollution Sickens Seniors By Nancy Walsh, Staff Writer, MedPage Today Published: April 21, 2012 Human Health Risk Assessment of Air Emissions from Development of Unconventional Natural Gas Resources March 19, 2012 by: Lisa M. McKenziea, Roxana Z. Wittera, Lee S. Newmana, John L. Adgatea aColorado School of Public Health, University of Colorado – Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, Colorado, USA Basttlement Mesa Health Impact Assessment--2nd Draft Document Conducted by Colorado School of Public Health--Revision1 , Feb. 2011 Battlement Mesa Health Impact Assessment March, 2011 2nd Draft of Assessment Battlement Mesa Health Impact Assessment--Closing Letter Board of County Commissioners Letter closing out HIA--June, 2011 Natural Gas: The Rest of the Story Video 24 minutes: Dr. Theo Colborn speaking at Citizens for Healthy Community Meeting April, 2012 The Energy Billionaire's Shrouded Loans Reuters 8 page article on Aubrey McClendon's $1.1 Billion loans against his stake in Cheasapeake wells. April 18, 2012 The Energy Sustainability Dilemma: Powering the Future in a Finite World A Powerpoint by J. David Hughes, Cornell University. May 2, 2012. Measuring the Impact of Coalbed Methan Wells on Property Values BBC Reasearch and Consulting paper prepared for Greystone Environmental Consultants and LaPlata County, Colorado Nov 12, 2001 Frackonomics April 24, 2012 Deborah Rogers, Jannette Barth, and Al Appleton speak at the NY Ethical Society. The speakers debunk the financial myths of shale gas and embrace a green energy future. (Four Videos 30 minutes each.)	[top]
An Introduction to Shale Gas Extraction & Hydraulic Fracturing
Investigative Reporting Buried Secrets: Gas Drilling's Environmental Threat The award winning investigative series from ProPublica. DRILLING DOWN The New York Times series by Ian Urbina and others, published from February 27, 2011 onward Link to supporting documents for the New York Times "Drilling Down" Series Conference Call between State and Federal Regulators on Marcellus Shale, 2008 Summary of an October 21, 2008 conference call between representatives of six states and the EPA as well as supporting documents re:development of the Marcellus Shale.	[top]
Essential Reading on Shale Gas Extraction Drinking Water at Risk What EPA and the Oil And Gas Industry Don't Want Us to Know About Hydraulic Fracturing. The Oil and Gas Accountability Project, 2005. Not So Fast Natural Gas Why Accelerating Risky Drilling Threatens America’s Water. By Food and Water Watch, July 2010. Hancock and the Marcellus Shale Visioning The Impacts of Gas Drilling Along the Upper Delaware. Columbia University Urban Design Lab, Spring 2009. The Fracking Truth A one-page handout from Catskill Citizens revised May 2011. Drilling Down The investigative series by Ian Urbina in the New York Times. February and March 2011. Findings on Natural Gas Production’s Consequences to Public Health and the Environment A summary of information contained in “Drilling Down” Ian Urbina. March 15, 2011. Is Fracking an Answer? To What? By Lindsey Grant, Negative Population Growth, Inc., December 2011. The Case for a Ban on Gas Fracking By Food and Water Watch, June, 2011. The Geographic Footprint A USGS Powerpoint on the geographic footprint of shale gas extraction. Spring 2012.	[top]
The Marcellus Shale Shale Gas: Focus on The Marcellus Shale Produced by the Oil & Gas Accountability Project/Earthworks, May 2008. Water Resources and Natural Gas Production from the Marcellus Shale A United States Geological Report concludes that the environmental impact of drilling in the Marcellus Shale is poorly understood. May 2009. Natural Gas Drilling in the Marcellus Shale A Congressional Research Service Report, September 2009. The Marcellus Shale: Resources for Stakeholders in the Upper Delaware Watershed Region Shale Development Best Management Practices Natural Resources Information and Assessments Natural Gas Exploration and Development Regulations The Drillers Are Coming Scientific American reports on the Marcellus gas play. By Mark Fischetti, 2010. Geology News Earth Science Current Events Geology.com articles on the Marcellus Shale. August 2010. Above the Shale An excerpt from "Half Full Water Futures in the Western Catskills", it highlights the potential impact of fracking on a "pass through" community. BY Open Space Institute/Urban Design Research Seminar, Graduate School of Architecture Planning and Preservation, Columbia University, December 1, 2011, The Marcellus Shale - America's next super giant Catskill MountainKeeper reports on the Marcellus Shale Geologist Predicts 'line of death' A scan of the article predicting that much of the Marcellus formation doesn't contain recoverable reserves. Northeast Pennsylvania Business Journal, April 2011. USGS: Assessment of Undiscovered Oil and Gas Resources of the Devonian Marcellus Shale of the Appalachian Basin Province, 2011 Fact Sheet 2011-3092 for the US Geological Survey report on amount of shale gas resources in the Marcellus Shale. Map of the "Line of Death" The blue line purports to show the eastern extent of recoverable gas in the Marcellus. Northeastern Pennsylvania Business Journal, April 11, 2011. Bucknell U: Marcellus Shale Initiative Publications Database (beta) This database lists primarily print-based publications and how to obtain them. It does NOT provide coverage of websites, blogs, news articles, newsletters, or other media. Marcellus Shale and Natural Gas Well Development Project Review from the Susquehanna River Basin Commission	[top]
Maps Maps depicting shale gas formations, the locations of gas wells,pipelines and faultlines. DEC map of the Marcellus Shale Map of Utica and Marcellus Shale Formations An interactive map of the Marcellus and Utica Shale formations posted by FracTracker. Marcellus and Utica Maps Penn State has more than a half dozen useful maps of the Marcellus and Utica Shale. Delaware River Basin Map Fault Lines in Delaware and Sullivan County Fault lines in Delaware and Sulllivan counties, overlaid with gas leases. The Open Space Institute, Decemeber 2008. Central NY Wells Gas wells and pipelines, A Google map from 2008, primarily of Madison and Chenango Counties. NE PA Gas Exploration & Central NY Wells A Google map of gas wells, pipelines and permitted pipelines from 2008. NE PA Nothern Tier Gas Exploration & Pipelines - See Susquehanna and Bradford A Google map from 2009. Oil and Gas Pipelines A industry database of with downloadable maps of interstate pipelines and LNG throughout the nation. WEB OF CRISS-CROSSED FAULTS IN NYS This map from "Basement Faults and Seismicity in the Appalachian Basin of NY" shows a web of deep basement faults that criss-cross NYS. Author Robert D. Jacobi concluded: "not only are there more faults than previously expected in NYS, but also, many of these faults are seismically active." Further, “most cultural facilities (e.g., waste disposal sites, bridges, pipelines) are not far from a potentially seismically active fault” University of Buffalo, 2002. Map provided by http://schoharievalleywatch.org Mapped Geologic Faults in New York State From the revised Draft SGEIS. September, 2011. Jacobi Seismic Fault Maps of Confirmed and Proposed Earthquake Faults Another map from "Basement faults and seismicity in the Appalachian Basin of New York State" By Robert D. Jacobi, University of Buffalo, 2002. Map of the Millennium Pipeline	[top]
Shale Gas Extraction How Fracturing Works Produced by Earthworks. February 2009. How a gas well is drilled down into the ground, and what can go wrong The purpose of this “slide show” is to illustrate how a gas (or oil) well is drilled down into the ground. Prepared by the West Virginia Surface Rights Owner's Organization. October 2007. Hydraulic Fracturing 101 An introduction to hydaulic fracturing from Earthworks. Drilling for gas: How 'fracking' works Six slides detailing the fracking process by CNN. September 13, 2010. Marcellus Shale Photos of Drilling Pads, Wast Pits, Compressor Stations and More Aerial photos of fracking, wastewater impoundments, compressor stations, and active drilling operations, as well as newly excavated drilling pads and recently completed Marcellus Shale gas wells. Hyrofracking: The Pressure To Drill In this half-hour special, NY1 examines the issues behind the controversial natural gas drilling process known as hydrofracking. (Video) December 15, 2010. Horizontal Hydrofracking of Shale Gas in New York Slide and audio presentation by James "Chip" Northrup. (Forty-two minutes) October 20, 2010. Horizontal Hydrofracking of Shale In New York A fifty-four minute presentation by former oil and gas executive James "Chip" Northrup. April 11, 2011. Dr. Anthony Ingraffea on hydrofracking the Marcellus shale (Part 1) Video, Seven minutes. March 2, 2010. Dr. Anthony Ingraffea on fracking Cornell Professr Dr. Anthony Ingraffea discusses the engineering challenges and the regulatory structure that governs hydraulic fracturing. Video of a presentation given in Pulteney, New York, February 11, 2010. Animation of Hydraulic fracturing explained by children Created by artist Brigitta Varadi in collaboration with Abbi (9) and Leah (12) Sweeney, Dr. Aidin McLoughlin and Janice Daly and uploaded 12/3/2011 Hydraulic Fracturing 101 Sept 24th, 2011 United States Geological Survey hydrologist Bill Kappel, coauthor the USGS report Marcellus Shale Water Resources and Natural Gas Production from the Marcellus Shale. Kappel addresses the mechanics of the drilling and hydrofracking in the Marcellus and Utica Shale formations in New York.	[top]
Environmental and Health Risks
General ASSAULT ON AMERICA: A Decade of Petroleum Company Disaster,Pollution, and Profit From 2000 to 2010, the oil and gas industry accounted for hundreds of deaths, explosions, fires, seeps, and spills as well as habitat and wildlife destruction in the United States. National Wildlife Foundation, 2010 Not So Fast Natural Gas Why Accelerating Risky Drilling Threatens America’s Water. A July 2010 booklet by Food & Water Watch. Fracking Hell: The True cost of America's Gas Rush US natural gas drilling boom linked to pollution and social strife. A sober and sobering report on the Marcellus Shale gas play from Britain's The Ecologist. Video, 14 minutes. December 2010. Shale Gas: A Provisional Assessment of Climate Change and Environmental Impacts By the Tyndall Center for Climate Change Research, January, 2011 Potential Impacts to Water and Air from Marcellus Shale Gas Extraction Operations A Powerpoint by Conrad Volz, DrPH, MPH,Assistant Professor, University of Pittsburgh, Graduate School of Public Health Director-Center for Healthy Environments and Communities (CHEC). Earthworks: Oil and Gas Pollution In areas where oil and gas development is prevalent, air, water and soil resources can become contaminated. By Earthworks. Chemicals in Natural Gas Operations "As natural gas production rapidly increases across the U.S., its associated pollution has reached the stage where it is contaminating essential life support systems." by The Endocrine Disruption Exchange. Chemicals Used in Hydraulic Fracturing US House of Representatives Committee on Energy & Commerce Minority Report, April, 2011. Oil and Gas Drilling and Production Chemicals, Waste and Environmental Impacts A power point presentation by Wilma Subra. June 23, 2009. Oil and Gas Drilling and Production Chemicals, Waste and Environmental Impacts Text to Dr. Subra's power point presentation. June 23, 2009 The Fossil Fuel Connection To many people, however, our work on the chemicals used during natural gas operations and our work on prenatal exposure to EDCs has seemed like a two-headed monster.. Now, we have a one-page statement that pulls it all together. From TEDX, August 25, 201. Pathways and Sources of Contamination Oil and gas chemicals enter the environment via several pathways. Published by Earthworks. Chemical and Biological Risk Assessment for Natural Gas Extraction in New York Gas extraction "poses significant chemical and biological hazards to human health and ecosystem stability." Ronald E. Bishop, Ph.D., State University of New York, College at Oneonta. (Draft.) January 21, 2011. Will Natural Gas Fuel American in the 21st Century? by J. David Hughes A report is skeptical on ability of gas drilling to meet projections. By the Post Carbon Institute, May, 2011. Will Natural Gas Fuel America in the 21st Century? Three supplemental articles: Agriculture and Natural by Michael Bomford Problems and Opportunities with Natural Gas as a Transportation Fuel by Richard Gilbert and Anthony Perl Public Health Concerns of Shale Gas By Brian S. Schwartz, MD, MS and Cindy Parker, MD, MPH Published by the Post Carbon Institute, May, 2011 Understanding Gas Drilling: Environmental and Health Risks Dr. Anthony R. Ingraffea, Professor of Engineering at Cornell University, endocrinologist Dr. Adam Law, NRDC Attorney Kate Sinding,Paul Hartman, Dir. of Goverment Relations for Chesapeake Energy. Presented by the Sullivan County legislature (Video 186 minutes.) July 15, 2010. Drilling Dysfunction: How the Failure to Oversee Drilling on Public Lands Endangers Health and the Environment "Oil and gas drilling activities on public lands may endanger drinking water." A report prepared at the request of Edward J. Markey and Rush D. Holt Report by the Democratic staff of the House Natural Resources Committee, February 12, 2012. European Parliament Study: Impacts of shale gas and shale oil extraction on the environment and on human health June 2011 Fracking The Future--How Uncoventional Gas Threatens Our Water, Health and Climate From Desmogblog.com, May 7, 2011	[top]
Health Impacts THE PREVENTION OF HEALTH RESEARCH RELATED TO UNCONVENTIONAL GAS DRILLING A Powerpoint by Bernard D. Goldstein, MD University of Pittsburgh Graduate School of Public Health, Spring 2012. Public Health Dimensions of Horizontal Hydraulic Fracturing: Knowledge, Obstacles, Tactics, and Opportunities A Report for the 11th Hour Project Prepared By: Seth B. Shonkoff, MPH University of California, Berkeley April 17, 2012* Health Effects Spreadsheet and Summary "TEDX maintains a publicly available database of the potential health effects of chemicals used during natural gas operations. The list currently contains nearly 1,000 products, but it is by no means complete." The Endocrine Disruption Exchange. Natural Gas Operations from a Public Health Perspective By Theo Colburn, Carol Kwiatkowski, Kim Schultz, and Mary Bachran. September 4, 2010 Scientific Solutions: Impacts of Gas Drilling on Human and Animal Health Michelle Bamberger and Robert E. Oswald in New Solutions, Vol. 22(1) 51-77, 2012. What happens when the doctor doesn't know? "We recognize that there is already a need to conduct epidemiological studies and to educate ourselves and the public about the best ways to keep our communities healthy." Press release from Marily J. Heine, MD, President, Pennsylvania Medical Society, February 1, 2012. Potential Exposure-Related Human Health Effects of Oil and Gas Development: A White Paper Prepared by: Roxana Witter , MD, MSPH Kaylan Stinson , MSPH Holly Sackett , MSPH Stefanie Putter , BA Gregory Kinney , MPH Daniel Teitelbaum , MD Lee Newman , MD, MA. September 15, 2008 Field Effort to Assess Chemical Exposure Risks to Oil and Gas Workers A Powerpoint by the National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences. Spring 2012. Strengthening Toxic Chemical Risk Assessments to Protect Human Health By Sarah Janssen, MD., PhD, MPH; Jennifer Sass, Ph.D; Ted Schettler, MD MPH; Gina Solomon, MD, MPH, Prepared for NRDC and SEHN, February,2012. Natural Gas Flowback: How the Texas Natural Gas Boom Affects Health and Safety By the Texas Oil & Gas Accountability Project, April, 2011. Missing from the Table: Role of the Environmental Public Health Community in Governmental Advisory Commissions Related to Marcellus Shale Drilling By Bernard D. Goldstein, Jill Kriesky,and Barbara Pavliakova in Environmental Health Perspectives, Jan 1, 2012 Taking the Handle Off the Fracking Pump: Human Rights and the Role of Public Health Inquiry in the Age of Extreme Fossil Fuel Extraction Presentation by Sandra Steingraber, Ph.D., at "Epidemiologic and Public Health Considerations of Shale Gas Production: the Missing Link" conference in Arlington, VA. January 9, 2012. Toxicosis in Sheep Following Ingestion of Natural Gas Condensate Thirty sheep died or were put down "following a 1-day accidental exposure to natural gas condensate. Despite access to potable well water, the poisoned ewes willingly consumed toxic doses of condensate that contaminated surface water." By R. ADLER, H. J. BOERMANS, J. E. MOULTON, AND D. A. MOORE, Departments of Veterinary Pathology (RA, JEM), Pharmacology & Toxicology (HJB), and Medicine (DAM), School of Veterinary Medicine, University of California-Davis, Davis, CA Transcript of Public Hearing Health Impacts of Hydraulic Fracturing Techniques NYS Assembly Standing Committee on Environmental Conservation and Health. May 26, 2011. 324 pages Health Impact of Hydraulic Fracturing Techniques Comments submitted to the NYS Assembly Committess on Health and Environmental Conservation by the Delaware Riverkeeper Network. June 6, 2011 (Attachments to this letter are filed under "Delaware River Basin Commission.) LOCAL HEALTH DEPARTMENT CONCERNS – REPORT OF ENVIRONMENTAL HEALTH RESOURCE NEEDS Prepared for the New York State High-Volume Hydraulic Fracturing Advisory Panel "When NYSDEC begins issuing permits after the SGEIS and HVHF gas drilling regulations are finalized, LHDs will need resources to support the NYSDEC regulatory program and to address any potentialpublic health issues that may arise." January 5, 2012. NYSACHO Report To High-Volume Hydraulic Fracturing Advisory Panel of New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (NYSDEC) NYSACHO urges the state to ensure that the private parties who stand to profit from gas drilling and sales will finance an expert, independent, and evidence-based study of potential public health impacts, preventive approaches to mitigate human health risks, and estimated related costs prior to lifting the moratorium on permits. January 12, 2012 Medical Professionals and Others Appeal to Governor Cuomo To order a health impact assessment of hydraulic fracturing. October 5, 2011. Appeal to Gov. Cuomo to Consider Cancer Risks Re: High Volume Hydraulic Fracturing for Natural Gas Healthcare professionals,cancer survivors and others call on Governor Cuomo to recognize the cancer threats posed by fracking. Dec 12, 2011 CWA Health Care Coordinating Council Resolution on Hydrofracking Healthcare workers call for a prohibition on fracking. December 12, 2011. Written Testimony of Conrad Daniel Volz, DrPH, MPH Before the Senate Committee on Environment and Public Works and its Subcommittee on Water and Wildlife, Joint Hearing “Natural Gas Drilling, Public Health and Environmental Impacts”, April 12, 2011	[top]
Abandoned Wells History of Oil and Gas Well Abandonment in New York by Ronald E. Bishop, Ph.D., C.H.O, Chemistry & Biochemistry Departmetn at SUNY College, Oneonta. Published by Sustainable Otsego, January 2012.	[top]
Air Contamination Air Pollution Exposure and Risk Near Unconventional Natural Gas Drill Sites: Example from Garfield County, Colorado A Powerpoint by John Adgate, PhD, MSPH, Professor and Chair Department of Environmental and Occupational Health University of Colorado, Spring 2012. Gassed! Citizen Investigation of Toxic Air Pollution from Natural Gas Development Community based monitoring of air quality. By Global Community Monitor, July 2011. Emissions from Natural Gas Production in the Barnett Shale Area and Opportunities for Cost-Effective Improvements By Al Armendariz, Ph.D. Department of Environmental and Civil Engineering, Southern Methodist University, January 26, 2009. Air Pollution Advisory: Ozone For Upper Green River Basin/Sublette County by Wyoming Department of Environmental Quality, February 27, 2008. Sublette nonattainment recommended Sublette County is closer to the illustrious distinction of being the only place in the state – indeed almost the entire intermountain west – that does not meet federal standards for ozone pollution. By Derek Farr, March 18, 2009. Letter to EPA Urging Adoption of Strongest Possible Standards to Reduce Harmful Emissions A letter to EPA Administrator Lisa Jackson re: air pollutants from natural gas extractions. Signed by the American Lung Associaton, American Public Health Associaton, American Thoracic Society, Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America, Trust for America's Health. November 30, 2011. NE PA Marcellus Shale Short-Term Ambient Air Sample Report A report from the PA DEP, Jan. 12, 2011. Misting Ponds in Washington Count, PA So-called misting ponds have long been used to elimate drilling waste by evaporation in the arid Southwest; now they're being used in Pennsylvania. Summer 2010. Uintah Basin Study Area "High ozone levels have been measured in areas with significant oil and gas development in Wyoming, Colorado, and New Mexico." Results of monitoring of air quality in 2006 and 2007.	[top]
Brine Spreading A Local Law Of The County Of Ulster, New York Known As The “Hydraulic Fracturing Brine Prohibition Act” A proposed law that would ban "brine" spreading on county roads. April 2012.	[top]
Catalogs of Contamination Incidents Fractured Communities: Case Studies of the Environmental Impacts of Industrial Gas Drilling Hundreds of case studies demonstrating that industrial gas drilling, including horizontal drilling using high-volume hydraulic fracturing. By Craig Michaels, Watershed Program Director, Riverkeeper, Inc., September 2010. Impacts and Incidents Involving High-volume Hydraulic Fracturing from across the Country An invaluable catalog of instances of comtamination linked to fracking compiled by Riverkeeper. Hydrocarbons found in 85 Jonah/Pinedale Anticline water wells by Dawn Ballou, Editor, Pinedale Online! - April, 2007 By Dawn Ballou, Editor, Pinedale Online!, April, 2007. Documents on November 2009 Spill in Clinton County, PA	[top]
Cumulative Impact Testimony on the Economic and Environmental Impacts of Hydraulic Drilling of Marcellus Shale on Philadelphia and the Surrounding Region David Velinsky, Ph.D.,Vice President for Environmental Research The Academy of Natural Sciences warns that even "safe" fracking may degrade watersheds. Testimony before the Philadelphia City Council in October, 2010.	[top]
Drilling in Our Forests An Assessment of the Potential Impacts of High Volume Hydraulic Fracturing on Forest Resources Tioga County "In a high development scenario, forest habitat would be reduced or degraded by 27,920 to 32,341 acres (14% - 16%)." A Nature Conservancy Study by Cara Lee, Brad Stratton, Rebecca Shirer and Ellen Weiss. December 19, 2011. The Allegheny Defense Projects Photo Gallery The Allegheny Defense Project documents the devastation of the forests in Pennsylvania. Oil Spill in the Allegheny National Forest Sickening. August 2008. Forests, Water and People Drinking water supply and forest lands in the Northeast and Midwest United States. A report by the United States Department of Agriculture Forest Service. June 2009 Draft Strategic Plan for State Forest Management The NYS DEC's "strategic" plan to frack our forests. (See page 227.) September 2010.	[top]
Earthquakes Earthquake Hazard Associated With Deep Well Injection The US has known underground injections causes earthquakes for more than twenty years. "Under certain circumstances, the increased pore pressure resulting from fluid injection, whether for waste disposal,secondary recovery, geothermal energy, or solution mining,can trigger earthquakes. This report discusses known cases of injection-induced seismicity and how and why earthquakes may be triggered..." A Report to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency by the US Geological Survey, 1990. Examination of Possibly Induced Seismicity from Hydraulic Fracturing in the Eola Field, Garvin County, Oklahoma	[top]
Earthquakes Earthquake Hazard Associated With Deep Well Injection The US has known underground injections causes earthquakes for more than twenty years. "Under certain circumstances, the increased pore pressure resulting from fluid injection, whether for waste disposal,secondary recovery, geothermal energy, or solution mining,can trigger earthquakes. This report discusses known cases of injection-induced seismicity and how and why earthquakes may be triggered..." A Report to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency by the US Geological Survey, 1990. Examination of Possibly Induced Seismicity from Hydraulic Fracturing in the Eola Field, Garvin County, Oklahoma	[top]
Fracking Fluid See also Wastewater, Pavilion WY and Dimock, PA. Chemicals used in Natural Gas Development and Delivery The Endocrine Disruption Exchange's pioneering work on the health effects of the hundreds of chemicals used in fracking and other stages of natural gas production. (Click on "Chemicals and Natural Gas".) The Safety of Fracturing Fluids – A Quantitative Assessment In response to a FOIL request to New York State’s Department of Environmental Conservation, the Committee to Preserve the Finger Lakes received a list of 48 toxic substances (as defined by the DEC or EPA) permitted for use to hydro-frack Marcellus Shale wells in New York State. By Steve Coffman, August 2009. Chemicals Used in Hydraulic Fracturing US House of Representatives Committee on Energy and Commerce Minority Staff, April 2011 Colorado's Chemical Injection Oil and gas companies in Colorado are injecting wells with millions of gallons of unknown fluids that contain dozens of dangerous chemicals linked to respiratory, neurological, cardiovascular, immune, and other disorders, including cancer. Chemicals Used in Fracking an Ohio Well Material Safety Data Sheets and other inforMation on the chemicals used in fracking fluid.	[top]
Gas Migration Also see "Water Contamination". Stray Natural Gas Migration Associated with Oil and Gas Wells A draft report by the PA DEP details instances of gas migration. October 28, 2009. Natural Gas Migration Problems in Western Pennsylvania By the Pittsburgh Geological Society, undated. TECHNICAL MEASURES FOR THE INVESTIGATION AND MITIGATION OF FUGITIVE METHANE HAZARDS IN AREAS OF COAL MINING Office of Surface Mining Reclamation and Enforcement Appalachian Regional Coordinating Center Pittsburgh, PA September 2001 Kenneth K.Eltschlager, Mining Engineer, OSM, Jay W. Hawkins, Hydrologist, OSM William C. Ehler, Geologist, OSM, Fred Baldassare, Hydrogeologist, PA DEP. US Department of the Interior, September, 2001.	[top]
Greenhouse Emissions Venting and leaking of methane from shale gas development: A Response to Cathles et al. Robert W. Howarth, Renee Santoro, Anthony Ingraffea accepted for Climate Change Publication Jan 10, 2012 Methane and the Greenhouse-Gas Footprint of Natural Gas from Shale Formations "The footprint for shale gas is greater than that for conventional gas or oil when viewed on any time horizon, but particularly so over 20 years. Compared to coal, the footprint of shale gas is at least 20% greater and perhaps more than twice as great on the 20-year horizon and is comparable when compared over 100 years." By Howarth, Santoro and Ingrafea. Climatic Change Letters, May 2011. Methane Emissions from Natural Gas Systems by Robert Howarth, Drew Shindell, Renee Santoro, Anthony Ingraffea, Nathan Phillips, and Amy Townsend-Small, A background paper prepared for the National Climate Assessment. February 25, 2012. Climate Impacts of Shale Gas Development Assessment of the Greenhouse Gas Footprint of Natural Gas from Shale Formations Obtained by High-Volume, Slick-Water Hydraulic Fracturing. by Robert Howarth and Anthony Ingraffea. Video, 60 minutes) April 11, 2011 Lifecycle Greenhouse Gas Emissions from Shale Gas Compared to Coal--Analysis of Two Studies by J. David Hughes of the Post Carbon Institute, July 2011 Compares Cornell study and the NETL study The Marcellus Shale: Bridge to a Clean Energy Future or a Bridget to Nowhere? Environmental, Energy and Climate Policy Considerations for Shale Gas Development in New York State Pace Environmental Law Review by Beren Argetsinger, Fall, 2011. Shale Gas in British Columbia: Risks to B.C.'s climate action objectives By Matt Horne, Pembina Institute, September 2011.	[top]
Impact on Hunting and Fishing Gas Drilling in the Marcellus Shale and Pennsylvania’s Coldwater Resources The Marcellus Shale gas boom has the potential to significantly damage Pennsylvania’s coldwater resources and trout fisheries. By PA Trout Unlimited, February 13, 2009. Unnatural Gas The East’s best trout country is facing slap-dash gas development. Published in Fly Rod & Reel. By Ted Williams, November 2009.	[top]
Infrastructure: Compressor Stations, Pipelines etc. Wiki's List of Pipelline Accidents Transcontinental Gas Pipe Line Company --Motion to Intervene before Federal Energy Regulatory Commission Filed by Sierra Club, Food & Water Watch, New Jersey Highlands Coalition and Fight the Pipe Filed January 19, 2012. Statistical Analysis of "Significant Incidents" Pipeline accidents, data from the Barnett Shale. Jerry J. Lobdill, physicist and chemical engineer, July 28, 2009 Introduction to Injection Wells The International School of Well Drilling continuing education program on injection wells. It claims 750 billion gallons of hazardous and non-hazardous waste are "safely" disposed of each year. THE EXPERIMENT The longevity of infrastructure associated with shale gas extraction. June 2011. (Video 6:28) Natural gas transmission leakage rates Background on Coal Plant Conversions to Natural Gas The major source of natural gas losses from local distribution systems is cast iron distribution pipes. Recent data on leakage rates from cast iron distribution pipelines highlights the potential variability of actual leakage rates around the world. Most of the pipes installed prior to the 1950s were cast iron.[10]	[top]
Injection Wells All fracked wells are injection wells, but the term is also used to describe wells that are used to receive drilling and fracking wastewater. Also see "Earthquakes".	[top]
Produced Water Produced water is the fluid that comes out of the ground along with the gas - it's typically rich in chlorides, bromides and toxic heavy metals - in the Marcellus it's also radioactive. The industry euphemistically calls it "brine" and prefers to dispose of it by spreading it on roads. See Brine Spreading" and "Wastewater". Information on the Quantity, Quality, and Management of Water Produced during Oil and Gas Production The US GAO reports that a 2009 study by the Argonne National Lab found that the oil and gas industry produces at least 856 billion gallons of wastewater onshore every year. "This figure may underestimate the current total volume because it is based on limited, and in some cases, incomplete data generated by the states." January 9, 2012. Produced Water Volumes and Management in the United States This 2009 report from Argonne National Laboratory found that produced water from onshore wells in the US is "probably more" than previous estimates of 588 to 756 billion gallons a year. September 2009. Radium Content of Oil and Gas Field Produced Waters in the Northern Appalachian Basin By E.L. Rowan, M.A. Engle, C.S. Kirby, and T.F. Kraemer Scientific Investigations Report 2011–5135 U.S. Published by the United States Geological Survey, August 4, 2011. Produced water from oil and gas production A power point presentation by Lisa Sumi, Oil and Gas Accountability Project, October 25, 2005 CHEMISTRY AND ORIGIN OF OIL AND GAS WELL BRINES IN WESTERN PENNSYLVANIA By P. Evan Dresel and Arthur W. Rose, Pennsylvania State University, 2010.	[top]
Radioactivity Drill cuttings and produced water form the Marcellus are high in radioactivity. Radioactivity and the Marcellus Shale Cornell Professor Peter J. Davis discusses radioactive materials found in the the Marcellus Shale. EPA Scientists Discusses Radioactivity in Waste Comments submitted in to the NYS DEC re: the Draft SGEIS. November 11, 2009. Radioactivity in Marcellus Shale This report concludes that the hazards of disposing of drilling waste has not been fully evaluated by the NYS DEC. Prepared by Marvin Resnikoff, Ph.D, May 19, 2010 Radon in Natural Gas from Marcellus Shale by Marvin Resnikoff, Jan 10, 2012 Naturally Occurring Radionuclides in the Ground Water of Southeastern Pennsylvania A report by the USGS. Undated. Radiation Problems due to Hydrofracking Dr. Marvin Resnikoff discusses threats of radiation due to hydrofracking. (Video.) Shaleshock Media, October 18,2011. Radon in Natural Gas from Marcellus Shale--Executive Summary By Marvin Resnikoff, January 10, 2012.	[top]
Scientists Weigh In A letter from the Council of Scientific Society Presidents "The development of methan from shale formations is another exmaple where policy has preceeded adequate scientific study." May 4, 2010 Hydro-fracking Needs More Scrutiny By Mario M. Nirchi, DEC Environmental Engineer (retired), Broome County Legislator for the 16th District and chairman of the Public Health and Environmental Protection Committee. August 20, 2009	[top]
Trucking and Infrastructure Damage Draft Discussion Paper Transportation Impacts of Potential Marcellus Shale Gas Development NY Department of Transportation draft memo on nature, scope and intensity of potential transportation impacts of natural gas drillling. Posted July, 2011. How Many Truckloads Does It Take? An attempt to estimate the amount of tanker truck traffic that would be generated by the development of a single high volume hydro-fracked well.(Author unknown.) Upper Delaware Scenic Byway Resolution: Heavy Industrial Use Traffic on the NYS Route 97 Upper Delaware Scenic Byway Aug 22, 2011 resolution to prohibit heavy industrial use and mining truck and mining traffic from Route 97. Frack Truck Impacts On New York Villages and Towns--Separately Fracks from Fiction Jeffrey M. Reynolds and James "Chip" Northrup Posted Jan, 2011 This set of slides analyze the impacts of truck traffic due to frackting on communities. Heavy Traffic PA's scenic Pine Creek Valley is overrun with 24 hour heavy duty truck traffic due to hydraulic fracking. Segment from the documentary Groundswell in production 00:02:46 Added on 8/7/11 Roads Damaged by Frackers Silver Creek Road, Franklin Township, Susquehanna County, PA. February 2012. (Video, 13 minutes).	[top]
Violations and Enforcement Wells drilled and enforcement actions taken A state by state chart from ProPublica. 2009.	[top]
Wastewater See also Fracking Fluid and Produced Water Report to Congress: Management of Wastes from the Exploration, Development, and Production of Crude Oil, Natural Exemption of Oil and Gas Exploration and Production Wastes from Federal Hazardous Waste Regulations Drilling waste is exempt from both federal and NYS hazardous waste laws. Contaminant Characterization of Effluent from Pennsylvania Brine Treatment Inc., Josephine Facility Being Released into Blacklick Creek, Indiana County, PA Implications for Disposal of Oil and Gas Flowback Fluids from Brine Treatment Plants by Dr. Conrad Volz, Kyle Ferrar, Drew Michanowicz, Dr. Charles Christen, Shannon Kearned, Matt Kelso, and Samanatha Malone. March 23, 2011 8 pages Chloride Concentration Gradients in Tank-Stored Hydraulic Fracturing Fluids Following flowback Pamela J. Edwards, Linda L. Tracy, William K. Wilson; USDA/Forest Service and Northern Research Station research published July, 2011. U EPA Region III tells the PA DEP its concerned about the drilling wastewater Mar 7, 2011 The PA DEP responds to the US EPA Region III The PA DEP responds to US EPA Region III concerns regarding contaminants in drilling wastewater. April 6, 2011. Pennsylvania Brine Treatment Plan Outfall 001 & Influent Permit Sampling May and June, 2008. Letter from West Virginia's DEP to Clarksburg Sanitary Board Pollutants of concern in drilling wastewater, July 23, 2009. Disposal Wells: A Solution for Marcellus Waste? A presentation by Cornell Professor Dr. Anthony Ingraffea. Ithaca, NY. May 3, 2010 NOTICE TO GAS AND OIL WELL & LPG STORAGE FLUID HAULERS A January 2009 document from the NYS DEC that outlines the state's "brine" spreading program.	[top]
Water Contamination Also see "Fracking Fluid & Produced Water", "Catalog of Contamination Incidents", "Wastewater", "Gas Migration", "Radioactivity", "Dimock, PA" and Pavilion, WY". "Drinking Water Safeguards are not Preventing Contamination from Injected Oil and Gas Wastes" A GAO report from July, 1989. Incidents where hydraulic fracturing is a suspected cause of drinking water contamination Below is a list of incidents where drinking water has been contaminated and hydraulic fracturing is a suspected cause. By NRDC's Amy Mall. December 19, 2011. Groundwater: Potential Contaminant Pathways from Hydraulically Fractured Shale to Aquifers Hydrologist Tom Myers discusses evidence that fracking could contaminate groundwater in a matter of years. 2012. The Impact of Marcellus Gas Drilling on Rural Drinking Water Supplies Study by The Center for Rural Pennsylvania by Elizabeth W. Boyer, Ph.D., Bryan R. Swistock, M.S., James Clark, M.A., Mark Madden, B.s., and Dana E. Rizzo. M.S. Oct, 2011 Methane contamination of drinking water accompanying gas-well drilling and hydraulic fracturing The peer-reviewed Duke University study that demonstrates that fracking contaminates drinking water with methane. By Stephen G. Osborn, Avner Vengosh, Nathaniel R. Warner and Robert B. Jackson. April 14, 2011. Reply to Saba and Orzechowski and Schon: Re: Methane contamination Authors of the Duke University report respond to criticism of their study by PNAS , dated Sept 13, 2011 Documenting Contamination of Private Water Supplies by Gas Well Drilling in New York State There is solid evidence that gas wells have contaminated drinking water wells in the past. However, very few systematic studies have been done, and exact numbers are hard to come by. By Stephen Penningroth, Ph.D., Executive Director, Community Science Institute. The Threat From Hydrofracking The impact of gas drilling on NYC's water. By Paul V. Rush, published by the American Water Works Association, September, 2010. Contamination of Aquifers by Overpressuring Annulus of Oil and Gas Wells, Samuel S. Harrison, May/June 1985. Evaluating Ground-Water Contamination Due to Gas Drilling Geologist Samuel S. Harrison's 1983 study of drilling related ground-water contamination in northwest Pennsylvania. Hydrology and the Marcellus Shale An analysis by hydrologist Tom Myers submitted to the NYS DEC in response to the Draft SGEIS. Decemeber 2009. Evaluation of Well Logs for Determining the Presence of Freshwater, Saltwater, and Gas above the Marcellus Shale in Chemung, Tioga, and Broome Counties, New York US Geological Survey Scientific Investigations Report 2010-5224 35 pages PHASE I HYDROGEOLOGIC CHARACTERIZATION OF THE MAMM CREEK FIELD AREA IN GARFIELD COUNTY Prepared for Board of County Commissioners, Garfield County, Colorado. March 23, 2006. Blood, Rain, and Tears: Meditation on the Destruction of Water: -- Sandra Steingraber Here is a powerful spoken-word piece (4 minutes) by Dr. Sandra Steingraber. Humans have never destroyed water before this time, and hydrofracking destroyes massive amounts of it. What affect with this have on us all? Posted by ShaleShock on 9/4/2011 Phase II Hydrogeologic Characterization of the Mamm Creek Field Area, Garfield County, Colorado A study commissioned by Garfield County show increasing levels of methane and chlorides in groundwater coincident with increased drilling. December 20, 2008. Physicians, Scientists & Engineeers for Healthy Energy letter to Governor Cuomo On water filtration systems signed by Dr. Robert Howarth and 48 other scientists. Sept 15, 2011. Review of Phase II Hydrogeologic Study Prepared for Garfield County by Geoffrey Thyne, December 20, 2008. Natural Gas Invasion of Aquifers Gas Invasion of Aquifers in Bainbridge Township, Geauga County, Ohio by the Ohio Department of Natural Resources, Division of Mineral Resources Management. By the Ohio Department of Natural Resources. September, 2008. Natural Gases in Ground Water A study conducted in Tioga County, PA. Published by the USGS and the Department of the Interior, 2007. Creation of an Artificially Produced Fracture Zone to Prevent Conaminated Groundwater Migration. By Kristen Franz Begor, Michael A. Miller and Rodney W. Sutch, 1989. Natural Gases in Ground Water Near Tioga Junction, Tioga County, North-Central PA--Occurrence and Use of Isotopes to Determine Origins, 2005 Scientific Investigations Report 2007-5085 by U.S. Geological Survey and PA DEC Posted Sept.2011 Private Water Well Reportedly Impacted by Hydrofracking... An interview with a homeowner living near Corning, NY whose water well water was contaminated with natural gas after a well was fracked near his house. Video (10 minutes) produced by Toxics Targeting. Trashing the Planet for Natural Gas: Shale Gas Devleopment Threatens Freshwater Sources By Karen Charman, undated. Shale Gas in British Columbia: Risks to B.C.'s water resources By Karen Cambpell and Matt Horne, Pembina Institute, September 2011.	[top]
Dimock, Pennsylvania Technical Justification in Support of Requiring Cabot to Immediately Resume Water Deliveries to Adversely Impacted Residents of Dimock, PA Hydroquest President Paul Rubin press release dated Dec 6, 2011. In the matter of Cabot Oil & Gas Corporation The state of Pennsylvania settles with the driller who destroyed home water wells in a small Pennsylvania town NOTICE OF VIOLATION PA DEP's letter to Cabot re: its "Gas Migration Investigation", February 27,2009. Notice of Violation April 8, 2010 For Cabot's spill number four! Drilling in Dimock Photographer Rober Barnett documents shale gas extraction in Dimock RNN Fracking Debate: Dimock Speaks, Hydrofracking and Health Effects Dimock, PA is a town so divided over gas drilling, the two sides describe it as a civil war. Produced by RNN, February 14, 2012. (Video, 14 minutes.) Cabot Oil and Gas Letter to EPA Re: Testing Water Wells in Dimock, PA Janueary 26, 2012. ENOUGH, ALREADY The scurrilous ad that attempted to generate opposition to the water main that will be built to supply Dimock residents with uncontaminated water. The ad falsely suggests that taxpayers, not Cabot, will have to pay for the construction. Is Dimock's Water Safe to Drink? On March 15th 2012 families affected by fracking in Dimock got test results back from the EPA proving their water was contaminated. The EPA simultaneously put out a statement saying the water didn't pose a health threat. Why did the EPA contradict it's own findings? Video 3:43.) Marcellus Shale Reality Tour Part 2 - Dimock Day Trip A video by Scott Cannon On January 10, 2012, I drove to Dimock Pennsylvania to find out what's going on with the DEP and the EPA's investigation on the water well contamination alleged by Cabot Oil & Gas. 10 Minute video Marcellus Shale Reality Tour Part 3 EPA comes to Dimock Scott Cannon for CNN, February 2012.	[top]
DISH, Texas Health Survey Results of Current and Former DISH/Clark, Texas Residents EARTHWORKS’ Oil and Gas Accountability Project reports on the health problems of residents of a a small town with with extensive natural gas infrastructure. New technology finds huge methane plumes around shale gas drilling and processing facilities Yesterday a team of environmental scientists presented findings from a novel two day emissions gas detection project showing methane levels as much as 20 times above normal background levels in the air around several counties in the greater Dallas-Fort Worth Metroplex. In D-FW, 'sobering' asthma numbers Asthma rates soar in the heart of the Barnett Shale. A Star-Telegram article, January 15, 2010. DISH Mayor Calvin Tillman's PowerPoint Presentation (PPTX file) Available in two additional formats: PowerPoint Show format PDF format DISH Mayor Calvin Tillman Answers His Critics The gas industry confronts the Mayor questions and the Mayor sets the record straight.	[top]
Le Roy, NY Toxic Spill Routinely Unreported by the DEC The toxic spills on the athletic fields in Le Roy were not reported by the DEC. An oversight? No business as usual. Well Inspection Report, Fee 6 Well "Brine is leaking... trees next to site are dead. Appears brine may have percolated through pad to roots of trees." "No fines will be issued." July 13, 2011. An Open Letter to a Member of the NYS Assembly who voted to preserve the oil and gas industry's legal loophole for hazardous waste An edited version of our letter.	[top]
Pavilion, WY Investigation of Ground Contamination near Pavillion, Wyoming In a draft report the EPA describes the water wells contaminated with chemicals found in fracking fluid. December 2011	[top]
Water Testing and Best Management Practices
Best Management Practices What the oil and gas industry could do to protect the public. The Oil and Gas Accountability Project Best Practices Includes alternatives for use during the drilling and completion phase as well as suggestions for minimizing impact during production phase. Drill-Right Texas Best Oil & Gas Development Practices for Texas In the struggle to meet our energy demands, we need to balance the interests of the oil and gas industry and mineral owners with the rights of landowners, and the rights of Texans to have clean air and water. Earthworks Oil and Gas Accountability Project, March 2010. Intermountain Oil and Gas BMP Project The Natural Resources Law Center website. Santa Fe County This New Mexico county has drafted some of the most progressive gas regulations in the United States. Operators Handbook for Nonfederal Oil and Gas Development in Units of the National Park System The National Park Service has developed this handbook to help oil and gas operatorswork safely on federal lands.( See the NPS regulations at 36 C.F.R. Part 9 Subpart B, and "§ 9.32) . This file is a 13MB PDF file. Department of Interior Forum Examines Best Practices for Hydraulic Fracturing November 2010. (Video, 2 hours 22 minutes.) Federal Oil and Gas Leases: Opportunities Exist to Capture Vented and Flared Natural Gas, Which Would Increase Royalty Payments and Reduce Greenhouse Gases Oct 29, 2010 The Department of the Interior (Interior) leases public lands for oil and natural gas development, which generated about $9 billion in royalties in 2009. Some gas produced on these leases cannot be easily captured and is released (vented) directly to the atmosphere or is burned (flared). This vented and flared gas represents potential lost royalties for Interior and contributes to greenhouse gas emissions.	[top]
Water Testing See also "Water Contamination". Private Water Well Testing The NYS DEC Draft SGEIS proposes private water well testing. A Water Testing Protocol This protocol developed by the Northern Wayne Property Owner's Association is subject ot revisision as more data becomes available. Private Water Well Testing in Areas Impacted by Marcellus Shale Gas Drilling Well owners are stgrongly encouraged to evaluate their water on a regular basis in order to document impacts of gas development on drinking water. NYS Water Research Institute, 2010. General Guidance Document on Well Water Monitoring In Advance of High Volume Horizontal Hydrofracturing Advice from the Otsego Soil & Water Conservation District, 2010. Gas Well Drilling and Your Private Water Supply By Penn State,revised March 2, 2010.	[top]
Sesimic Testing Limited License for Seismic Testing A model lease prepared by the Chenango County Farm Bureau.	[top]
The Economics of Shale Gas Extraction
Economic Impact New York State Oil, Gas and Mineral Resources 2009 The DEC's Annual Report shows that New York State's 10,029 existing oil and gas wells produced around $6.2 million in revenues for local governments - that's less than $600 per well! (See page 9.) A COMPREHENSIVE ECONOMIC IMPACT ANALYSIS OF NATURAL GAS EXTRACTION IN THE MARCELLUS SHALE By Susan Christopherson and Ned Rightor, May 2011. The Economic Consequences of Marcellus Shale Gas Extraction: Key Issues By Christopherson, Rightor, Kay, Riha, Rahm, Rumback, Jacquet, Wilson, Morken, Cornell University Dept of City and Regional Planning. (20 pages) Sept 8, 2011. Brief Statement on the Economic Impact of Gas Drilling in the Marcellus Shale By Jannette M. Barth, Ph.D. (Updated August 18, 2011) Unanswered Questions About The Economic Impact of Gas Drilling In the Marcellus Shale: Don’t Jump to Conclusions The economic impact of drilling in several states does not support the conclusion that shale gas extraction will benefit New York State. Prepared by: Jannette M. Barth, Ph.D., JM Barth & Associates, Inc. March 2010. Preliminary Comments and Questions regarding the Economic Assessment Report for the Revised Draft SGEIS on the Oil, Gas and Solution Mining Regulatory Testimony by economist Jannette Barth, Ph.D. b=fore the NYS Assembly Environmental Conservation Committee. September 9, 2011. Economic Impact and the Draft SGEIS Economist Jannette Barth, Phd. faults the analysis of economic impact in the Draft SGEIS. Economists Concerned About Economic Impact on NYS of Shale Gas Exploration, Drilling, Production and Transmission Dr. Jannette M. Barth, Ph.D., Dr. Edward C. Kokkelenberg, Ph.D., Dr. Timothy Mount, Ph.D. letter to Gov Cuomo dated 12/14/2011 Fossil Fuel Extraction as a County Economic Development Strategy: Are Energy-focusing Counties Benefiting? Headwaters Economics, an independent, nonprofit research group, takes a hard look at the economic impact of gas drilling. September 2008. Marcellus Shale Gas Development: What Does It Mean for Pennsylvania Schools? Marcellus Education Fact Sheet from Penn State University, 2012. North American Shale Gas Plays: More Unanswered Questions By Jannette M. Barth, Ph.D., January 17, 2011. The Economic Value of Shale Natural Gas in Ohio "Even with a significant conversion of vehicles ton atural gas, the energy sector as a whole has an employment share that is simply too small to significantly impact... unemployment rates. Department of Agricultural, Environmental and Development Economics, Ohio State University. By Amanda L. Weinstein and Mark D. Partridge, December, 2011 Extracting the Facts: An Investor Guide to Disclosing Risks from Hydraulic Fracturing Operations Investor Environmental Health Network, Interfaith Center on Corporate Responsibility, February 2012. Exposing the Oil and Gas Industry's False Jobs Promise for Shale Gas Development How methodological Flaws Grossly Exaggerate Jobs Projections by Food & Water Watch,November 2011. Drilling Deeper into Job Claims--The Actual Contribution of Marcellus Shale to PA Job Growth Job creation in Pennsylvania by shale gas extractionhas been wildly overstated. By Stephen Herzenberg, Keystone Research Center, June 20, 2011. Profits and Pink Slips: How Big Oil and Gas companies Are Not Creating U.S. Jobs or Paying Their Fair Share From Natural Resources Committee Democrats, Sept 8, 2011. Pipe Dreams? Jobs Gained, Jobs Lost by the Construction of Keystone XL By Global Labor Institute, Cornell University, September 2011. Impacts of Energy in Colorado "Energy development in Colorado demands massive new investment by local government in services and infrastructure. Current state and local tax policies are not providing sufficient revenue to meet growing demands." A 2008 report by the independent Headwaters Economics. Wyoming Boomtowns: Local Government Impacts & Natural Gas Drilling A 2008 Penn State power point that looks at the three stages of natural gas development. Booms and Busts: The Impact of West Virginia's Energy Economy July 2011 Produced by West Virginia Center on Budget & Policy Exposing the Oil and Gas Industry's False Jobs Promise for Shale Gas Development--How Methodological Flaws Grossly Exaggerate Jobs Projections Food & Water Watch Report Nov. 2011 NY Frackonomics--Separating Fracks from Fiction--James Audio and slide show by James "Chip" Northrup. Shale Promises? Or Shale Spin? The Economics Behind Fracking A presentation by Deborah Rogers. Binghamton, NY, January 19, 2012. (Video 52 minutes.) The Economic Impact of Gas Drilling in the Marcellus Shale Economist Jannette Barth,Ph.D June 3, 2011, Newfield, NY. (Video,45 minutes) How Should We Think About the Economic Consequences of Shale Gas Drilling? by Dr. Susan Christopherson at the University of Pittsburgh. November 19, 2010. (Video, 37 minutes.) Marcelus shale Gas Driling: What Does it Mean for Economc Development? Dr. Susan Christopherson's Powerpoint presentation that accompaned her report on preliminary findings. November 2010. The Economic Impact of Shale Gas Extraction A panel discussions featuring Jannette Barth, economist; Anthony J. Ventello, Exec. Dir of Progress Authority of Bradford and Susquehanna Counties; Jeffrey Jacquet, Ph.D. candidate in the Dept, of Natural Resources at Cornell; Craig Sautner, resident of Dimock, PA. August 19, 2010. (Video,140 minutes). HANDOUT: Balance Sheet for NYS: What is NYS's Net Equity from Shale Gas Development? Jannette M. Barth, Ph.D., Jan 4, 2012 Hiring Practices You Hired WHO? Smart Growth Strategies for Natural Gas Employers Among the topics covered in this power point the law firm of Steptoe & Johnson, "Union Avoidance"! Impact on Other Economic Sectors Natural Gas Drilling in the Marcellus Shale: Potential Impacts on the Tourism Economy of the Southern Tier Prepared for the Southern Tier Central Regional Planning and Development Board by Andrew Rumbach, Cornell University. July, 2011 PA Dairy Farms and Marcellus Shale, 2007-2010 Penn State Cooperative Extension, March 2012. Socioeconomic Value of the Delaware River Basin in Delaware, New Jersey, New York, and Pennsylvania The Delaware River Baisin, an economic engine for over 400 years. May 25, 2011 by Gerald J. Kauffman, U. of Delaware 88 pages Socioeconomic Value of the Delaware River Basin in Delaware, NJ, NJ and PA Exec Summary Gerald J. Kauffman, U of Delaware May 25, 2011 Real Estate, Insurance & Mortgages Homeowners and Gas Drilling Leases: Boon or Bust? by Elisabeth N. Radow NYSBA Journal Nov/Dec 2011 21 pages Reprinted with permission from: New York State Bar Association Journal, November/December 2011, Vol. 83, No. 9, published by the New York State Bar Assoc., One Elk St., Albany, NY 12207 Impact on Housing in Appalachian Pennsylvania as a Result of Marcellus Shale The purpose of the proposed research is to evaluate the impact of Marcellus Shale on housing, specifically, to evaluate the changes in the cost and stock of single family home, new construction, low income, and rental rates. The Institute for Public Policy and Economic Development, November 2011. Hazards & Nuisances: Operating & Abandoned Oil and Gas Wells, Tanks & Pressure Lines "...no dwelling may be located closer than 300 feet from an active or planned drilling site or 75 feet from an operating well; this applies to the site boundary, not to the actual well location." FEMA: National Flood Insurance Program--Interim Tehcnical Guidance on Drilling Oil and Gas Wells in Special Flood Hazard Areas Minimum drilling requirements for a permit to drill in Special Flood Hazard Areas. Gas and Oil Leases Impact on Residential Lending By Greg May, Tompkins Trust Company, March 24, 2011. The Next Asbestos: Five emerging risks that could shift the liability landscape Posted June 29,2011, DELETED July 7, 2011 per request. COLLATERAL DAMAGE IN THE MARCELLUS SHALE REGION: THE DESTRUCTIVE IMPACT OF FRACK POLLUTION AND DEFECTIVE GAS LEASES ON PROPERTY VALUATIONS ANDTAXPAYER GUARANTEED MORTGAGES Sierra Club Atlantic Chapter March 15, 2012 Liability Insurance and Gas Wells Insurance professional Pat Shearer warns that homeowners may not be able to get liability insurance if they live near a gas well. Other Economic Sectors The Economic Impact of Tourism for New York Calendar 2010 published by the Oxford Economics Company. The Economic Impact of Tourism in New York -- Catskills 2010 Calendar Year, published by the Oxford Economics Company. The Economic Impact of Tourism in New York Central NY Focus 2010 Calendar Year Report for Central NY by Oxford Economics Co. The Economic Impact of Tourism in New York --Chautauqua-Allegheny Focus 2010 Calendar Year Report for Chautauqua-Allegheny by Oxford Economics Company. The Economic Impact of Tourism in New York -- Finger Lakes Focus 2010 Calendar Year report on the Finger Lakes from Oxford Economics Company. the Economic Impact of Tourism in New York -- Greater Niagara Focus 2010 Calendar Year report for Greater Niagara by Oxford Economics Company. The Economic Impact of Tourism in New York -- Hudson Valley 2010 Calendar Year Report for Hudson Valley by Oxford Economics Company. Ground Up: Cultivating Sustainable Agriculture in the Catskill Region Columbia University Urban Design Research Seminar, Spring 2010. Hydraulic fracturing a danger to water, food, farmland: Canada's National Farmers Union calls for a moratorium on fracking. February 23, 2012 Why the Water Industry is Promoting Shale Gas Development Dec., 2011 Food & Water Watch 5 pages	[top]
Perverse Incentives - How the Federal Government Subsidizes Destructive Shale Gas Extraction Perverse Incentives The Untold Story of Federal Subsidies to Fossil Fuels. A Powerpoint presentation by Robert Rejeski, Director, Program in Science and Innovation, Environmental Law Institute, Woodrow Wilson International Institue for Scholars. September 18, 2009.	[top]
LNG Exports North American LNG Import/Export Terminals Proposed/Potential Eight LNG export terminals on are the drawing boards. From the Office of Energy Projects, as of April 26, 2012. Effect of Increased Natural Gas Exports on Domestic Energy Markets as requested by the Office of Fossil Energy This report responds to an August 2011 request from the Department of Energy’s Office of Fossil Energy (DOE/FE) for an analysis of “the impact of increased domestic natural gas demand, as exports.” Appendix A provides a copy of the DOE/FE request letter. Specifically, DOE/FE asked the U.S. Energy Information Administration (EIA) to assess how specified scenarios of increased natural gas exports could affect domestic energy markets, focusing on consumption, production, and prices. Release date: January 19, 2012 Drill Here, Sell There, Pay More, The Painful Price of Exporting Natural Gas The United States faces a critical decision about whether to export natural gas following the rapid expansion of domestic production in recent years. The Department of Energy has already approved one export application and is currently considering eight others. If these applications are approved and the companies export at full capacity, the United States could soon be exporting more than 20 percent of current consumption. The Energy Information Administration has estimated that exporting even less natural gas than what is currently under consideration could raise domestic prices 24 to 54 percent, which would substantially increase energy bills for American consumers and could potentially have catastrophic impacts on U.S. manufacturing.	[top]
Gas Bubble:The Economics of Shale Gas Extraction Shale Gas Shenanigans Analyst David Cohen likens shale gas plays to the housing bubble. March 31, 2010. Shale Gas—Abundance or Mirage? Why the Marcellus shale will disappoint expectations. Analyst Arthur E. Berman warns investors that shale plays are "marginally commercial at best." This is his power point presentation from October 8, 2010 (for more on this topic search "Arthur Berman" in our Newsroom.) Industry analyst Deborah Rogers Financial analyst Deborah Rogers has served on the Advisory Council for the Federal Reserve Bank of Dallas since 2008. Nov 20, 2011. (Video 36 minutes.) Marcellus Shale Exposed Deborah Rogers Speech March 17, 2012,Bethlehem, PA.(Video 30 minutes). Natural Gas Boom Not Worth Costs and Risks, Study Warns Utility-funded report warns of environmental risks of 'fracking' and $700 billion cost of switching from coal to gas. By Stacy Feldman Jul 11, 2010 Drilling Doublespeak: Gas Drillers Disclose Risks to Shareholders -- But Not to Landowners Dusty Horwitt, J.D. Environmental Working Group Dec., 2011 Effect of Inceased Natural Gas Exports on Domestic Energy Markets US Energy Information Administration, January 2012.	[top]
Industry-Funded Studies The economic impact of shale gas extractions: A review of existing studies by Thomas C. Kinnaman in Ecological Economics April, 2011 The Truth About Those Industry-funded Studies Economist Jannette Barth, Ph. D., takes a hard look at the industry-funded studies that extol the economic benefits of gas drilling. March 2011. Critique of PPI Study on Shale Gas Job Creation by Jannette M. Barth, Ph.D. January 2, 2012. A Critique of the Flawed Economic Study Cited by the NYS DEC Economist Jannette Barth critiques “Potential Economic and Fiscal Impacts from Natural Gas Production in Broome County, New York”, the flawed study cited by the NYS DEC in the Draft SGEIS. July 31, 2009. The Economic and Employment Contributions of Shale Gas in the United States Prepared for AMERICA'S NATURAL GAS ALLIANCE, IHS Global Insight (USA) Inc., December 2011. Comments on IHS Global Insight's study, Jannette M. Barth, Ph.D., January 27, 2012, An Emerging Giant: Prospects and Economic Impacts of Developing the Marcellus Shale Natural Gas Play An industry funded study paints a rosy view of economic impact. Penn State Department of Energy and Mineral Engineering, August 2009. How Could President Obama Have Been So Wrong? Economist Jannette Barth Thinks She Knows the Answer Press Release from Catskill Citizens for Safe Energy -- Feb 6, 2012 announcing Barth's analysis of IHS Report.	[top]
Industry Lobbying Expenditures Deep Drilling, Deep Pockets in Congress Common Cause report dated Nov. 10, 2011 by James Browning & Alex Kaplan Deep Drilling, Deep Pockets Part II--Lobbying Expenditures Oil & gas lobbying in Albany. By Common Cause/NY, April 2011. Deep Drilling, Deep Pockets Part III: : Expenditures of the Natural Gas Industry in NY to Influence Public Policy, Campaign Contributions By Common Cause/NY, January, 2012. Deep Drilling, Deep Pockets 2010 By Common Cause, June 10, 2010. An Analysis of 10 Research Collaboration Contracts Between Leading Energy Companies and Major U.S. Universities The world’s largest oil companies are showing surprising interest in financing alternative energy research at U.S. universities. Over the past decade, five of the world’s top 10 oil companies—ExxonMobil Corp., Chevron Corp., BP PLC, Royal Dutch Shell Group, and ConocoPhillips Co.—and other large traditional energy companies with a direct commercial stake in future energy markets have forged dozens of multi-year, multi-million-dollar alliances with top U.S. universities and scientists to carry out energy-related research. Much of this funding by “Big Oil” is being used for research into new sources of alternative energy and renewable energy, mostly biofuels.	[top]
New York's Revised Draft SGEIS
The Draft & other DEC Docs Revised Draft SGEIS On The Oil, Gas and Solution Mining Regulatory Program The DEC webpage that links to the Draft, the proposed regulations and supplementary materials. NY DEC SGEIS Information Requests and Industry Responses Prepared by All Consulting for the NYS DEC, 376 pages. September 16, 2010 Primary and Principal Aquifer Determinations A memo that clarifies the meaning of the terms "primary water supply aquifer" and "principal aquifer". NYS DEC memo, Oct, 23, 1990, New Recommendations Issued in Hydraulic Fracturing Review The NYS DEC's press release announcing the release of the revised draft SGEIS on July 8. Thursday, June 30, 2011	[top]
Comments Catskill Citizens Calls for an Extended Public Comment Period Economist Jannette Barth, Ph.D. calls on the DEC to extend the public comment period on the Draft SGEIS so New Yorkers have an opportunity to review the revised socioeconmic study that is now underway. EPA Region 2 Comment on Draft Revised SGEIS Cover Letter Jan 11, 2012 EPA Region 2 Comments on Revised Draft SGEIS for Horizontal Drilling and High-Volume Fracturing to Develop the Marcellus Shale and Other Low-Permeability Gas Reserves Jan 11, 2012 Stephanie Low Presents Statement of DEC Employee to the NY DEC Hearings on Hydrofracking 3 minute video Posted Dec 3, 2011. This is a highlight from the NY DEC hearings on Hydrofracking, Tribeca Performane Arts Central. She reads a letter from a Union of technical professionals at the DEC. US Geological Survey comments on the Revised Draft SGEIS The USGS faults the DEC for failing to address issues related to groundwater monitoring, aquifer delineation, faults and fractures, water quality sampling, etc. American Lung Association Comments on NYS dSGEIS Jan 11, 2012 NYC DEP Comments on the Revised Draft SGEIS January 11, 2012. Comments to Revised SGEIS by NYC Bar Assoc December, 2011. NRDC: Comments on Revised dSGEIS Cover Letter Catskill Mountainkeeper, Earthjustice, Delaware Riverkeeper Network, Riverkeeper, Natural Resources Defense Council signatories NRDC: Comments on Revised dSGEIS Jan 11, 2012 NRDC: Comments on Revised dSGEIS by Sive Paget & Riesel, P.C. Jan 11, 2012 Earthworks: Comments on Revised dSGEIS Jan 11, 2012 Otsego 2000: Comments on Revised dSGEIS Jan 10, 2012 by Michael D. Zarin and Daniel M. Richmond of Zarin & Steinmetz, Some Scientific Failings with the dSGEIS and Proposed Regulations: Comments and Recommendations By Anthony R., Ingraffea, Ph.D., P.E., Cornell University, January 8, 2012. Comments on NYS DEC SGEIS by Albert F. Appleton Appleton is former Commissioner of NYC Department of Environmental Protection Sullivan County Comments on Draft Revised SGEIS Jan 11, 2012 Binghampton Regional Sustainability Coalition Draft SGEIS Comments January 10, 2012. The Budget Option Sierra Atlantic's Roger Downs outlines a plan to forestall fracking but keeping it out of the New York State budget in 2012. Testimony before the NYS Assembly Standing Committee on Environmental Conservation. October 6, 2011. Testimony by Bruce Ferguson Testimony before the NYS Assembly Environmental Conservation Committee, October 6, 2011. Schoharie Valley Watch NYS dSGEIS Comment Report Links to comments and numerous analyses of aquifers, geological formations, earthquake probabilities, etc., January 10, 2012. 2011 SGEIS Flaws (NY) An open source on the 2011 Draft SGEIS Comments from Preservation League of NY on dSGEIS Jan 10, 2012 Comments on dSGEIS by Amy Galford, Cornell Cooperative Extension January 11, 2012. Comments on rdSGEIS By Jannette M. Barth, Ph.D., January 9, 2012. Local Health Department Concerns--Report of Environment Health Resource Needs Report prepared for NYS HVHF Advisory Panel by the NYS Conference of Environmental Health Directors, January 5, 2012. NYS Assoc. of County Health Officials Report to the HVHF Advisory Panel January 12, 2012. Preliminary Comments and Questions regarding the Economic Assessment Report for the Revised Draft SGEIS Jannette M. Barth, Ph.D, economist posted Sept. 13, 2011 Preservation League of New York State January 10, 2012. Some Key Flaws in the July 2011 dSGEIS Compiled and edited by Ellen Z. Harrison (7/24/11) from points made by Catskill Mountainkeeper, Environmental Advocates, Hang, Ingraffea and others as posted at: TinyURL.com/20115GEISFLAWS from Tompkins County Forum (7/25/2011) on Revised SGEIS Thomas P. DiNapoli, NYS Comptroller Comments on the SGEIS Dec, 2011 Letter to Joe Martens, DEC Commissioner Tony Ingraffea.. Drilling and the DEC: Responding to New Guidelines 20 Minute presentation by Tony Ingraffea, Cornell University. Lou Allstadt: Comments on Preliminary Revised dSGEIS Past Executive Vice President of Mobil Oil Corporation with 31 years working in the oil and gas industry. Mr. Allstadt discussed some of the areas missing in the revised draft and some that are weak...17 slide powerpoint from July 25, 2011 presentation in Ithaca, NY. Hellen Slottje: Local Control & the SGEIS 2.0 Public interest attorney with the nonprofit law firm Community Environmental Defense Council, Inc.: two-part presentation--1. Home Rule Authority, and 2. commenting on the draft SGEIS 26 slide powerpoint from July 25, 2011 Ithaca Forum. Anthony Ingraffea: Drilling and the DEC: Responding to New Guidelines Anthony R. Ingraffea Ph.D., P.E. Physicians, Scientists, and Engineers for Sustainable and Healthy Energy, Inc. Ithaca, NY July 25, 2011. 20 slide powerpoint of presentation on global warming potential due to gas drilling and contamination of groundwater/ aquifers. Roger Downs: DSGEIS--Process and Politics Conservation Program Manager for the Sierra Club Atlantic Chapter overview of the history and current politics surrounding the SGEIS and also discussed how to write good comments on the revised draft SGEIS. 12 slide powerpoint from July 25, 2011 Ithaca Forum Horizontal Hydro Hype Comes to New York New York proposes to protect some residents and not others. A video/powerpoint presentation by James Northrup (15 minutes). Some Scientific Failings with the Draft Supplemental Generic Environmental Statement Statement submitted to the NYS Dept. of Environmental Conservation by Robert W. Howarth, Ph.D, Cornell U. Nov 30, 2011 No Health Impact Assessment Lists some of the studies that need to be considered. From Catskill Citizens, January 10, 2012, A People's Hearing on Gas Drilling--Saturday Jan 7, 2012 Excerpts from a publicly sponsored opportunity to comment on the Revised Draft SGEIS held at SUNY-Delhi, January 9, 2011. (16 minutes).	[top]
The NYS DEC
New York’s Vertical Wells Evidence of High Volume Fracking in NYS What the 1992 GEIS has to Say about Fracking The 1992 GEIS only envisioned foam and nitrogen fracturing operations using between 20,000 and 80, 000 gallons of fluid. It makes no mention of “slickwater” fracking or operations using more than 80,000 gallons of fluid. Well Information Summaries and Other Docs These documents, obtained under FOIL, indicate the high-volume hydraulic fracturing was underway in NYS as early as 2006. The 1992 GEIS discussed frack jobs of 20 to 80,000 gallons. The Frost F2 well was fracked with 640,550 gallons of fluid. Webster T-1 646,000 gallons,Beagall-2 336,924 gallons, Bender-1 270,000 gallons, WG-10 111,720 gallons, Maxwell 436,000 gallons, McDaniels 200,000 gallons, Bush 600,000 gallons. Catskill Citizens to the DEC re: High-Volume Fracking in NYS "Documents obtained under FOIL indicate that the industry has largely abandoned the foam and water-gel operations described in the GEIS, and have been developing vertical wells using high-volume 'slickwater' fracturing." April 19, 2011. Response from Division of Mineral Resources Bradley J. Field In a May 26th, 2011 letter Mr. Field ignores the evidence obtained from his own files and insinuates that high-volume fracking hasn’t already taken place in New York . Catskill Citizens Responds to Mr. Field June 7, 2011 Products and Chemicals used in NYS Vertical Wells “Fresh water, sand…” A May 28th, 2008 email from the DEC’s Division of Mineral Resources that misled the public about the contents of fracking fluid. Products Used to Frack Vertical Wells in New York State What was really being injected in New York’s wells around 2008. The Material Data Safety Sheets for some of the dozens of products, containing dozens of toxic chemicals, that that were used to frack New York wells. Vertical Wells Talking Points NRDC Senior Attorney Kate Sinding explains why vertical wells were explicity included in the moratorium bill vetoed by Governor Paterson. December 2010.	[top]
The Case Against Division of Mineral Resources Director Bradely J. Field Why Field Should be Fired.	[top]
Scoping for the SGEIS The Scoping document preceded the Draft SGEIS. It was supposed to give the public the opportunity to comment on the range of issues to be considered in the SGEIS. Final Scope for Draft Supplemental GEIS (Executive Summary) Cover Letter for Final Scope New York State Department of Environmental ConservationSEQR Notice Final Scope for Draft Supplemental Generic IMpact Statement (dSGEIS) on the Oil, Gas and Solution Mining Regulatory Program Describes the issues that the DEC thinks should be considered when setting regulations for drilling in the Marcellus Shale	[top]
The 2009 NYS Draft SGEIS DRAFT SUPPLEMENTAL GENERIC ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT STATEMENT (SGEIS) A five page summary of the Draft SGEIS. The full 809 page document can be found at http://www.dec.ny.gov/energy/58440.html. The Draft SGEIS The full monty - all 809 pages. Comments by Catskill Citizens for Safe Energy Catskill Citizens for Safe Energy weighs in on the fatally flawed Draft SGEIS.	[top]
Comments on the 2009 NYS Draft SGEIS PEF/encon employees union supports A7400 Sweeney Moratorium Bill May 31, 2011 Letter 5 main reasons included the NYSDEC has almost 800 less stqaff than in 2009 Comments by the Environmental Protection Agency The federal EPA faults New Yorks's plan for shale gas extraction. EPA Region 3 Redline suggestions for Technical Comments Section. Impact Assessment of Natural Gas Production in the New York City Water Supply Watershed New York City's Department of Environmental Protection commissioned this study that concluded that shale gas extraction posed an unacceptable risk to the NYC watershed. By Hazen & Sawyer, December 31, 2009. NYC Comments on dSGEIS 12/22/2009 Comments by the Office of NYC Watershed Inspector Asks for a cumulative impact study and quantative risk assessment of drilling in the Marcellus. December 31, 2009. Briefing to the NYC Water Board on the Natural Gas Impact Assessment Project Hazen and Sawyer report presentation ; 24 slide presentation 12/23/2009 NYS Public Employees Federation, Division 169 Even the DEC's own scientists and technicians find the Draft "inadequate". Comments by the NRDC Comments submitted by Kate Sinding and Eric Goldstein, Senior Attorneys for the NRDC Testimony by Anthony G. Hay Cornell Associate Professor of Microbiology and Soil Ecotoxicology Anthony Hay finds alarmingly high levels of cancer-causing chemicals in fracking fluid. Submitted to the NYS Assembly Environmental Conservation Committee, October 15, 2009. Comments by Stephen Penningroth, Executive Director of the Community Science Institue Comments by Senator Antoine M. Thompson Chair, NYS Senate Environmental Conservation Committee Comments by the Chair of the NYS Senate Environmental Committee. Comments by Delaware Riverkeeper's Tracy Carluccio Tracy Carluccio is Deputy Director of the Delaware Riverkeeper Network. Public Comment Hearing in Loch Sheldrake, NY, October 28, 2009 Delaware Riverkeeper's Talking Points Talking points developed by Delaware Riverkeeper. Comments from Otsego 2000. Mark Dunau Board of Directors of the Northeast Farming Association of NY Comments by Citizens' Environmental Coalition Comments by CEC Executive Director Barbara Warren. Comments by Catskill Citizens Member Bruce Ferguson Public Comment Hearing in Loch Sheldrake, NY, October 28, 2009. Testimony by Andrew Zepp, Executive Director Finger Lakes Land Trust Submitted to NYS Senate Standing Committee Roundtable. Comments by Catskill Citizens member Jane Blake Public Comment Hearing in Loch Sheldrake, NY, October 28, 2009 Comments by Sullivan County College student Anthony Romano Public Comment Hearing in Loch Sheldrake, NY, October 28, 2009	[top]
New York State Laws and Pending Legislation
NY State Laws & Regulations Under state law, local communities have almost no control over the oil and gas companies. Towns are only allowed to regulate the use of roads and real property tax law. A10526A/S8169A The notorious 2008 DEC-backed bill that paved the way for high-volume fracking in NYS - and prompted then-Governor Paterson to order an SGEIS. Environmental Conservation Law Article 23 Article 23 of ECL strips Towns of the ability to regulate drilling. "The provisions of this article shall supersede all local laws or ordinances relating to the regulation of the oil, gas and solution mining industries; but shall not supersede local government jurisdiction over local roads or the rights of local governments under the real property tax law. Go to: "http://public.leginfo.state.ny.us/menugetf.cgi" select "Main Menu" select "Laws of New York" then selct "ENV", select "Article 23" then "Title 3" then selct "23-0303 - Administration of article". Generic Environmental Impact Statement on the Oil, Gas and Solution Mining Regulatory Program The 1992 document that considers the environmental impact of gas extraction in New York State Well spacing and compulsory integration The DEC description of the law that allows gas companies to take your gas, even if you oppose drilling. State Environmental Quality Control Act (SEQR)- SEQR requires the sponsoring or approving governmental body to identify and mitigate significant environmental impacts of the activity that it is proposing or permitting. See State and Local Regulation of Oil and Gas Exploration and Production An anthology of articles. See "Drilling,Casing and Protection of Groundwater" by Eric Scott which asserts "The state with the most disappointingly sparse regulation is New York." IOGCC/EPA State Review of Oil and Gas Exploration and Production Waste Management Regulatory Programs Sept, 1994 Findings covering topics such as rules and regulations, staffing, siting and permitting, brine wastes, other wastes, orphaned wells, Hydrofracking in New York: A Brief Overview By James A. Muscato II and Elizabeth M. Morss, October 13, 2011	[top]
NYS Pending Legislation Legislation We Support A7013/S4616 (Closes the Hazardous Waste Loophole) Removes the exemption that permits hazardous waste from drilling operations to be classified as "industrial" rather than "hazardous". A07218A Prohibits Hydraulic Fracturing Prohibits the use of hydraulic fracturing in the extraction of oil and gas; prohibits acceptance, disposal and/or processing of any fluid used in a hydraulic fracturing process. A 3245/S03472 (Home Rule) Allows local governments to enact or enforce certain laws and ordinances. A8557/S5830 (Home Rule) Clarifies the rights of town's to restrict fracking through zoning. A7400-A/S6261 Would suspend hydraulic fracturing until June 1, 2013. A06541/S6703 Establishes a five year moratorium on high-volume fracking. A05547 (Moratorium linked to the EPA Study) Establishes a moratorium on conducting hydraulic fracturing for the extraction of natural gas or oil until 120 days after federal Environmental Protection Agency issues a report on the effects of hydraulic fracturing on water quality and public health. A 7986/S03483 (Water Testing) Requires permit holders to test groundwater prior to and after drilling wells for oil and natural gas. A06922/S 4834 Assigns liability to a producer for actions leading to a public water system's failure to meet filtration avoidance criteria resulting in the loss of a filtration avoidance criteria waiver. A02922/S425 (Regulation of Fracking Fluids) Would require chemical disclosure and prohibit the use of certain chemicals. A02890/S6345 (Flowback Water) Prohibits the on-site storage of flowback water. A07283A/S 4251-A Requires the promulgation of regulations requiring treatment works to test waste from hydraulic fracturing operations to test for radioactivity. A03140 (Drill Cuttings) Prohibits the disposal of drill cuttings at the drilling site. A2890/S6345 (Flowback water) Would prohibit the onsite storage of flowback water. A00300A/S6097 Establishes a moratorium on the acceptance, disposal and/or processing of any fluid which was used in and drill cuttings from a hydraulic fracturing process performed outside of the state. A02108/S893 (Liability) Establishes the natural gas exploration and extraction liability act of 2011. A02924 (Environmental Impact Statement) Requires an environmental impact statement to be prepared for any natural gas or oil drilling involving the use of hydraulic fracturing fluid.	[top]
NY Legislation and Regulatons We Need to See New York State (NYS) Casing Regulation Recommendations A report commissioned by the NRDC ecommends stricter standards well casing standards for New York State. NYC is NOT Protected! Why NYC Needs a Statewide Ban on Fracking Food & Water Watch Fact Sheet November 2011 Strategic Plan for State Forest Management--DEC 12/29/2010 This plan and generic environmental impact statement (GEIS) will guide the future management of the state's 786,329-acre State Forest holdings. Key goals focus on ecosystem health and diversity, economic benefits, recreational opportunities, forest conservation and sustainable management. Testimony from Catskill Citizens for Safe Energy Testimony submitted to Environmental Committee of the NYS Assembly re: new legislation to regulate the oil and gas industry. October 2009. Testimony by Wes Gillingham of Catskill Mountainkeeper Testimony submitted to Environmental Committee of the NYS Assembly re: new legislation to regulate the oil and gas industry. October 2009. Testimony by Deborah Goldberg, Environmental Advocates of New York Testimony submitted to Environmental Committee of the NYS Assembly re: new legislation to regulate the oil and gas industry. October 2009. Katherine Nadeau, Environmental Advocates of New York Testimony submitted to Environmental Committee of the NYS Assembly re: new legislation to regulate the oil and gas industry. October 2009. Kate Sinding, Attorney for the National Resource Defense Council (NRDC) Testimony submitted to Environmental Committee of the NYS Assembly re: new legislation to regulate the oil and gas industry. October 2009.	[top]
Protecting the NYC Watershed New York City website: Natural Gas Drilling in Marcellus Shale links to: Slideshow, overview, NYC DEP Position, DEC dSGEIS, Video, pictures and maps, resources and links, and recent news. NYC DEP 2011-2014 Strategy Feb,2011 Strategic Plan includes the goal of protecting NYC watershed including protecting thewater supply from hydrofracking for natural gas in the NYC watershed. Oversight: Natural Gas Drilling in the New York City Drinking Water Watershed New York City Council Briefing Paper NYC DEP Commissioner Emily Lloyd seeks special consideration for the NYC watershed Commissioner Lloyd's July 8, 2008 letter to DEC Commissioner Grannis asks the DEC to recognize the NYC watershed as "unique resource requiring special protection." Testimony of Alexander B. Grannis, Commissioner New York State Department of Environmental Conservation New York City Council Committee on Environmental Protection Hearing: Natural Gas Drilling in the New York City Drinking Water Watershed September 10, 2008 Testimony of Assemblymember Deborah Glick Testimony before the New York City Council regarding natural gas drilling in the City's upstate watershed. September 10, 2008 Statement of Dusty Horwitt, JD, Senior Analyst for Public Lands, Environmental Working Group Oversight Hearing on Natural Gas Drilling in the New York City Watershed, Part II. Before the New York City Council Committee on Environmental Protection, Friday, December 12, 2008 at 10:00 a.m. CCSE Testimony on the New York City Watershed Testimony before the Environmental Committee of the New York City Council 9/10/2008 Oil & Gas Accountability Project Testimony on the New York City Watershed Testimony before the Environmental Committee of the New York City Council 9/10/2008	[top]
Leasing and Compulsory Integration
NYS Compulsory Integration New York State Law can compell landowners to have natural gas extracted from their property against the will of the owner. If the gas company succeeds in leasing 60% of the land in a "production unit", they forcilby "integrate" the other 40% of the land. A08672B/S 5553-B The 2005 Compulsory Intergration This bill, written by gas industry lobbyists, was introduced in the legislature with the full support of the DEC's Division of Mineral Resources. It was unanimously voted out of both the Assembly and Senate within three weeks. The 2005 Compulsory Integration Law This doc shows the (unanimous) votes in favor of the bill. Marcellus Shale: The Real Price of Compulsory Integration In New York Compulsory integration now plays a crucial role for gas drillers assembling sites in New York. No well can be drilled without a state permit. And no permit can be awarded until the drilling company creates an approved 640-acre “spacing unit” at the proposed well site. The spacing unit is made up of property leased to the drilling company, plus property owned by holdouts who won’t lease. Compulsory integration may only be applied if the driller obtains leases on property totaling at least 60 percent of the proposed spacing unit. After that threshold is reached, the company can force the holdouts to join against their will. To some, that arrangement seems an outrageous violation of basic private property rights. A Critical Review of the Compulsory Integration Requirement, Title 9 of Article 23 NYS ECL White Paper by William C. Fischer 11/12/2011 Outline of Statutory Unitization Gas leasing attorney Chris Denton charts the vaious ways in which gas companies can extract gas - either by leasing or various forms of compulsory integration. DEC Program Policy DMN-1: Public Hearing Processes for Oil and Gas Well Spacing and Compulsory Integration Issuing Authority: Bradley J. Field, Director, Division of Mineral Resources Date Issued: February 22, 2006 This policy provides guidance to Department staff for the initiation and conduct of public hearings for oil and gas well spacing and compulsory integration.	[top]
Gas Leasing Information on gas leasing in several New York counties; deceptive leasing practices routinely employed by the gas industry. A08672B/S 5553-B The 2005 Compulsory Intergration This bill, written by gas industry lobbyists, was introduced in the legislature with the full support of the DEC's Division of Mineral Resources. It was unanimously voted out of both the Assembly and Senate within three weeks. A map of leased land in Broome County, NY Finger Lakes Region Gas Lease Mapping Report Gas leases in eight Finger Lakes Counties by Citizens Campaign for the Environment, July, 2011. Information on Leasing in Tompkins County The MAP- Tompkins website. Percent Leaseholders Compared to Total Residents in Tompkins County MAP - Tompkins uncovers some surprising facts. Gas Leases in Sullivan County No new gas leases have been signed in Sullivan County since July 2009. Six Tricks of Landsmen & Gas Company Reps From Catskill Citizens, 2008. What to Know and What to Do When a Landman Comes to Your Door. Tips from the Chenango County Farm Bureau. 2008. What Some Landmen Say and What the Real Answer Is From the Chenango County Farm Bureau, 2008. Some Examples of Deceptive Practices or Abuses in Leasing From the Chenango County Farm Bureau. Minimum Rules for the Examination and Review of an Oil or Gas Lease From the Chenango County Farm Bureau. Attorney General Cuomo Cautions Comsumers About the Potential Pitfalls of Oil & Gas Leases Landman Report Card Landowners rate the landsmen who come knocking at their door. Impact of Gas Drilling on Small Landowners A Sullivan County resident considers how small landowners might be impacted by shale gas extraction. By Richard Kreznar, 2010. Sullivan County Forum on gas leasing Panelists Bradd Vickers, President of the Chenango County Farm Bureau, gas leasing attorney Christopher Denton, and attorney Todd M. Mathes - one of the first to point out that ECL 23 does not override local zoning ordinances. Sponsored by the Sullivan County legislature and Division of Planning and Environmental Management. June 29, 2010. (Video, three hours.)	[top]
Municipal Control of Extraction Operations
Home Rule (NYS) Including the landmark decisions in the Dryden and Middlefield cases that upheld the right of towns to prohibit fracking. Municipal Anti-fracking Movements in New York State FracTrackers map and list of bans and moratoriums in New York State. Updated May 8, 2012. Natural Gas Production and Municipal Home Rule in New York “…municipalities may continue to regulate land use or other matters involving public health, safety and welfare that fall outside the State’s regulatory program.” By Michael E. Kenneally, Esq. and Todd M. Mathes, Esq. January/February 2010. The Exercise of Local Control Over Gas Extraction “In New York, local governments under ‘municipal home rule’ have the right to enact laws that protect the visual and physical characteristics of an area and maintain public order. These purposes may lead to an incidental impact upon a heavy industry, such as the oil, gas and solution mining industries.” By Michelle L. Kennedy, Fordham Environmental Law Review, Spring, 2011. Municipal Powers and Limitations with Respect to Natural Gas Drilling A power point presentation by David R. Everett, Esq at the NYS Association of Towns 2012 Annual Meeting and Training School, February 21, 2012. A Legal Plan to Control Drilling “There is no question that exclusion of industrial uses is a proper and legitimate use of land-use laws.” By David Slottje, Esq.and Helen Holden Slottje , Esq., 2009. Prohibit Fracking Through Zoning Land & Road Laws-Navigating a Path to Local Control Helen Slottje, Esq and David Dlottje, Esq., Community Environmental Defense Council, Inc. April 9, 2011 31 slides To What Extent Can Municipalities Regulate Natural Gas Producction Operations? “…a municipality could use zoning to make gas drilling a prohibited use in all zones." By Robert H. Feller, Esq. of Bond, Schoeneck King PLLC Published by NYS Association of Towns. October 2011. Natural Gas and Municipal Considerations Attorney Todd M. Mathes attempts to figure out what powers Towns have under ECL 23. Do State and Local Regulations that Prohibit Gas Drilling Based on Police and Land Use Powers Violate the Commerce Clause? Anne Marie Garti legal analysis dated Aug 1, 2011 17 pp Selected Topics on the Municipal Power of Regulation in Regards to Oil & Gas Exploration and Production A presentation by Guy K., Krogh, Esq. of Thaler & Thaler before the New York Association of Towns in Corning, NY. October 17, 2011. Municipal Zoning Bans on Natural Gas Drilling and Related Lawsuits A presentation by David R. Everett of the law firm of Whiteman, Osterman & Hanna before the New York Association of Towns in Corning, NY. Oct 17, 2011 Zoning and the Marcellus Shale Levels of Government in New York and Pennsylvania City and Regional Planning Workshop By Heather Blaikie and Victoria Demchak, Fall 2010 Observations Concerning the Role of Local Government in Relation to Natural Gas Exploration and Production in the Marcellus Shale in the Southern Tier East Region of New York State This technical paper has been prepared by the Southern Tier East Regional Planning Development Board to assist local governments within its region in responding to recent activity concerning natural gas exploration on the Marcellus Shale which underlies large portions of the Southern Tier East Region of New York State. Preparing for Natural Gas Development: Understanding Impacts and Protecting Public Assets Sullivan County reports on what Towns can do to prepare for gas drilling. Supervisor Jim Goldstein, Lebanon Township, Madison County, NY Gas drillers have been operating in the Town of Lebanon since the late ‘90’s, and in recent years the pace of drilling has accelerated. About 55 wells have been drilled in the Township, and another 30 are in various stages of development. Supervisor Jim Goldstein has had to deal with virtually every issue that can arise when drillers come to town. New York towns have control Even though towns can’t control drilling procedures, they can enforce zoning laws that may prohibit gas drilling operations within all or part of a town’s jurisdiction. Letter to the Editor by Bruce Ferguson. November, 2010. CASE LAW: IN THE MATTER OF GERNATT ASPHALT PRODUCTS, INC., RESPONDENT, v. THE TOWN OF SARDINIA, ET AL., APPELLANTS. “A municipality is not obliged to permit the exploitation of any and all natural resources within the town as a permitted use if limiting that use is a reasonable exercise of its police powers to prevent damage to the rights of others and to promote the interests of the community as a whole.” Land Use Planning to Protect Your Town Presentation by Nan Stolzenburg, AICP 12 slide powerpoint Road Use Planning April 11, 2011 Mike Wieszchowski, P.E., PTOE Professional Traffic Operations Engineer SAMPLE ROAD USE AGREEMENT A sample road use agreement drafted by the Northern Wayne Property Owner's Association. What Local Governments Can Do To Minimize the Negative Impacts of Gas Drilling Local government officials are only beginning to hear about the unanticipated consequences of gas drilling on nearby communities These impacts will cost the local government money and thus affect all of us whether we signed a lease or own any land. Produced by CDOG (Chenango Delaware Otsego Gas Group). Local Ordinances Moratoria, Bans, Resolutions In New York State and around the world. Compiled by Keuka Citizens Against Hydrofracking, February 15, 2012. RESOLUTION OF TOWN BOARD OF THE TOWN OF BETHEL TO INTRODUCE A LOCAL LAW TO AMEND ZONING Unanimously adopted January 12, 2012. Land Use Analysis: Hazardous or Natural Gas and/or Petroleum Activities & Industrial Uses Prepared for the Town of Bethel (Sullivan County), New York by Greenplan, Inc., January 23, 2012. Proposed Local Law No. 1 of the Year 2012 Town of Bethel Proposed Local Law No. 1 of the Year 2012 A local law to amend and supplement Local Law No. 1 of 2009. ATTACHED TO AND FORMING A PART OF TOWN OF BETHEL (NY) LOCAL LAW NO. 1 of the YEAR 2012, APPENDIX A ATTACHED TO AND FORMING A PART OF TOWN OF BETHEL (NY) LOCAL LAW NO. 1 of the YEAR 2012, Town of Tusten Zoning Law--Final Draft Article 14 Article 14 prohibits natural gas exploration activities. December 2011 Aquifer Protection Law The Town of Virgil creates and aquifer protection district. April 8, 2010. Road Use Ordinances in New York Mike Wieszchowski, P.E., Professional Traffic Operations Engineer April 9, 2011 15 slides New Berlin HIghway Work Permit New regulations control many of the impacts of drilling, including seismic testing, use of dangerous elements, noise and odor. The Town of Dryden Dryden's Zoning Ordinances That Prohibit Fracking Dryden's ordinances explicitly prohibit any and all activities associated with shale gas extraction. All were upheld by the State Supreme Court with the exception of the invalidation of permits issued by the state. Judge Philip Rumsey's Landmark Decison Upholding the Town of Dryden's Right to Prohibit Fracking The first court test of the limits of the preemption clause in ECL 23. “Nowhere in the legislative history… is there any suggestion that the legislature… to preempt local zoning authority.” February 21, 2012 Anschutz Exploration Corp vs Town of Dryden Lawsuit (Petition and Complaint) Filed Sept 16, 2011 MEMORANDUM OF LAW IN SUPPORT OF MOTION TO INTERVE OF DRYDEN RESOURCES AWARENESS COALITION AND IN OPPOSITION TO THE PETITION/COMPLAINT Anschutz vs Dryden Amicus Brief by Earthjustice Deoborah Goldberg and Bridget Lee filling dated 10/31/2011 Anschutz vs Dryden: Memorandum of Law of Proposed Amicus Curiae Town of Ulysses Whiteman Osterman & Hanna, LLP dated 11/1/2011 Anschutz Exploration Corp vs Town of Dryden Anschutz vs Dryden: Affidavit in Support of Motion to Appear as Amicus Curiae Affidavit from Roxanne Marino, Supervisor of the Town of Ulysses Anschutz vs Dryden: Affidavit of Support of Motion to Appear as Amicus Curiae Affidavit of John J. Henry, Esq. Partner of Whiteman Osterman & Hanna LLP Nov 1, 2011 MEMORANDUM OF LAW AMICI CURIAE OF NATURAL RESOURCES DEFENSE COUNCIL, INC et al. IN the matter of ANSCHUTZ EXPLORATION CORPORATION,Petitioner-Plaintiff, -against- TOWN OF DRYDEN AND TOWN OF DRYDEN TOWN BOARD Memorandum of Law Amici Curiae of Natural Resources Defense Council, Inc. et al. ORDER TO SHOW CAUSE. Living in Dryden Blog by a Dryden resident. The Town of Middlefield Decision and Order, Cooperstown Holstein Corp. v. Town of Middlefield Acting Supreme Court Justice Donald F. Cerio, Jr.dismisses the suit challenging Middlefield's zoning prohibition against fracking. February 24, 2012 Cooperstown Holstein Corp. vs Middlefield Complaint Filed Sept 15, 2011 Local Jurisdiction over Gas Drilling: Memorandum to Town of Middletown Discusses the extent to which local government can assert jurisdiction over gas drilling operations in light of the preemption provision contained in Environmental Conservation Law (ECL) §23-0303(2). Bond, Schoeneck & King, PLLC, May 12, 2011. LAND USE ANALYSIS: HEAVY INDUSTRY AND OIL, GAS OR SOLUTION MINING AND DRILLING PREPARED FOR: TOWN BOARD OF THE TOWN OF MIDDLEFIELD PREPARED BY: GREENPLAN INC., MAY 10, 2011. NOTICE OF MOTION FOR LEAVE TO FILE MEMORANDUMOF LAW AMICI CURIAE Natural Resources Defense Council, Inc. et al. in the matter of COOPERSTOWN HOLSTEIN CORPORATION,Plaintiff,-against- TOWN OF MIDDLEFIELD,Defendant.	[top]
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Impacts on Communities - Organizing and Outreach
Impact on Communities Testimony on Community Impacts from Marcellus Shale Drilling, Tioga County Commissioners Jan 26, 2011 Comments on Community Aesthetics, Tourism and Hotels, Roads & Bridges, Courthouse Services, Housing, Human Services, Emergency Services, Courts & Corrections, Conservation Districts, EHRA: A Human Rights Assessment of Hydraulic Fracturing for Natural Gas Enviornmental and Human Health Impacts Associated with Hydraulic Fracturing Operations by Earthworks' Oil and Gas Accountability Project, December 12, 2011. Environmental and Social Implications of Hydraulic Fracturing and Gas Drilling in the United States Duke University, January 11, 2012. Video (1:12:00). Executive Summary: Tompkins County Community Impact Assessment HVHF Prepared by Greenplan, Inc. dated Dec, 15, 2011 Identifies Community, Environmental & Economic Impacts LOCAL LEADERS’ PERCEPTIONS OF ENERGY DEVELOPMENT IN THE BARNETT SHALE This 2009 study uncovered numerous negative impacts associated with shale gas extraction in Texas, Open Letter to Communities Working to Stop Fracking from the Community Environmental Legal Defense Fund It’s time to use our municipal governments to demand an end to all activities and policies that are harmful to our communities and the natural communities upon which our lives depend. It's time to undo a structure of law that authorizes corporate minorities to run roughshod over community majorities. Isn’t that what democracy is supposed to be about? Community Impact Assessment: High Volume Hydraulic Fracturing Prepared for the Tompkins County Council of Governments by Greenplan, Inc., December 15, 2011. Sullivan County Public Forum Gas drilling will inevitably have an impacts on the economy and character of local communities. A panel discussion featuring Jannette Barth, economist; Anthony J. Ventello, Exec. Dir of Progress Authority of Bradford and Susquehanna Counties; Jeffrey Jacquet, PhD candidate, Dept. of Natural Resources, Cornell U.; Craig Sautner, resident of Dimock, PA. Recorded at Monticello High School in Sullivan County, NY August 19, 2010. Hotel and Motel taxes in Sullivan County The rates of such tax shall not exceed five per cent of the per diem rental rate for each room, provided, however, such tax shall not be applicable to a permanent resident of such hotel or motel. For the purposes of this section the term "permanent resident" shall mean a person occupying any room or rooms in a hotel or motel for at least ninety consecutive days. An Ohio Landowner's Guide to Hydraulic Fracturing Harvard Law School Emmett Environmental Law and Policy Clinic June 16, 2011 Considering Shale Gas Extraction in North Carolina: Lessons from Other States Discussion draft from Duke University Environmental Law & Policy Forum, November, 2011. Fracking - How to Protect Your Community This video describes effective Community Organizing Strategies to influence decision makers to ban Fracking in your area. Food and Water Watch. (Video 11:42) Landscapes of Extraction Photographer J Henry Fair captures aerial images of pollution and destruction that result from extreme industrial processes. The images, simultaneously beautiful and horrifying, are meant to be viewed as a commentary on the impact of human consumption on the environment.	[top]
Community Organizing and Outreach Talking Points Dryden NY Announces Petition to Ban zoning DRAC announces the results of a petition drive to ban fracking, calls on the Dryden Town Board to pass a protective zoning ordinance; Town Board unanimously passes resolution to move forward with drafting an ordinance. How to Prohibit Fracking In Your New York Town Julie Huntsman Fly Creek, NY posted 4/2/2011 7 minute slide show Playing for Keeps along the Susquehanna A Community-Integrated GIS of Land and Water Uses and Rights in Rural Pennsylvania's Marcellus Shale Natural Gas Play. By Dr. Simona L. Perry, July 27, 2011. Talking Points for Town Meetings A guide for a discussion of drilling issues. Talking Points for Town Meetings (Sullivan County Version) This version contains information specific to Sullivan County. Conflicts of Interest Conflicts of Interest in Land Use Decision-Making Elected and appointed officials involved in land use decision-making must not be tainted with prejudice when deciding on matters that come before them. Such prejudice exists when the individual finds herself with a conflict of interest. A conflict of interest arises when a public servant is in the position of deciding between public duty and private interests. By Gary D. Taylor, Iowa State University. Dealing with Drillers Dealing with Drillers Town of Lebanon Supervisor Jim Goldstein describes his experience dealing with natural gas corporations. Resolutions Proposed Resolution This resolution is designed for Towns that wish to express their support for NYS legislation that would restore home rule and impose a moratorium on shale gas extraction until the EPA has concluded it's study of fracking and drinking water safety. Proposed Resolution (Sullivan County Version) A version of the proposed resolution designed for use in Sullivan County. Request to Members of Sullivan County Town Councils Five citizens advocacy groups call on Sullivan County Town Councils to endorse a resolution calling for a statewide moratorium on hydraulic fracturing and independent scientific assessment of its safety. Resolution offered by five citizens advocacy groups Memorializing the Governor and the Legislature of the State of New York to place in effect a moratorium on hydrofracking, and requesting the Governor to pursue further independent scientific assessments to determine the risks associated with hydrofracking, and requesting Mr. Andrew Cuomo, Democratic Party candidate for Governor, to express his support of such moratorium What Other Communities Have Done Presentations to Cochecton Planning Board Presentations delivered by grassroots group Keep Cochecton Green* in response to Cochecton's intention to explicitly zone for natural gas drilling in 90% of the town.*	[top]
Legal Tools SUMMARY OF VARIOUS LEGAL TOOLS AVAILABLE FOR ACTIVISTS CONCERNED ABOUT NATURAL GAS DRILLING Lawyers can be helpful to activists, but only as a tool, the way you dig up a weed with a tool. Sometimes a trowel will do the trick, sometimes you need a backhoe. But the tool cannot do it without the driver, the muscle of the people who want to achieve a goal. By Mary Jo Long.	[top]
Speaking Out! Oppostion to Fracking Businesses CWCWC Sues to Prevent DEC from High Volume Horizontal The Croton Watershed Clean Water Coalition, Inc. (CWCWC) has sued the Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) in New York State Supreme Court to declare High Volume Horizontal Hydraulic Fracturing (HVHHF) in New York State Forests contrary to the New York State Constitution and applicable environmental laws. May 3, 2011 Hall of Fame Statement on Hydrofracking March 25, 2011 by CooperstownChamberDirector . News Details - County Work Group Urges State to Address Gas Drilling’s Effects on Real Estate May 31, 2011 Concerned about effects that are already being felt in the local real estate market, a Tompkins County group is urging State officials to address economic considerations related to natural gas drilling. Pittsburgh City Council Resolution to begin testing drinking water Passed 3/2/2011 Pittsburgh City Councilman Doug Shields Calls for Water Testing March 2, 2011 Councilman introduces resolution to test for radioactive materials. Written Testimony of Conrad Daniel Volz, DrPH, MPH Before the Senate Committee on Environment and Public Works and its Subcommittee on Water and Wildlife, Joint Hearing “Natural Gas Drilling, Public Health and Environmental Impacts”, April 12, 2011 Unconventional gas extraction in deep shale deposits presents considerable risks to public health and safety as well as to environmental resources, particularly water quality and aquatic organisms. My testimony today will cover three critical public health and environmental policy areas related to unconventional natural gas production A JOINT STATEMENT ON HYDROFRACKING IN NEW YORK STATE BY THE LEATHERSTOCKING CORPORATION AND BREWERY OMMEGANG Mar 15, 2011 The Leatherstocking Corporation, The Otesaga Hotel, The Cooper Inn and The Leatherstocking Golf Course, join with Brewery Ommegang in Cooperstown, New York, to express our profound concern over the utilization of hydrofracking methods in the drilling for shale gas in Otsego County. PARK SLOPE FOOD COOP STATEMENT ON HYDROFRACKING FOR SHALE GAS Last year we purchased millions of dollars of New York State produced agricultural products. If hydrofracking is allowed to go forward we will start researching alternatives to NYS products. December 8, 2010. STATEMENT FROM BASSETT MEDICAL CENTER BOARD OF TRUSTEES RESOLUTION BY THE MEDICAL STAFF OF THE BASSETT HEALTHCARE NETWORK REGARDING HYDROFRACKING FOR NATURAL GAS Feb, 2011 The Case for a Ban on Gas Fracking--Food & Water Watch Posted June 2011 The Farmers’ Museum and the New York State Historical Association Statement on Hydrofracking March 23, 2011 Petition to Prohibit Shale Gas Industrialization in the Town of Otsego February 25, 2011 Brewery Ommegang Calls for Ban on Hydrofracking Otsego County’s pure water threatened by water pollution and other environmental risks. December 2010. What is Fracking and Why Should I Care? Methodist Federation for Social Action/NY Chapter in it's 2010 Annual Conference Newsletter advocates for a "federal" approach to drilling and the passing of the FRAC act. Beware fracking’s allure: ‘Cleaner’ fuel alternative not necessarily safer Article expressing concerns about fracking found in General Board of Church and Society of the United Methodist Church. In part..."We, as caretakers of God’s good creation, must bear in mind that it is our duty to seek out energy solutions rooted in our values of justice and sustainability." January, 2011. Civic Organizations The League of Women Voters of New York State The LWV of New York supports a bill that would impose a drilling moratorium until after the EPA has concluded its study of hydaulilc fracturing and drinkine water safety. June 4, 2010. Conservation Societies Postion Statement from the Otsego COunty Conservation Association Gas development cannot be shown to safeguard the intrinsic qualities each and every one of us so cherish here in our immediate environment. June 17, 2009 Statement of Trout Unlimited at the Forum on Natural Gas Hydraulic Fracturing on Public Lands, Department of the Interior We know from experience that fracking and related gas development pose substantial risks to trout watersheds. NOvember 2010. Faith-Based Principles for considering Marcellus Shale Drilling: Pennsylvania Interfaith Power and Light (PA IPL) is a community of congregations, faith-based organizations, and individuals of faith responding to climate change as a moral issue. Posted September 2011. 2010 REPORTS TO THE NEW YORK ANNUAL CONFERENCEPETITION # 2010-314 — ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION AGENCY OVERSIGHT OF 20 HYDRAULIC FRACTURING PROCESS A REsolution to support the Frac Act and urging the NY DEC to fully protect the environment and the health of NY residents. Submitted by the Methodist Federation for Social Action Horizontal Hydrofracking: An Issue of Church Concern The Session of the First Presbyterian Church of Cooperstown supports a temporary moratorium on gas drilling. Adopted November 15, 2010. Hydrualic Fracturing Position Statement by New York Interfaith Power & Light NYIPL expresses "serious concerns about the safety of hydraulic fracturing Position Statement. The Medical Profession The American Academy of Pediatrics, District II, New York State supports a Drilling Moratorium The American Academy of Pediatrics, Dist. II, NYS, representing strongly supports a moratorium on high-volume hydraulic fracturing until after the the EPA has concluded its ongoing study of hydraulic fracturing and drinking wafter safety. June 7, 2010. Statement from the Physicians of Tompkins County The exploitation of natural gas in the Marcellus shale involves high-pressure injection of over 200 billion of gallons of water and billions of gallons of water-soluble chemicals into the shale formations to allow the release of natural gas. Backflow from this process contains heavy metals, radioactive materials and volatile organic compounds. The effects of this process on human health have not been subject to rigorous medical research. Fall of 2010. Statement from the Onondaga Medical Society The Onondaga County Medical Society expresses its strongly held opinion that there is insufficient scientific evidence available to assure that the process of hydrofracking to enhance natural gas production is safe. November 26, 2010. New York State Counties Cortlandt County New York Calls for a Temporary Ban on Hydrofracking April 23, 2010. Onandoga County Calls for a Temporary Ban on Hydrofracking Seeks a restoration of home rule. March 2, 2010. Putnam County, New York Resolution Calling for a Staewide Ban on Hydrofracking August 5, 2010. Tompkins County New York Calls for a Temporary Ban on Hyrdrofracking May 18, 2010. Westchester County New York Calls for a Statewide Moratorium on Hydrofracking June 7, 2010. Municipalities Citizens Campaign for the Environment Hydro-Fracking Resource Center Listing of county and town hydro-fracking Resolutions Posted July 25, 2011 New York State Hydrofracking Bans and Restrictions Locations of all counties and municipalities around New York State that have either banned or placed some type of restriction(s) on Hydraulic Fracturing in their area. Google Maps The Pittsburgh Ordinance Banning Gas Extraction This Ordinance shall be known and may be cited as “Pittsburgh’s Community Protection from Natural Gas Extraction Ordinance." November, 2010. Re: The Pittsburgh Ban The Pittsburgh City Council became the first municipality in the United States to ban natural gas extraction within its boundaries. A letter from the Community Environmental Legal Defense Fund. November 24, 2010. Flower Mound, Texas Supports the FRAC Act June 7, 2010	[top]
Accidents	[top]
Eyewitness Accounts
Print	[top]
Video Carolyn Knapp and Carol French (PA dairy farmers) Two PA dairy farmers describe how fracking has disrupted their lives. By ShaleShock. (59 minutes.) The Fracking Landscape: A Tale of Two Pennsylvanias From the Atlantic, February 2012. Ex-oil worker blasts shale gas industry / Ex-oil worker's concerns Maxime Daigle worked in the oil industry for seven years but is now protesting against fracking. Water Well Exploding with Methane in Franklin Twp. , PA High methane (38 mg/liter) in the water has been linked to gas new gas wells one mile from the home. (1:46) March 11, 2012. How Can They Do This? First-hand accounts of how residents of Gardendale, TX have been treated by Berry Oil and their landmen. From Berry Tales Volume 3,September 2011. Video, 7:57. It's Like We're Losing Our Love The emotional impact of the natural gas drilling on the residents of Bradford County, PA. By Dr. Simona L. Perry.	[top]
Handouts
Handouts Air Pollution Near Fracking Wells May Create An Incredibly Long List Of Health Problems An article from Business Insider formatted as a one-page handout. March 2012. Debunking the Myths About Shale Gas Six myths about shale gas. From Catskill Citizens, March 2012. GET THE FACTS! IMPACT ON HUMAN AND ANIMAL HEALTH A one-page handout describes the impact of fracking on human and animal health as reported in the peer-reviewed Bamberger/Oswald study. From Catskill Citizens, March 2012. A Balance Sheet for New York State: What is New York State’s Net Equity from Shale Gas Development? Prepared by Jannette M. Barth, Ph.D., January 4, 2012 Loopholes for Polluters The oil and gas industry is exempt from key provisions of seven major federal environmental laws -- allowing practices that would otherwise be illegal. By Earthworks, May 16, 2011. Oil and Gas Pollution A two page fact sheet form the Oil and Gas Accountability Project. The Fracking Truth A one-page handout from Catskill Citizens. Revised January 2012. “Slam Bam, Thank You Ma’am”: Don’t let Gas Drilling Destroy A Critical Industry New York State estimates that every $1 generated directly by tourism, the industry indirectly generates another $7 for the State’s economy. According to the draft SGEIS, the oil & gas industry generates only $1.40 per $1. February, 2011. ESSENTIAL READING ON UNCONVENTIONAL SHALE GAS EXTRACTION A one page guide to some of the best sources of information on shale gas extraction. Marcellus Shale: Economic Benefits to New York State? Posted Feb 6, 2011 by CCSE In reality, the net economic impact on New York State is unlikely to be worth the potentially severe and in some cases irreversible consequences of shale gas extraction. Reasons for a Moratorium on HVHF Shale Gas Drilling in NYS We list of 8 actions needed before there is any gas drilling in NYS. The Economics of Extracting Gas from Shale Formations How much does that gas cost and who really pays the bills? A brochure by GasMain.org. Fall 2010. How will High-Volume Hydraulic Fracturing of the Marcellus Shale Differ from Traditional Hydraulic Fracturing? The gas industry (and the NYS DEC and PA DEP) like to pretend that the method used to extract gas from the Marcellus has been around for years, but that's not true. Prepared by the Marcellus Accountability Project January 2010. What Can You Do? Six things every citizen should do to understand gas drilling and take action. Oil & Gas Industry Footprint The actual footprint of drilling operations - in terms of noise pollution, air pollution,soil contamination etc. Distance impacts from noice, surface water from gas drilling, views. From CDOG, Oct 21, 2008 The Economics of Extracting Gas from Shale Formations A brochure on economic impact developed by GasMain.org Hunting and Fishing at Risk Gas drilling threatenswildlife, habitat, access and safety. A brochure from CDOG. What happened to the fish? Gas drilling threatens aquatic life, pristine fishing streams, and valuable water resources. A brochure produced by GasMain. March 2011. What Local Governments Can Do To Minimize the Negative Impacts of Gas Drilling By Mary Jo Long, Esq., Undated.	[top]
Vote Where It Counts
New Yorkers have the right to vote from their second homes. VOTE WHERE IT COUNTS New Yorkers have the right to vote from their second homes. This is an important tool that can be used to elect local officials that will protect us from dangerous drilling. (Revised April 2011 to reflect changes in registration procedures and in the format of the registration cards.) VOTE WHERE IT COUNTS This generic version does not reference gas extraction or Catskill Citizens.	[top]
Polls and Opinions
Public Opinion Polls New Yorkers Living on the Shale say "No!" to Fracking Polls of Delaware and Sullivan County reveal widespread opposition to fracking, support for home rule. October, 2011. Americans and Energy Policy: The Myth of the Partisan Divide A Survey for the Civil Society Institute conducted by ORC International,April 25, 2012. DRINKING WATER POLLUTION CONCERNS FUELING AWARENESS OF FRACKING Americans Unwilling to Trade Clean Drinking Water For Dirty Energy Production. An overview of the survey conducted by the Civil Society Institute. December 21, 2010. “FRACKING” AND CLEAN WATER: A survey of 1,012 Americans conducted in November shows that the issues related to hydraulic fracturing (known as "fracking") are emerging as a concern as they relate to drinking water safety. Conducted for the Civil Society Institute. December 21, 2010. SURVEY: HALF OF NEW YORK STATE RESIDENTS ARE AWARE OF NYC DRINKING WATER POLLUTION CONCERNS TIED TO NATURAL GAS "FRACKING" While Awareness of Potential Threat Lags in New York City, State Residents Are Unwilling to Trade Clean Drinking Water For Dirty Energy Production; Strong Support Seen For Putting Emphasis on Energy Production With Minimum of Pollution. A summary of the Civil Society Institute poll. December 21, 2010. SURVEY: WATER POLLUTION FROM NATURAL GAS "FRACKING" A CONCERN FOR FOUR OUT OF FIVE PENNSYLVANIANS AWARE OF THE PROCESS Strong Support Across Party Lines Seen in Pennsylvania For Putting Emphasis on Energy Production With Minimum of Pollution; More than Four Out of Five Want Better Disclosure of Risks. The Civil Society Institute, December 21, 2010. “FRACKING” AND CLEAN WATER: A SURVEY OF PENNSYLVANIA RESIDENTS A survey conducted in November 2010 shows that the issue of hydraulic fracturing (known as "fracking") is already a major concern as it relates to drinking water safety. The Civil Society Institute. New York Opinon Index Empire State Poll 2010 New Yorkers attitude toward natural gas drilling from the Cornell University Survey Research Institute.	[top]
Op Eds and Editorials A Balanced Look At Hydrofracking by Steve Coffman, Opinion Sept.11, 2011 Gas and tap water simply do not mix: Mark Ruffalo says feds must review safety of hydrofracking May 13, 2011 Opinion by Mark Ruffalo We need all the protection we can get The River Reporter March 31, 2011 America's Energy Ethos: Do, Regardless of Harm David Sirota comments on US energy policy and natural gas drilling. Posted June 11, 2011 Gas Prices and a Sane Energy Policy New York Times 3/11/2011 Halt gas drilling until water safety is assured March 13, 2011 Newark Star-Ledger There's Nothing Natural About Natural Gas by Jennifer Krill AlterNet Posted 4/1/2011 Bolstering home rule in New York 12/02/2010 The River Reporter Gas drilling and legal suits 12/2/2010 River Reporter Gas Leaks on the Path to a Post-Fossil Future Andrew C. Revkin 1/25/2011 in New York Times Dot Earth Blog True Independence 11/11/2010 The River Reporter US Probe Finds Halliburton Lies Contributed to BP Disaster 10/29/2010 Earthworks Visioning the Upper Delaware River Valley--Smoke & Mirros by Michael Chojnicki 11/25/2010 The River Reporter Transparency 08/26/2010 The River Reporter Taking a stand 08/19/2010 The River Reporter The Right to Water--The right of every human being to safe drinking water and basic sanitation should be recognized and realized. 07/06/2010 New York Times Putting a ban on hydrofracking is...in the public interest Alan Chartok in July 6th Legislative Gazette The Challenges of Horizontal Hydraulic Fracturing in New York State 07/25/2010 Cooperstown Chamber of Commerce News, comments by James Northrup The Real Cost of Hydrofracking by Steve Coffman When it comes to the prospect of the Marcellus Shale Gas Boom, the main question we need to ask is: What is the value that we as a region stand to gain versus the value of what we are likely to lose? Inverse Condemnation Are restrictions on gas extraction a 'taking' of property rights? An editorial from "Breathing is Political" by Liz Bucar. Did Somebody Put Something in the Water in Albany? Tyler Caruso, a graduate student in Environmental Policy and Sustainability, talks sense about shale gas extraction. Affirming Gasland Director Josh Fox and others rebut specious industry claims. Letter to the Alexander Grannis A concerned citizen write to Alexander Grannis, Commissioner NYS Department of Environmental Conservation. Letter to the Editor A concerned citizen comments on NY's environmental safety record. Concerned Citizen writes to support NY Moratorium--8/14/2010 Gas drilling threatens water supply; moratorium needed A Geologist Weighs In Geologist David Hutchison comments on drilling in the Marcellus Shale. A Summer View of Drilling Greening Sullivan, No. 74 by Dick Riseling Economic Impact Report Preliminary Research on the Economic Impact of Gas Drilling in the Catskills Put the Burden of Testing Where it Belongs Gas companies should pay for water testing.	[top]
Catskill Citizens for Safe Energy
CCSE Updates CCSE Update 2/28/2010 CCSE Update 2/13/2010 CCSE Update 1/12/2010 CCSE Update 1/1/2010 CCSE Update 11/12/2009 CCSE Update 11/03/2009 CCSE Update 10/19/2009 CCSE News Update (11/15/2008) CCSE News Update (10/11/2008) News from Albany and suggested legislation. CCSE News Update (9/27/2008) New York City Council holds hearings on gas drilling within the city watershed. CCSE News Update (8/23/2008) A Report on the Meeting with NYS DEC Executive Deputy Commissioner Stuart Gruskin Where are the Gas Companies? (7/24/2008) When landsman and gas companies began snapping up leases in our area last fall, virtually none of us had ever heard of the Marcellus Shale or hydraulic fracturing. None of us could imagine that in just a few years our quiet part of the country might become a scene of intense industrial activity. Stealth Politics and Some Progress (7/1/2008) The gas well spacing bill referred to as A10526/S8169 was passed by the State legislature and signed into law by Governor Paterson. Where We Are... What We Can Do (6/15/2008) Many of us wish gas drilling would just go away. So much of what we value seems threatened by the intensive industrial development that gas extraction will bring.	[top]
The Federal Government
The Oil and Gas Industry: Exempt From Our Most Important Environmental Laws A Spreadsheet Detailing Industry Exemptions from Important Environmental Laws A concise summary from the NRDC. The Oil and Gas Industry’s Exclusions and Exemptions to Major Environmental Statutes The oil and gas industry enjoys sweeping exemptions from provisions in the major federal environmental statutes intended to protect human health and the environment. LOOPHOLES FOR POLLUTERS The oil and gas industry is exempt from key provisions of seven major federal environmental laws -- allowing practices that would otherwise be illegal. By Earthworks, May 16, 2011. Drilling Around the Law Companies that drill for natural gas and oil are skirting federal law and injecting toxic petroleum distillates into thousands of wells, threatening drinking water supplies from Pennsylvania to Wyoming. Federal and state regulators, meanwhile, largely look the other way. A January 2010 report by the Environmental Working Group. Exemption of Oil and Gas Exploration and Production Wastes from Federal Hazardous Waste Regulations UNTESTED WATERS: THE RISE OF HYDRAULIC FRACTURING IN OIL AND GAS PRODUCTION AND THE NEED TO REVISIT REGULATION Fordham Environmental Law Review. By Hannah Wiseman, 2009. Congress Should Close the Halliburton Loophole Hydraulic fracturing should be regulated under the Safe Drinking Water Act Hearing on Oil and Gas Exemptions in Federal Environmental Protections (Hearing Summary) On Wednesday, October 31, 2007, the Committee held an oversight hearing on the applicability of federal environmental and health requirements to onshore oil and gas development. Testimony before the Energy and Mineral Resources Subcommittee Al Appleton testifies that shale gas extraction is inherently dangerous and needs to be strictly regulated. June 4, 2009 The applicability of federal requirements that protect public health and the environment to oil & gas development Congressional testimony by the NRDC's Amy Mall. October 31, 2007. Dr. Theo Colburn's testimony at Hearing on Oil and Gas Exemptions in Federal Environmental Protections October 25, 2007 Letter from Rep. Henry Waxman to EPA Administer Whitman Rep. Waxman protests the Bush Administration's "altering scientific and policy conclusions to accommodate Halliburton's interest" in promoting fracking. October 2002. Safe Drinking Water Act EPA Should Improve Implementation of Requirements on Whether to Regulate Additional Contaminants A report by the General Accounting Office. May, 2011 National Enforcement and Compliance Strategy A confidential draft plan for prioritizing enforcement of energy extraction industries. FY 2010.	[top]
Regulation and Enforcement	[top]
The 2010 EPA Study: Potential Relationships Between Hydraulic Fracturing and Drinking Water Resources The Environmenatl Protection Agency has announced that it will conduct the first comprehensive study of the safety of hydraulic fracturing. Description Charge to Secretary of Energy Advisory Board Natural Gas Subcommittee to Examine Fracking Issues May 5, 2011 letter from Secretary of Energy setting parameters of Obama charge to imrove the safety of shale gas development. EPA Study of Hydraulic Fracturing and Drinking Water Resources 18 Slide presentation by the EPA on its study of impacts of fracturing on drinking water. Posted Jan, 2011 Internal EPA presentation - Natural Gas Plays in Marcellus Shale EPA's Current Hydraulic Fracturing Study (2010-2012) THe EPA's description of the ongoing study. Science in Action: Hydraulic Fracturing Research Study Why is EPA Studying Hydraulic Fracturing? Natural gas plays a key role in our nation’s clean energy future and hydraulic fracturing is one way of accessing this vital resource. A June 29, 2010 handout from the EPA. Clean Water Act Definition of "Waters of the United States" EPA and Army Corps of Engineers draft guidance for determining waters protected by the Clean Water Act--Posted May, 2011 EPA Briefing on Hydrofracking Jan, 2010 briefing doc including introduction and regional perspectives HYDRAULIC FRACTURING RESEARCH STUDY The EPA explains (in very simple terms) why it is studying hydraulic fracturing and drinking water safety. June, 2010. Water: Hydraulic Fracturing The EPA's study of hydraulic fracturing and drinking water. EPA Powerpoint Presentation on Marcellus Shale Wastewater Region 3, Environmental Assessment & Innovation Division, Freshwater Biology Team Examining EPA's Approach to Ground Water Research: The Pavillion Analysis The House Committee on Science, Space and Technology consider the EPA report on water contamination in Pavilion, WY, February 1, 2012. (Video 1 hour 47 minutes.) EPA Presentation on Shale Gas Extraction August 5, 2010 presentation EPA to study hydraulic fracturing, again. This time (hopefully) with science. Yesterday, the U.S. EPA announced that they will spend more than $1.9 million to study the impacts of hydraulic fracturing on water quality and public health. EPA did a similar study in 2004 which concluded not only that fracking constitutes no risk to drinking water, but that no further study of the issue should be conducted. A march 19, 2010 press release from Earthworks. Comments for EPA Science Advisory Board Meeting Submitted by the Tompkins County Legislature, April 8, 2010. Scoping Potential Relationships Between Hydraulic Fracturing and Drinking Water Resources The EPA's "scoping" document. EPA Federal Partner Consultation on the Hydraulic Fracturing Study Summary of a meeting with the Bureau of Land Management, US Geological Survey, US Fish & Wildlife Service, US Forestry Service, US Department of Energy, US Army Corps of Engineers, and the National Park Service. June 7, 2010. Scoping Comments by Riverkeeper and other NGO's Marche 29, 2010 The overall carbon footprint of HVHF and the undocumented assertion that gas is “cleaner” than other fossil fuels. The Tompkins County Leigislature weighs in the EPA's scoping document. April 8, 2010 Input to Initial Design of EPA Research Study The Seneca Lake Pure Waters Association comments on the EPA scoping document. March 27, 2010 CCSE Comments to the EPA CCSE fully supports the recommendation made by Committee Member Dr. Paul Westerhoff that private water wells in rural areas be specifically researched, as EPA usually only covers analysis of public water supplies. Comments on Scope of US EPA Hydraulic Fracturing Research Plan Submitted by physicist Bill Podulka, Ph.D.	[top]
Pseudo-Science: The Flawed 2004 EPA Study of Hydraulic Fracturing Study to Evaluate the Impacts to USDWs by Hydraulic Fracturing of Coalbed Methane Reservoirs The 2004 EPA study that was rewritten by Vice President Dick Cheney's office to conceal the public health risks posed by fracking. EPA Findings on Hydraulic Fracturing Deemed “Unsupportable” When an EPA study concluding that hydraulic fracturing "poses little or no threat" to drinking water supplies was published in 2004,¹ several EPA scientists challenged the study's methodology and questioned the impartiality of the expert panel that reviewed its findings. The Bush administration has strongly supported hydraulic fracturing, an oil extraction technique developed by Halliburton Co., but environmental groups as well as scientists within the EPA have warned that the practice may contaminate drinking water and needs to be regulated. EPA Scientist Blows the Whistle on the 2004 Study Weston Willaim calls the '04 report "scientifically unsound and contrary to the purpose of the law." Legal Environmental Assistance Foundation vs United States Environmental Protection Agency EPA The landmark federal court decision that ordered the EPA to regulate hydraulic fracturing.	[top]
Pending Federal Legislation The FRAC Act HR1084/S587 Will restore hydraulic fracturing to Federal oversight subject to the Safe Drinking Water Act, and require gas companies to disclose the chemicals they use in fracking fluids. Reintroduced March 15, 2011. H.R.553 Endocrine Disruptor Screening Enhancement Act of 2011 To amend the Safe Drinking Water Act regarding an endocrine disruptor screening program. Introduced February 8, 2011. H.R.4025 -- Keep American Natural Gas Here Act The Secretary of the Interior may accept bids on any new oil and gas leases of Federal lands (including submerged lands) only from bidders certifying that all natural gas produced pursuant to such leases shall be offered for sale only in the United States. North America Natural Gas Security and Consumer Protection Act Will suspend approval of liquefied natural gas export terminals until 2025.	[top]
Federal Policy Shale Gas Production Subcommittee Second NInety Day Report The Shale Gas Subcommittee of the Secretary of Energy Advisory Board is charged with identifying measures that can be taken to reduce the environmental impact and to help assure the safety of shale gas production. November 18, 2011. Shale Gas Production Subcommittee Ninety Day Report Report from Department of Energy Energy Advisory Board, 41 pages. August 11, 2011 Public Comments on Hydraulic Fracturing Department of Energy Written Public Comments on Hydraulic Fracturing Received by the Secretary of Energy Advisory Board Subcommittee on Natural Gas published 7/21/2022 15 pages Organizations Respond to Obama's State of the Union References to Natural Gas Organizations representing more than three million members and supporters respond to President Obama's commments on shale gas in the State of the Union address. March 5, 2012. BLUEPRINT FOR A SECURE ENERGY FUTURE March 30, 2011 White House Strategy on Energy Investing in America: Building an Economy That Lasts A January 2012 White House Report. See page 12-13 for comments on natural gas.	[top]
The Delaware River Basin Commission (DRBC)
The Delaware River Basin Commission (DRBC) "A river is more than an amenity, it is a treasure." (U.S. Supreme Court Justice Oliver Wendell Holmes, 1931 Delaware River Diversion Case) General Delaware Riverkeeper and Natural Resources Defense Council DRBC Comments The Delaware River‘s waters are protected under the terms of the Delaware River Compact and the Delaware River Basin Commission‘s Special Protection Waters Program. As such, the DRBC is legally obligated to enact regulations that ensure that no harm is done to the Special Protection Waters of the Delaware River. The Draft Regulations, if promulgated in their current form, will fail to meet this obligation. Delaware Riverkeeper Comments on DRBC Draft Regulations Ap[ril 8, 2011 prepared by Michele C. Adams, Meliora Environmental Design Delaware Riverkeeper Letter to the DRBC re: proposed regulations April 15, 2011 These comments conclude that the Draft Rules do not provide the necessary means for the Commission to fulfill its legal mandate to protect the water resources of the Delaware River Basin during the construction, operation, and decommissioning of natural gas development projects. Natural Gas Drilling in the Delaware River Basin A background document from the Delaware River Basin Commission Comments on DRBC Regulations Prepared by Demicco & Associates Ground Water Resource Expertise for Delaware Riverkeeper April 14, 2011 DRBC Consolidated Admin Hearing on Grandfathered Exploration Wells Daniel Thau Teitelbaum, M.D., PC, for Delaware Riverkeeper Nov. 19, 2010 DRBC Regulations Comments Glenn C. Miller, Ph.D. Consulting Environmental Chemist April 11, 2011 for Delaware Riverkeeper Ecological Review of the DRBC Draft Natural Gas Development Regulations Report by Piotr Parasiewicz, Ph.D. for Delaware Riverkeeper Mgmt of Waste Fluids Comparison of NYS and DRBC Regulations Dr. Ronald E. Biship, Ph.D, CHO for the Delaware Riverkeeper April, 2011 Recommendations to Improve DRBC Regulations Harvey Consulting (Oil & Gas, Environmental, Regulatory Compliance, and Training) for Delaware Riverkeeper April 7, 2011 Report on DRBC Regulations Paul A. Rubin, HydroQuest April 9, 2011 for Delaware Riverkeeper Review and Comments on DRBC Regulations of 12/9/2010 Tom Daniels, Ph.D. April 5, 2011 Prepared for Riverkeeper Network Upper Delaware Council Comments on Draft DRBC Regs Comments submitted March 3, 2011 Delaware River Basin Map Map of the 12,000 square mile basin. Report for the Delaware River Basin Commission on Natural Gas Regulations Dec 9, 2010 to Delaware Riverkeeper Network by Paul A. Rubin Map of the Delaware River Basin Map of the Delaware River Basin showing the Special Protection Waters and the Marcellus Shale. The Delaware River Basin Compact The 1961 compact Between signed by federal government and four states the establishes a plan for allocating and protecting the water resources of the basin. The River Management Plan The 1986 Plan that sets the rules for the Upper Delaware Scenic and Recreational River Corridor. DRBC's Regulatory Implications of Natural Gas Exploration/Production in the Marcellus Shale Formation in the Delaware River Basin Presentation by William J. Muszynski P.E. & Gregory J. Cavallo P.G., July 16, 2008 Delaware River Basin Flow Corrections Excercise Project Review Over All Natural Gas Wells National Parks Superintendent Sean McGuiness calls on the DRBC to exercise jurisdiction over test wells. May 26, 2010 NYC Council Committee on Environmental Protection--Resolution to authorize Council to file an amicaus brief Brief in support of NYS Attorney General's position that the court should enjoin the DRBC from issuing regulations until it prepares environemental impact statement. January 31, 2012. State of NY v US Army Corps of Engineers, et al--Resolution allowing Council of NYC to file amicus Brief in support of the NYS Attorney General's position that the court should enjoin the DRBC from issuing regulations until it prepares a draft environment impact statement. The Draft Drilling Regulations DRAFT NATURAL GAS DEVELOPMENT REGULATIONS The Delaware River Basin Commission's proposed drilling regulations for the Upper Delaware River Basin Commission. Published December 9, 2010. Hinchey, Holt Slam DRBC's Issuance of Draft Regulations on Hydraulic Fracturing Co-chairs of Congressional Delaware River Task Force Say Environmental Impact Studies Must Be Completed First. December 9,2010. Statement of NYC Environmental Protection Commissioner Cas Holloway On the "We are disappointed that the Delaware River Basin Commission has decided to issue draft regulations without first conducting a study of the potential impacts of hydrofracking in a watershed that supplies drinking water for 15 million people. December 9, 2010. Catskill Citizens Press Release on the DRBC's Draft Drilling Regulations Catskill Citizens comments on the draft drilling regs. December 9, 2010. Draft Natural Gas Development Regulations--DRBC Revised Regulations/ Fact Sheet/ DRBC Draft Natural Gas Development Regulations "At-a-Glance" Fact Sheet Dec. 9, 2010 The Need for Scientific Studies A letter from the National Park Service and the Fish and Wildlife Service "Natural gas development has the potential to significantly degrade the natural habitat and water quality of teh Delaware River Basin." Sent to the DRBC on June 25, 2010. Hinchey Calls on Delaware River Basin Commission to Conduct Cumulative Impact Study Hinchey Calls on Delaware River Basin Commission to Conduct Cumulative Impact Study Before Allowing Natural Gas Extraction Water Withdrawals. April 29, 2010 Congressman Hinchey's letter to ACE General DeLuca Congressman Maurice Hinchey questions the misguided vote by the Army Core of Engineers to permit drilling in the Deaware River Basin without first conducting a cumulative impact study. September 30, 2010 Army Corps emerges as rogue agency on gas drilling. A Riverkeeper press release assails the ACE. October 4, 2010 Halt on Hydro Drilling Regualtions until Completion of Scientific Studies The Philadelphia City Council calls on the DRBC to put the "horse of sceince before the cart of policy. October 14, 2010. Catskill Citizens Letter to Chief of Engineers General Van Antwerp "Despite the obvious inherent dangers associated with hydraulic fracturing, the lack of satisfactory solutions to problems such as wastewater disposal, the dearth of fundamental scientific data, the lack of a cumulative impact study and the urgent appeals of the citizens of New York City and Philadelphia, the Army Corps of Engineers, as well as several other directors of the DRBC, seem prepared to permit drilling in the Delaware Basin." November 10, 2010. New York City Mayor Michael Blomberg's letter to the DRBC "Any decisions must be based on scientific reviews". NOvember 17, 2010. The Stone Energy Water Withdrawal Docket DOCKET NO. D-2009-13-1 Stone Energy's application to take 7000,000 gallons a day from the Special Proteciton waters of the Lackawaxen River. Comments by Catskill Citizens for Safe Energy Re: Docket D-2009-13-1 "It would be irresponsible for the Delaware River Basin Commission to approve the Stone Energy Docket D-2009-13-1 (or any other water withdrawal dockets that would facilitate hydraulic fracturing) at this time. The scientific data necessary to make an informed decision is lacking, and regulatory bodies at every level of government are still struggling to figure out how to safely regulate unconventional shale gas extraction." CCSE comments on the Stone Energy water withdrawal docket. April 12, 2010.	[top]
The Susquehanna River Basin Commission (SRBC)
The Susquehanna River Basin Commission (SRBC) Susquehanna River Basin Commission comments on Rulemaking Proposal Aug 23, 2011 Letter signed 40 organizations and businesses The SRBC Compact The 1968 document that controls the use of water from the Susquehanna River Basin Commisssion. Signed by the governors of New York, Pennsylvania and Maryland and teh US Department of the Interior.	[top]
Pennsylvania
PA Regulations Pennsylvania presentation - Water in the Oil and Gas Industry SAFE DRINKING WATER Pennsylania Code regarding safe drinking water Risky Business: An Analysis of Marcellus Shale Gas Drilling Violations in Pennsylvania 2008-2011 Erika Staaf, PennEnvironment Research & Policy Center, February 2012. Pa. PUC Administrative Law Judge Nixes Public Utility Status for Midstream Operators December 2010 (No. 1) Marcellus Shale Alert In a closely-watched proceeding before the Pennsylvania Public Utility Commission (“Pa. PUC”) that—potentially—promises to determine the means by which natural gas extracted from the Marcellus Shale is brought to market, an Administrative Law Judge (“ALJ”) has ruled that natural gas gathering, treating and processing—or “midstream services”—are not services offered “to or for the public” within the meaning of the Public Utility Code and, consequently, midstream operators are not entitled to a certificate of public convenience that would allow them to operate as public utilities. The Case for a Moratorium on Drilling the Marcellus Shale in PA by Stephen Cleghorn An organic farmer in western PA makes the case for a moratorium on gas extraction in the Marcellus Shale. December 5, 2011. EPA Letter The Pa DEP defends responds to criticism from the EPA. Spring 2011. Impacts of Marcellus Shale Development on Municipal Governments in Susquehanna and Washington Counties, 2010 Penn State Cooperative Extension by Miachel Jacobson and Timothy W. Kelsey. 2011 PA Preemption Decision The Commonwealth Court of Pennsylvania in Penneco Oil Company, Inc. v. The County of Fayette, Pennsylvania, recently affirmed a lower court decision holding that a local zoning ordinance was not preempted by the state's Oil and Gas Act	[top]
PA Drilling Maps/Permits & Rig Activity Pennsylvania survey - South Fork Tenmile Creek PA DEP Cause and Effect Survey of South Fork tenmile Creek. February 2009. Shale Play Natural Gas Drilling In Pennsylvania Use this tool to learn which operators are drilling, and where. Find gas-producing wells in your county or municipality — and see whether the drillers have been cited for violating state environmental regulations. PA DEP Marcellus Shale Well Development Summary in Pennsylvania Natural Gas Development Maps The Natural Gas Wells Mapper is an ongoing collaborative effort of the entire community of Natural Gas Forum for landowner members 2010 PERMIT & RIG ACTIVITY REPORT The data displayed in the following PA DEP table is the drilling commence date or "spud date" reported by the operator to the oil & gas inspector for the County. This information is compiled on a weekly basis. It is posted to this page by the following Monday. Reporting in this manner began November 1, 1998. 2011 PERMIT & RIG ACTIVITY REPORT The data displayed in the following PA DEP table is the drilling commence date or "spud date" reported by the operator to the oil & gas inspector for the County. This information is compiled on a weekly basis. It is posted to this page by the following Monday. Reporting in this manner began November 1, 1998. PA Energy Impacts Maps of Drilling` The Nature Conservancy April, 2011	[top]
Pending PA Legislation Senate Bill 447 Would impose "forced pooling" on landowners who don't want to lease. The threat of forced pooling would also give gas companies an unfair advantage in negotiating with landowners who do want to lease.	[top]
PA's Non-existent Severence Tax Representation without Taxation How Natural Gas Producers Escape Taxes in PA April 27, 2011 Report from PA Budget and Policy Center Unintended Consequences: Proposed Tax Breaks for Natural Gas Industry Are Bad Deal for Pennsylvanians As the severance tax issue comes to a head, natural gas companies are trying to shape the proposal by securing exemptions to the tax. Michael Wood, Research Director, Pennsylvania Budget and Policy Center. June 24, 2010. Benchmarks for Assessing the Potential Impact of a Natural Gas Severance Tax A Penn State study by Rose M. Baker and David L. Passmore. September 2010.	[top]
Sustainable Energy
Resources Toward a Sustainable Future for the U.S. Power Sector: Beyond Business as Usual 2011 Civil Society Institute Nov 16, 2011 Providing all global energy with wind, water, and solar power, Part I: The world can rely entirelyon sustainable energy in twenty to forty years. By Mark Z. Jacobson,Mark A. Delucchi. Nov, 2010 Fossil Fuels vs. Renewables: The Key Argument that Environmentalists are Missing Sierra Atlantic Winter 2011 article by Kurt Cobb "No one knows the future. But making public policy based on industry hype could turn out to be disatrous." Decoupling Natural Resource Use an Environmental Impacts from Economic Growth International Resource Panel from the United Natons Environment Program report March 31, 2011	[top]
Video
Entertainment SPECTRA It's Horrible Another frack parody for Catskill Citizens http://www.catskillcitizens.org/. This time it's a parody of James Blunt's "You're Beautiful" by Brock Lady. Posted Aug 9, 2011. Nearly 4 minutes. The Colbert Report Anti-Frack Attack July 12, 2011 5:33 minutes. The Fracking Song--My Water's On Fire Tonight 2.42 minute video explain the fracking process posted May 12, 2011 I Love My NY Water Posted Jun 6, 2011 This commercial is about New York STATE water! Ruffalo is fishing up in the Catskills. It's not for NYC only - it's for everyone who's affected. That's also why the reference to more than 15 million people who depend on the Delaware River, as well as the Susquehanna and? all the other smaller watersheds throughout the state. The Gasman Brock Lady's new music video on Economic impacts of fracking featuring Josh Fox and Craig and Julie Sautner. Jan 25, 2011. Just over 3 minutes. Frack Off Now! Cartoon bears talk fracking on the Marcellus. July 10, 2010. Two minutes. Frack you 3:42 minutes Cee Lo Green parody. Posted May 2, 2011 video by Brock Lady A Natural Gas Fracking Land Lease Tale by jkosmer How gas drilling leases and gas operations affect your neighborhood, you and your neighbors. 6 minutes. 1-15-2011 Frack Alphabet by Kris Kitko & Friends Jan 3, 2011 one and a half minute video. Children singing their ABC's with the chemicals including in fracking fluid. Fracking in the Delaware River Basin The DRBC has issued draft regualtions to permit fracking in the Delaware River Basin, Fifteen million people rely on the basin for clean drinking water. This 2 minute video highlights concerns raised by Catskill Citizens for Safe Energy. Jan 6, 2011. The Water Buffalo Song Jan 145, 2011 3 minute video. Written & Performed by Steve Goode Copyright 2011 On the lighter side... A song about gas drilling and leasing land. Vaudevillains New Years Brigade performing in the 2011 Mummers Parade - the Philly Phantasy Phorest Jan 1, 2011 Mummer's Parade in Philadelphia...anti-fracking performance. Fracking Wonderland--A 4 Minute Holiday Video from CCSE Special appearance by our friend Mark Ruffalo. Dec, 2010 Investing in E and P This 2 minute extranormal video created on 12/29/2010 presents information about the fiction of drilling earnings and profits. Please Mr. President--No Frickin' Frackin Here's a misical video that will make you WANT to take action to stop this freakin' frakin' destruction of our water, air, land and lives. Two Minutes. Dec, 2010. Fracking Shale In New York This 4 minute xtranormal video dated 11/23/2010 discusses political and lobbying implications of drilling including severance tax, Cuomo, and jobs. Encourages political action. The Green Washing Avenger - Frack Gas Catskill Mountainkeeper 2 minute video video November 25, 2010 Founding Fathers Fight Gas Drilling and Fracking Abuses! Aug. 22, 2010; Short 1 minute animated video by slingshotarkansas. Hydrofracking Wait, Don't Touch the Water by Wendy Woods Aug, 2010 video of Wendy Woods singing "Wait, Don't Touch the Water" a 4 minute video. Go Frack Yourself A three minute video and song written by Marc Black for a North Branch, NY event telling the drilling companies to "go home." Natural Gas Company Propaganda is BULL S*!T! The Ironic News Report Calls Them Out! The fossil fuel industry has left out a few details in their informational video about the process of drilling for natural gas. Comedian Julianna Forlano fills in the gaps in this special edition of The Ironic News Report. October 8, 2011 (7 minutes).	[top]
Technical Discussions on Drilling Dr. Conrad Volz on the WVSA and Frack Water Treatment Facilities 35 minute video dated 3/15/2011 Dan Volz just sampled the outflow of a plant dedicated to treating gas waste fluids, and they found EXTREMELY high levels of barium, bromides, strontium, benzene, 2-BE, chlorides and magnesium -- all way over the plant's permit levels (and some of them weren't permitted to be discharged at all). Operators also failed to inform any state officials about the discharges. Dr. Jannette Barth - the Economic Impact of Gas Drilling in the Marcellus Shale June 3, 2011, Newfield, NY. The Newfield group PAUSE (People Against Unsafe Sources of Energy)hosts Dr. Barth to discuss economic impact of gas drilling. 45 minutes Gasland Trailer 2010 GASLAND - (2010) Directed by Josh Fox. Winner of Special Jury Prize - Best US Documentary Feature - Sundance 2010. Screening at Cannes 2010. May 5, 2010 2:47 minute video Is Your Water at Risk from Fracking? Food and Water Watch 2:26 minute video dated 2/15/11 The Negatives of Gas Drilling by Professor Tony Ingraffea of Cornell U. Feb 23, 2011 uploaded to You Tube. 9:24 minute video of Ingraffea speaking to audience at SUNY-Cortland. Frack Truck Convoys Jeffrey M. reynolds and James "Chip" Northrup Posted Jan, 2011 Slide presentation with audio on the impact of trucking from the fracking process on communities. Fracking Shale Gas Industrialization 20 minute video...Chip Northrup What a New York town Should Do? James Northrup James (Chip) Northrup, former gas/oil industry executive discusses some of the major problems associated with hydraulic fracturing in the fractured geology of New York State. Produced by Sustainable Otsego. Twenty-seven minutes. Summer 2010. Legal Rights of Local Governments: Home Rule vs. DEC's Regulatory System - Part 1 Jan 27, 2011 Video Hellen Slottje, Senior Attory at The Community Environmental Defense Council. Understanding Gas Drilling Economic Development and Community Impacts Aug 19, 2010 Sullivan County, NY Forum As a new industrial activity, gas drilling will inevitably have impacts on the economies and character of local communities. This session will explore impacts by examining a regional and national perspective Understanding Gas Drilling Environmental and Health Concerns July 15, 2010 Sullivan County, NY Forum This session will examine potential health and environmental risks associated with gas drilling and hy-draulic fracturing and methods to prevent or mitigate these risks. Understanding Gas Drilling Poperty and Landowner Issues June 29, 2010 Sullivan County, NY Forum Understanding leases, land use and property rights of lease-holders, neighbors and municipalities. Briefing on the Global Shale Gas Initiative Conference by David L. Goldwyn, Special Envoy for International Energy Affairs This is a 25 minute video dated August 24, 2010/ From the introductory remarks..."The U.S. shale gas phenomenon has transformed global energy markets." Contaminants in Brine Water going into regional creeks and streams from sewage plants 9:29 minute video dated 3/14/2010; Dr. Conrad Volz U. of Pittsburgh Fracking Shale In New York This four minute video discusses the current state of fracking in NY State. Jane E. Clougherty, Addressing combined health effects of air pollution and social stressors in communities impacted by natural gas drilling 11/19/2010 University of Pittsburgh, Graduate School of Public Health Spectra Energy Watch--Where eminent doman meets grassroots & social media Posted 3/12/2011 short video about Bedford County, PA The hidden cost of the US Hydraulic fracturing A 14 minute video from 11-30-2010 Ecologist article. Benzene Threat--NCTCA 091610 speaker Kirk Claunch .flv Mr. Claunch has broad experience in all areas of personal injury law. He has an extensive background in helping people suffering from cancers associated with exposure to toxic chemicals and substances. This is a 13 minute videa Shaleshock Media 29 videos dates from 11/19/2009 to present covering a wide range of natural gas drilling issues including: 1. Safer Drilling--What Would it Look Like 2. Fracking & Environmental Human Rights 3. Challenges with the Prospect of Industrialization of our Rural Landscape. 4. Just Say No! Using Local Land Use Control to Prohibit Industrialization 5. Living with Contaminated Water Well Development of Natural Gas from Shales: Some Myths and Realities, May 10, 2011 A presentation by Cornell Professor Dr. Anthony Ingraffea. Dr. Ingraffea's presentation evaluates myth and facts concerning some of the more notable issues involved in development of unconventional natural gas wells in shale formations. The presentation was sponsored by Penn State Eco-Action and the Sierra Club Moshannon Group. 2 hour presentation. Centre County's Government and Educational Network Community socio-economic impacts of natural gas development 12 minute video from the Pittsburgh Oil & Gas Summit Nov, 2010 Fracking: Things Find a Way 2 minute video from Earthjustice Health impacts from drilling, fracking, waste pits and gas production 13 minute video from the Pittsburgh Oil & Gas Summit, Nov., 2010 Hyrofracking: The Pressure To Drill NY1 30 minute video dated 12/15/2010 In this half-hour special, NY1 examines the issues behind the controversial natural gas drilling process known as hydrofracking. Natural Gas Drilling: A Discussion at Keuka College Panelists included Dr. Scott Cline and Dr. Tony Ingraffea. Keuka College, July 26, 2011 (7:30)	[top]
Living with Fracking Can You Do This With Your Tap Water? A 16 second video--worth it~! Illegal Dumping of Fracking Fluid Caught this guy dumping Frac Fluid on Rt 19 approximately 4 miles north of Washington, PA. . This was Sunday morning around 9:39 am on the 5th of December 2010. Shale Gas Flares Five Cabot gas wells on a single pad have been flaring day and night since April 20 in Springville PA to "get rid of impurities in the gas." There are homes within 300-600 ft of the flaring wells. One minute video--4/28/2011 Shale Gas Flares Five Cabot gas wells on a single pad have been flaring day and night since April 20 in Springville PA to "get rid of impurities in the gas." There are homes within 300-600 ft of the flaring wells. One minute video--4/28/2011 The Wall Street Journal: Gas Rush Divides Pennsylvania Town Drill rigs sprouting up on dairy farms are transforming the once-quiet community of Bradford County, Pa. Four minutes. December 14, 2010 . CHEC Marcellus Shale Gas Extraction Documentary with the Carrs on 6/2/2010 Part 2 CHEC Marcellus Shale Gas Extraction Documentary with the Carrs on 6/2/2010 Part 3 8 minute interview CHEC Marcellus Shale Gas Extraction Documentary with the Carrs on 7/14/2010 Part 1 The Carrs talk about the impacts of Marcellus Shale gas drilling in their community. CHEC Marcellus Shale Gas Extraction Documentary with the Carrs on 7/14/2010 Part 4 7 minute interview Frack Sand - COUGH! A June, 2010 4 minute video from Pittsburgh. Neighbors choking on frack sand in Pittsburgh A June, 2010 4 minute video showing what it's like living next to a well pad. Oh the sand! Oh the noise! Oh the pollution! Compressor station on Button Rd, Dimock, PA as seen with FLIR 1.26 minute video. None of these emissions are visible to the naked eye. Compressor station on Button Rd, Dimock, PA as seen with FLIR 1.26 minute video. None of these emissions are visible to the naked eye. Marcellus Frac Job Close up of a drilling pad. Oh the noise! One minute. Jan, 2010 Trailer Talk Julie and Craig Sautner, What the Frack? 7-31-10 Trailer Talk (Sabrina Artel hosting) in a 9 minute video the Messengers, Julie and Craig Sautner from Carter Road in Dimock, PA. join Trailer Talk to speak about living in the gas fields at the Catskill Mountainkeeper Barnfest in Beaverkill, N.Y. Where are their rights when they have lost their water, their rural community and much more at hands of the oil and gas companies that are Fracking for Natural Gas in Susquehanna County. Barnett Shale: An Aerial View A seven minute view of drilling in Texas. June 6, 2009. Barnett Shale: Drilling companies are spreading toxic waste on farmland Three minutes. June 4, 2009. Gas Exploitation Angers Residents of Fort Worth, TX Dead animals, airborne contaminents, and the inability of the landowner's to control access to their property once a lease is signed. Three and a half minutes. Impact of Drilling on PA Resident Stephanie Hallowich of Washington County, PA describes what it's like living next door to four natural gas drilling wells, a compressor station, and natural gas processing facility. Private Home and Water Well Reportedly Impacted by Hydrofracking Near Andover & Independence, NY 9:58 minute video Posted by Toxic Targeting on Apr 19, 2010 BRADFORD COUNTY USA: Here comes our future April 19, 2011 video by Dissenta andBradford County PA, 90 miles west of the Delaware River Basin, shows us the face of shale gas drilling's industrialization in ruined air and drinking water along with huge frack trucks everywhere out of scale with small towns... Water contaminated by Devon Energy hydraulic fracturing The gray stuff is bentonite which is used in hydraulic fracturing. Three minutes. Double Secret Hop Bottom Compressor Tour f you don't have compressors in your area, here's a video tour to acquaint you. Thanks to videographer Scott Cannon for posting this video on You Tube	[top]
News & Interviews Water Well Erupts with Methane Video shot in Franklin Township, Susquehanna County, PA. March 12, 2012. Fracking Hell: The Untold Story Link TV; nearly 18 minutes. Investigative Report by Earth Focus. Bradford County, PA is featured. Posted Jan 31, 2011 Mayor Tillman vs. Governor Ridge 2-Minute Video Highlights Gas Industry Credibility Proble Dated Jan 6, 2011. Pt2-Fracking Day of Action Rally in Albany 4/11/11 36 minute April 11, 2011 Albany Rally RFK, Jr.: Oil Industry Trying to Silence The new documentary film Gasland has been nominated for an Academy Award, and the oil and gas industries are working around the clock to prevent the film from winning an award. Almost 9 minute interview of Josh Fox by RFK, Jr. on radio. Posted 2/2011 Part 1 of 3 part interview. RFK, Jr.: Oil Industry Trying to Silence "Gasland" Director - PT. 2/3 12 minute interview--Part 2 of 3 part interview RFK, Jr.: Oil Industry Trying to Silence "Gasland" Director - PT. 3/3 10 minute interview--RFK, Jr. and Josh Fox Part 3 of 3 part interview The Natural Gas Industry's Record By Delaware Riverkeeper, January 12, 2012. The Ecologist Investigates the US Gas Drilling Boom This is a 14 minute video focusing on the natural gas drilling in Bradford County, PA and includes conversations with Dr. Tony Ingraffea from Cornell University and James Northrup. Daily Show: Exclusive - T. Boone Pickens Extended Interview Jan. 27, 2011 22 Minutes In this complete, unedited interview, T. Boone Pickens wants to get America off of foreign oil with the Pickens Plan. Pro-natural gas drilling interview. Dylan Ratigan interviews Josh Fox This MSNBC interview aired 11/5/2010 and lasts just over 7 minutes. Interview with Victoria Lesser Produced by the Eddie Adams Workshop. Oct. 2010. NBC News: Interview with EPA Administrator Lisa Jackson The EPA study on hydrualic fracturing and drinking water safety. Fall 2010. Our Planet Series on NBC News--Nov 18, 2010 Three minute video discusses fracking process. PA DEP Secretary interviewed. Shows CCSE "no frack" sign. Split Estate movie highlighted. Dimock, PA also features. Suatner's interviewed. Shale Gas Drilling: Pros & Cons on 60 Minutes 11/14/2010 While some complain that extracting natural gas from shale rock formations is tainting their water supply, others who have allowed drilling on their property are getting wealthy. Lesley Stahl reports. The Marcellus Shale: The Politics of Gas Peter Mantius' DC Bureau’s documentary “The Marcellus Shale: The Politics of Gas” Eighteen minutes. July 20, 2010. Will pipeline Alleviate Truck Traffic? WNEP News video Some people in Lycoming County are upset over construction of a water pipeline for use by the gas drilling industry. MSNBC: The Rachel Maddow Show: Mark Rufallo October 4, 2010. Chip Northrup at the Citizens for Healthy Communities March 31, 2012 Chip Northrup discusses how gas wells can leak and other problems with the fracking process at Citizens for a Healthy Community's March 31, 2012 public forum. (30 minutes.) Inergy's Plans for the Finger Lakes Interview with Inergy's CEO as he explains his plans for our Finger Lakes and gas storage facility. 2 minutes posted 3/23/2011 PBS Need to Know: The price of gas Some Wyoming residents believe fracking is contaminating their water and damaging their health. In a joint productioh with ProPublica. Aug 27, 2010. Democracy Now: EPA Public Hearings on the Impact of Hydraulic Fracturing on Drinking Water Safety Interviews with director Josh Fox and journalist Abrahm Lustgarten. September 14, 2010. Trailer Talk Mark Ruffalo Drilling Isn't Safe 6-25-10 Trailer Talk hosted by Sabrina Artel--interviews Mark Ruffalo in this 8 minute video. ABC News: Natural Gas Drilling Impacts Health Three minutes. June 13, 2010. Demcracy Now!: Congress to Investigate Safety of Natural Gas Drilling Practice Known as Hydraulic Fracturing interview Josh Fox, Lisa Bracken and Joe Levine. February 23, 2010. Toll Of Oil Drilling Felt In Peru's Amazon Basin An unusually revealing story on NPR Morning Edition on June 22, 2010 on the terrible chronic diseases suffered by the Achuar people of Peru whose streams, rivers and ground water have been poisoned by oil, lead and cadmium from oil drilling on their lands. 7 Minutes in duration Vanity Fair Interviews Northeastern PA Residents Impacted by Drilling June 22, 2010--In this 11 minute video, Christopher Batement travels to Northeastern PA including Dimock and interviews citizens impacted by natural gas drilling. From Fracking to Freedom Riders, Documentaries at Sundance Take on Wide Range of Human Rights & Social Justice Issues Democracy Now: 1-29-2010 As we broadcast from the Sundance Film Festival in Park City, we look at its documentary film program that focuses on stories of human rights, social justice, civil liberties and freedom of expression. Keith Olbermann Interviews Josh Fox Re: Fracking and Gasland In this nearly six minute video, Keith Olbermann and Josh Fox review the dangers of hydraulic fracturing. NBC NIghtly News Reports on PA Conducting Surveilance of Environmental Groups This 2.51 minute video covers the PA Homeland Security keeping tabs on peaceful groups. Concern was raised about the information State government is collecting about its citizens. Senator Greg Ball's Public Hearing on Public Hearing- Hydraulic Fracturing Katonah, NY Tuesday August 23, 2011 3:37 hours Costing The Earth--Deepwater drilling for oil and gas is dangerous. Can we find our supplies closer to home? This 30 minute audio from from BBC Radio interviews Cheasapeake Gas and PA residents. Actor Mark Ruffalo Speaks Out Against Fracking to PBS--7 Minute Video Actor Mark Ruffalo has become an outspoken opponent of hydraulic fracturing, or fracking, a controversial method of extracting natural gas that has divided citizens of upstate New York, where he lives. NY1's Inside City Hall:: Mark Ruffalo Eleven minutes. Summer 2010. RNN Fracking Debate: Dollar$ and Sense of Hydrofracking Natural gas industry insiders go head-to-head with some of their toughest opponents on the dollars and sense of hydrofracking. Produced by RNN, February 16, 2012. (5 minutes.) Natural Gas Exxposed Two videos each one minute long. ..Water Defense Video...If we don't end America's growing addiction to natural gas, the gas industry will ruin our communities, our health and our climate. ExxonMobil, Chesapeake Energy and Range Resources have hundreds of millions of dollars to spend lobbying Congress, influencing elections and buying airtime for their slanted advertisements. To stop them, we'll need to work together. Natural Gas Exxposed is a people-powered education campaign that relies on your support to get the word out. Springville, Pa. - Flaring at Cabot Well Site One minute video. Posted Apr 9, 2012 Heitzenroder Site has two , very noisy flares. Going on 24/7. Can be heard over 3 miles away. Mark Ruffalo on the Colbert Report March 30, 2012. (7 minutes). MARK RUFFALO SPEAKS OUT TO SAVE OUR WATER FROM FRACKING Dec 27, 2011 (1:31) DEP Releases Video of Gas Leak at Wells 2:24 minutes from WBRE News DIMOCK TOWNSHIP, SUSQUEHANNA COUNTY- One clip of video shows a well head surrounded by a continuous ring of bubbles. Another reveals a rolling boil of methane bubbles. Both versions, according to state officials, indicate problems with drilling procedures. Rick Santorum on Fracking January 16, 2012. (2-1/2 minutes) An Investigation Into the Science of Fracking Fracking Pennsylvania, featuring Cabot's George Stark who pretends that the chemical smell on the schoolyard grounds in Montrose, PA is methane - which is odorless! Produced by RNN, February 8, 2012. Ban Fracking Rally at St John the Divine Speakers urging citizen action to prevent hydraulic fracturing in New York. February 25, 2012. GRITtv interview with Sabrina Artel, Josh Fox, Kate Sindig, Deborah Goldberg Posted 3/25/2011 28 Minutes Mayor Jerramiah T. Healy makes his opening remarks during the dais discussion after the screening of GASLAND at Loew's Jersey Theatre by NO Gas Pipeline on November 6, 2010. Mayor Healy Jesey City No Gas Pipeline- Saftey must come before profits, people must be seen as more important than industry. RNN Fracking Debate: Can We Frack Safely? Feb 16, 2012 10 minute video. See natural gas industry insiders go head-to-head with some of their strongest opponents in a debate over Hydrofracking. They'll argue everything from drilling well to franking fluid and science behind lighting your kitchen sink on fire. RNN Fracking Debate: Fracture engineer Says What's Wrong with Hydrofracking 9 Minute 40 second video posted Feb 13, 2012. Dr. Anthony Ingraffea interviewed. Rebecca Roter, leased landowner says its too late for PA not for NY. RNN Fracking Debate: Gasland's Josh Fox on Dimock, Fracking, and His Arrest Feb 14, 2012 8 minutes video. It's been two weeks since Josh Fox's arrest on Captiol Hill, when he tried to film a subcommittee hearing on hydrofracking. The footage was supposed to be part of Fox's new film, Gasland II. The hearing was lead by Andy Harris of Maryland, a Republican and vocal proponent of fracking. It's been reported that Harris denied Fox's film request and ordered the arrest. RNN Fracking Debate: Hydrofracking and the Frackonomy. 12 Minute video Posted Feb 15, 2012 In the three short years that drilling rigs, franking sites and gas well pads have been popping up in the lush countryside...the gas rush propelled the city from stagnant to the seventh fastest growing economy in the nation. RNN Fracking Debate: The Economics of Fracking Two economists from both sides of the fracking debate duke it out. Jannette Barth, former chief MTA economist goes head-to-head with Energy in Depth's Campaign Director, Tom Shepstone. Feb 15, 2012, 15 minute video RNN Fracking Debate: Wrap Up Aired February 16, 2012. (7 minutes.) Mark Ruffalo Talks About Fracking In NY 1.30 minute video posted by Green/Environment May 8, 2011 Shaleshock Media: Politics in the Marcellus Shale Apr 19, 2011 1 hours Cornell U.--Lance Simmens, Special Ass't to former PA Gov. Ed Rendell. Josh Fox assists in the discussion. Sandra Steingraber on the Health Crisis Surrounding Natural Gas Extraction Democracy Now 5/27/2011 Video 6 minute video...Yesterday, New York state lawmakers held a hearing on the health impacts of fracking, an issue that until now has received little media attention. We talk with Sandra Steingraber, a biologist who testified at the hearing. WVIA State of PA - John H. Quigley, Jordan Yeager, Jeff Zimmerman, Will NEPA Get It Right This Time? May 28, 2011 posting by GADCLuzerneCounty 54:41 minutes Will NEPA Get It Right This Time? Is northeastern Pennsylvania's coal history repeating itself with the natural gas industry?	[top]
Call to Action Frack this glass of water! 2 minute video by Dissenta...Fracking had to be exempted from the Safe Drinking Water Act because it threatens drinking water. "Fracking" as a term in popular usage refers to all aspects of shale gas drilling, not just hydraulic… Don't Frack Me, Bro! Do you think Hydrofracking will be good for your community? THINK AGAIN! This process has destroyed the environment of EVERY place where it's been done. Visit http://NYRAD.org/localgroups.html and find a group near you. GET INVOLVED! StandUpNewYork.org 3 minute video on the Dangers of Fracking Independently developed by Agit-Pop and available at www.StandUpNewYork.org, the 3 minute movie is geared to a general, fracking-innocent audience. It provides a sense of place/what's at stake, a brief "fracking for dummies" animation narrated by "Tony Hayward" and a connection between the uncertainties of fracking in NY to how similar uncertainties played out in the Gulf, leading up to a challenge "Stand Up!" VIDEO: ‘Gasland’ Director Josh Fox Issues Call to Action "Gasland' Director Josh Fox calls for Fracktivists everywhere to join the Tar Sands Action in Washington DC with this moving video. (4:39) Drill Baby Drill: Stop the Bribes/ Demand Clean Energy This two minute video highlights some political figures who supported drilling and accepted lobbying monies from the oil and gas industry.	[top]
Pipelines
Pipelines Air Quality Problems of Pipelines and Compressor Stations in Shale Gas Production from www.un-naturalgas.org Notice of Proposed Safety Order to Columbia Gas Transmission, LLC regarding Millennium Pipeline "...it appears that conditions exist on the section of the Millennium Pipeline running from Corning to Ramapo, NY ...that pose a pipeline integrity risk to public safety, property or the environment." From USDOT dated 7/6/2011 Knowing and Protecting Your Rights When an Interstate Gas Pipeline Comes to Your Community Prepared by the law offices of Carolyn Elefant. May 17, 2010. 25 pp A Legal and Practical Guide for States, Local Government Units, Non-Governmental Organizations and Landowners On How the FERC Pipeline Certification Process Works and How You Can Participate NYS Public Service commission Regulations on Gas Transmission Links available to Process Guide, Flow Chart, the regulations for fuel gas transmission lines ten or more miles and less than ten miles, and case information. FERC's Environmental Review Process PROJECT UPDATE FOR THE NEW JERSEY- NEW YORK EXPANSION PROJECT (November 2010) Provides update on FERC environmental review of the pending application to construct and operate the New Jersey-New York Expansion Project, explain our review process, identify the issues gathered during the scoping process, and give you an idea of what’s next in the process. New Jersey-New York Expansion Project – Texas Eastern-Algonquin-Spectra Energy, The Bloomberg Administration expresses "strong support" for the proposed Texas Eastern/Algonquin/Spectra Energy Corporation Project (“Spectra Project”). Overview: Pipeline Accounting and Leak Detection by Mass Balance, Theory and Hardward Implementation Arnold E. Liu, Quantum Dynamics, Inc.	[top]