Recent Gas Drilling News (06-04-12 11:59PM EDT)
Brendan O'Connor
See also http://sustainableotsego.org/recent-gas-drilling-news
Recent Gas Drilling News (06-04-12 11:59PM EDT)
NY, PA, NJ, OH, & WV
“Municipal Officials Form Group, Mail Cuomo on Hydrofracking: “…We’ve already seen the anti-hydrofracking activists join forces to form one coalition against the gas extraction process. Now, a group of municipal officials have done the same. A letter signed by (at this moment) 283 elected officials from 34 New York counties was delivered to Gov. Andrew Cuomo’s office today, according to the new coalition—Elected Officials to Protect New York…” ” (The Jounal News) (New York)- http://statepolitics.lohudblogs.com/2012/06/04/municipal-officials-form-group-mail-cuomo-on-hydrofracking/
“Elected Officials Talk Fracking Moratorium: “…More than 280 local government officials have signed on to a petition in favor of continuing the ban on high-volume hydraulic fracturing in New York State. They say the DEC’s fracking study did not answer enough questions, and they’d like more information before a final decision is made. Pulteney Town Supervisor Jane Russell and Tompkins County Legislature chair Martha Robertson explain their concerns…” ” (Video Capitol Tonight/YNN) (New York)- http://www.capitaltonight.com/2012/06/elected-officials-talk-fracking-moratorium/
“SUNY Fredonia Shale Institute a Family Affair?: “…The enigmatic SUNY Fredonia Shale Resources Institute pulled its website down last month after being exposed as a receptacle for gas industry money filtered through the secretive Fredonia College Foundation of the State University of New York, Inc. You can see a screen shot of what used to be, at the bottom of this page. Now it appears the institute’s leadership is, or was, very tight, indeed…” ” (Artvoice Daily) (New York)- http://blogs.artvoice.com/avdaily/2012/06/04/suny-fredonia-shale-institute-a-family-affair/
“Poll Surveys Residents on Gas Drilling: “…(WBNG Binghamton) An annual survey done by Cornell University asks for New Yorkers’ feelings about natural gas drilling. Cornell University’s Empire State poll, using survey information from the past three years, finds that 52 % of New Yorkers believe the risk of contaminating drinking water outweighs any revenues that would come from natural gas drilling…” ” (Video, WBNG Binghamton) (New York)- http://www.wbng.com/news/local/Poll-Surveys-Residents-on-Gas-Drilling-157061025.html
“By a rate of nearly 2 to 1, New Yorkers think the risks of fracking outweigh potential revenues” (National Resources Defense Council)- http://switchboard.nrdc.org/blogs/ksinding/by_a_rate_of_nearly_2_to_1_new.html
“Anti-frackers protest at Senate offices: “…Opponents of hydraulic fracturing, or “hydrofracking,” last week protested in front of the New York State Department of Health and district offices of five Republican state senators, calling for measures to protect New Yorkers from the potential dangers associated with natural gas drilling…” ” (Legislative Gazette) (New York)- http://www.legislativegazette.com/Articles-Top-Stories-c-2012-06-04-81782.113122-Antifrackers-protest-at-Senate-offices.html
“Constitution Pipeline Flyover: “…Virtual flyover of the preliminary pipeline route using Google Earth. All pipeline routing should be considered preliminary and subject to change…” ” (Consitution Pipeline via YouTube)- http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QCicTAO9ew4
“Constitution Pipeline Introduction: “…Project Manager Matthew Swift talks about the Constitution Pipeline project…” ” (Consitution Pipeline via YouTube)- http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JSihVkrYyMI
“One Fracking Mess After Another: “…Dr. Robert Meyers has put together a nice compendium of reports and studies that help debunk the notion that fracking shale gas wells is an envrionmentally benign exercise. When we are now learning that it is a remarkably effective way to contaminate groundwater and poison the air. His site addresses the cover-ups of the industry’s problems – including the political payoffs and propaganda used by fracking shills…” ” (No Fracking Way)- http://blog.shaleshockmedia.org/2012/06/04/one-fracking-mess-after-another/
“Sandra Steingraber: Safe Hydrofracking Is the New Jumbo Shrimp: “…In other words, with an insistence on best practices, could drilling and fracking operations be made safe enough to be sited in densely populated communities — or even sparsely populated communities — without making the people who live there feel they are living in a war zone?…” ” (The Huffington Post)- http://www.huffingtonpost.com/sandra-steingraber/safe-hydrofracking_b_1520574.html
“House Democrats introduce Marcellus Compact Bills: “…House Democrats have introduced six bills that would address some of the many problems with Act 13, the omnibus gas drilling law enacted in February (http://pahouse.com/PR/033052512.asp). The legislative package is comprised of the following bills:…” ” (PennFuture via (PA Council of Churches Ministry of Public Advocacy Program)- http://pachurchesadvocacy.org/weblog/?p=11070
“North Huntingdon is racing to comply on drilling: “…North Huntingdon planners will modify their proposed changes to the township’s gas drilling ordinance to comply with Act 13, a set of state-imposed regulations that, in some cases, impose less stringent rules on drillers than the township initially set…” ” (Pittsburgh Tribune-Review) (Pennsylvania)- http://triblive.com/news/1915388-74/act-turley-ordinance-gas-huntingdon-north-township-changes-municipalities-comply
“Property Tax Elimination hot topic at Kutztown Town Hall Meeting: “…Velik also asked Schwank if she would commit to overturning the Act 13 legislation. Act 13 is the law that establishes an impact fee for natural gas drilling, and the law calls drilling operations permitted uses in any zoning district, preempting local zoning of gas drilling operations including those related to the pipelines and compressor stations, according to Berks Gas Truth. Schwank said the Act 13 legislation is fraught with all kinds of problems. “As Pennsylvanians we got the raw deal,” she said…” ” (Journal Register News Service via Berks-Mont News) (Pennslyvania)- http://www.berksmontnews.com/articles/2012/06/04/kutztown_area_patriot/news/doc4fcd12fc32ccb182803782.txt?viewmode=fullstory
“DEP Announces Natural Gas Vehicle Resource Website, Technical Assistance Plan: “…HARRISBURG — The Department of Environmental Protection announced today the launch of a Natural Gas Vehicle (NGV) website and plan to help municipal and commercial fleet owners make informed decisions about converting their fleets to compressed natural gas and liquefied natural gas, in advance of a related grant program…” ” (Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection)- http://www.portal.state.pa.us/portal/server.pt/community/newsroom/14287?id=19430&typeid=1 & http://www.itnewsonline.com/showprnstory.php?storyid=219097
“Alternative Fuels Education Day in Harrisburg: “…Representatives of Citizens for Pennsylvania’s Future (PennFuture), the PennFuture Energy Center and alternative fuels businesses gathered in Harrisburg today to host Alternative Fuels Education Day. The event included exhibits and presentations in the capitol building’s East Wing Rotunda, while electric, natural gas, and biodiesel vehicles were parked outside on Commonwealth Avenue…” ” (Essential Public Radio) (Pennslyvania)- http://www.essentialpublicradio.org/story/2012-06-04/alternative-fuels-education-day-harrisburg-11303
“DCNR to collect money from drillers who harvest gas under public streams: “…Natural gas drillers have to sign leases and compensate the state if they plan to collect gas trapped deep beneath publicly owned streams and rivers, according to a policy developed recently by the Department of Conservation and Natural Resources…Publicly owned waterways in the heart of Northeastern Pennsylvania’s shale region include the Susquehanna and Delaware rivers; Tunkhannock, Bowman and Mehoopany creeks in Susquehanna and Wyoming counties; and Wyalusing, Wysox, Wappasening, Sugar and Towanda creeks in Bradford County…” ” (Times-Shamrock Communications) (Pennsylvania)- http://thetimes-tribune.com/news/dcnr-to-collect-money-from-drillers-who-harvest-gas-under-public-streams-1.1324697 & http://citizensvoice.com/news/dcnr-to-collect-money-from-drillers-who-harvest-gas-under-public-streams-1.1324586
“PennFuture Condemns Governor’s $1.7 Billion Proposed Tax Break for Cracker Plant: “…Taxpayer-funded deal kept secret as Corbett calls for massive cuts in state services…” ” (PennFuture)- http://www.environmental-expert.com/news/pennfuture-condemns-governors-17-billion-proposed-tax-break-for-cracker-plant-297899
“Gov. Tom Corbett takes heat for advocating a $67M tax break for Shell Oil/Proposed Shell tax break worth $67 million a year: “…HARRISBURG, Pa. (AP) — Gov. Tom Corbett, who has been criticized for cutting state spending for schools and social services, is advocating future tax credits worth $67 million a year for a petrochemical refinery planned by Shell Oil Co. in western Pennsylvania to capitalize on booming natural-gas drilling in the Marcellus Shale region…” ” (Associated Press) (Pennsylvania)- http://www.pennlive.com/midstate/index.ssf/2012/06/gov_tom_corbett_takes_heat_for.html , http://www.timesleader.com/stories/Proposed-Shell-tax-break-in-Pa-worth-66M-a-year-,159228 , http://www.timesunion.com/news/article/Proposed-Shell-tax-break-worth-67-million-a-year-3607363.php & http://tribune-democrat.com/latestnews/x1647297580/Corbett-pushing-tax-break-worth-67-million-a-year-for-oil-company
“How Gov. Corbett’s tax credits for Shell, ethane would work” (The Philadelphia Inquirer Blog) (Pennsylvania)- http://www.philly.com/philly/blogs/inq-phillydeals/Why-Corbett-wants-tax-credits-for-Shells-ethane.html
“Fake gas well to help train responders for emergencies: “…Visitors to North Park soon may see what looks like a gas well being built near the Allegheny County Fire Academy. County Executive Rich Fitzgerald will submit legislation to county council on Tuesday seeking approval for construction of a mock oil-and-gas production facility. If the project is approved by county legislators, the site will be used to train both public and private first responders to deal with emergencies…” ” (Pittsburgh Post-Gazette) (Pennsylvania)- http://www.post-gazette.com/stories/local/marcellusshale/fake-gas-well-to-help-train-responders-for-emergencies-638824/ & http://shale.sites.post-gazette.com/index.php/news/archives/24579-fake-gas-well-to-help-train-responders-for-emergencies
“New Database Unifies Data to Support Marcellus Shale Research: “…The Center for Biodiversity and Ecosystems at Carnegie Museum of Natural History has created a comprehensive new Geographic Information Systems— known as GIS—based database that is a one-stop-shop for information about Marcellus Shale-related natural gas development throughout Pennsylvania. The ground-breaking new database was created in direct response to a need voiced by local governments…” ” (Canon-McMillan Patch) (Pennsylvania)- http://canon-mcmillan.patch.com/articles/new-database-unifies-data-to-support-marcellus-shale-research
(Event) “Dinniman to Participate in Marcellus Shale Panel Discussion: “…State Senator Andy Dinniman will participate in a panel discussion on natural gas drilling hosted by the Sierra Club of Chester County on Tuesday, June 5 at 6:30 p.m. at the Chester County Library’s Struble Room…The panel discussion will explore natural gas drilling methods, their impact on the environment, how the natural gas industry has affected Chester County and how the Pennsylvania legislature has responded…” ” (Senator Andy Dinnman) (Pennsylvania)- http://www.senatordinniman.com/dinniman-to-participate-in-marcellus-shale-panel-discussion
“What They’re Saying: American Natural Gas “Offers Hope in Hard Times”” (Marcellus Shale Coalition)- http://www.northcentralpa.com/feeditem/2012-06-04_what-they%E2%80%99re-saying-american-natural-gas-%E2%80%9Coffers-hope-hard-times%E2%80%9D-0
“Firm and field operations supervisor charged with harboring illegal aliens for work in Pennsylvania: “…The indictment filed under seal on May 10, 2012 charges GPX and Wiggill with harboring and transporting illegal aliens, and conspiracy to commit those offenses in Pennsylvania. GPX is engaged in the business of providing seismic and surface mapping surveys for the oil and gas industry…” ” (Westmoreland Times) (Pennsylvania)- http://westmorelandtimes.com/news/2012/05/firm-and-field-operations-supervisor-charged-with-harboring-illegal-aliens-for-work-in-pennsylvania-31051203080277001/ (See also “Fort Worth man accused of transporting illegal aliens for gas project”- http://blogs.star-telegram.com/investigations/2012/06/fort-worth-man-accused-of-transporting-illegal-aliens-for-gas-project.html )
“Kroff Well Services, Inc. To Offer Expertise during Roundtable on Pennsylvania’s Gas Drilling Industry Hosted by the Rotary Club of Pittsburgh: “…”Companies are seeking solutions for safe and effective water reuse in the Marcellus Shale so that they can meet environmental regulations and keep our communities safe and healthy. Kroff is a leader in developing frac water flowback and production brine remediation procedures to allow for safe and effective reuse of these waters, and we hope that attendees will find our insights valuable for their businesses,” Grottenthaler said. ..” ” (Kroft Inc.)- http://www.wbay.com/story/18694811/kroff-well-services-inc-to-offer-expertise-during-roundtable-on-pennsylvanias-gas-drilling-industry-hosted-by-the-rotary-club-of-pittsburgh & http://www.cnbc.com/id/47678465
“Licking County may get fracking waste: “…NEWARK — Licking County has no horizontal oil and gas production wells, but it does have two deep injection wells that could receive the oil field waste from horizontal hydraulic fracturing, also known as fracking…Perry Township violations…Licking County Commissioner Doug Smith and Carol Apacki, a member of Concerned Citizens for Public Heath and the Environment, are two of many locals who have many concerns and questions about horizontal fracking and injection wells. “I’m not enthusiastic about putting flow material into wells that could potentially compromise an aquifer that passes beneath Licking County,” Smith said. “That’s a scary thought.”…” ” (The Newark Advocate) (New Jersey)- http://www.newarkadvocate.com/article/20120603/NEWS01/206030304/Licking-County-may-get-fracking-waste
“Video: Healy Vows to Continue Fight Against Recently FERC-Approved Natural Gas Pipeline: “…Mayor Jerramiah Healy appeared on NJ Today on NJTV Online last Thursday where he spoke about the controversial Spectra natural gas pipeline which was recently approved by the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) and another hot-button issue, the city’s red light cameras…” ” (The Jersey City Independent) (New Jersey)- http://www.jerseycityindependent.com/2012/06/04/video-healy-vows-to-continue-fight-against-recently-ferc-approved-natural-gas-pipeline/
“Lakefront owners concerned with drilling: “…Guilford Lake residents told their concerns to a state employee during a recent Guilford Lake Civic Association meeting. Charlotte McCurdy, northeast district preserve manager for the Ohio Department of Natural Resources (ODNR), said her department and Ohio Department of Transportation (ODOT) employees are researching state lands ownership regarding mineral rights…” ” (The Review) (Ohio)- http://www.reviewonline.com/page/content.detail/id/556397/Lakefront-owners-concerned-with-drilling.html?nav=5008
“Some landowners uncertain whether to stick with lease offer: “…A representative of a company that has been competing to sign up Athens County landowners for oil-and-gas drilling leases acknowledged last week that the firm’s latest lease terms are only an offer, and that if a landowner signs up, this doesn’t commit a Pennsylvania real-estate company to accept the leases. “What we’re doing is, we’re going back to the (landowners’) group and saying, ‘Hey, vote on this,’” explained Chris Herr of America’s Choice Realty…. He offered a new deal, with a $250-per-acre signing bonus, and suggested that given the prospects of Athens County proving a dry hole as far as oil and gas, landowners would be wise to take this offer…” ” (Athens News) (Ohio)- http://www.athensnews.com/ohio/article-37048-some-landowners-unce.html
“Denver firm will build 140 miles of pipeline in eastern Ohio: “…CADIZ — MarkWest Energy will be building up to 140 miles of pipeline in three eastern Ohio counties during the next two years to transport natural gas to its processing facility being built in the Cadiz industrial park…” ” (The Times-Reporter) (Ohio)- http://www.timesreporter.com/newsnow/x1842813992/Denver-firm-will-build-140-miles-of-pipeline-in-eastern-Ohio
“Drilling jobs should go to top local people: “…Letter to the Editor…Where is the justice when these big energy companies not only take the gas and oil from underneath us but also then have other people from outside Ohio do the work? This just does not seem right…” ” (Canton Rep) (Ohio)- http://www.cantonrep.com/opinion/letters/x1916928480/Drilling-jobs-should-go-to-top-local-people
“Jeffrey L. Frischkorn: Fracking isn’t the best thing for the Grand River” (The News-Herald) (Ohio)- http://news-herald.com/articles/2012/06/04/sports/nh5569948.txt?viewmode=fullstory
“Utica shale worth $13K-$17K per acre: “…WHEELING – Chesapeake Energy believes every acre of its oil and liquids-rich Utica shale play is worth $13,000 to $17,000, amounts that are significantly greater than most drillers are paying mineral owners to lease local land…” ” (Herald Star) (West Virginia)- http://www.heraldstaronline.com/page/content.detail/id/574396/Utica-shale-worth–13K–17K-per-acre.html?nav=5010
National & International:
“06-04-12 Natural Gas Daily Report” (The Carbon Capture Report)- http://gas.carboncapturereport.org/cgi-bin//dailyreport?DATE=2012-06-04
“Pawtucket gas leak forces evacuations: “…ABC6 is following developing news out of Pawtucket, where people had to be evacuated from their homes after a tanker truck leaked liquid natural gas all over the road. It happened just before nine Sunday night at the intersection of Montgomery and Exchange Streets. Pawtucket Police said, at one point, the situation was very serious, but hazmat crews were able to get things under control. We’re told all of those people are back in their homes. Police are investigating…” ” (ABC6) (Rhode Island)- http://www.abc6.com/story/18688725/pawtucket-gas-leak-forces-evacuations
“Asia buys US$500B Australian gas: “…Asia’s largest economies have agreed to buy more than US$500-billion of Australian natural gas through 2036 as prices rose to near record levels and the U.S. slowed plans to boost exports that would cost about half as much…Buyers from Japan, China, South Korea and India can’t count on significant U.S. supplies after the Energy Department said May 30 it wouldn’t rule on more export licenses until at least the third quarter. Decisions may be complicated by the November Presidential election as lawmakers and some consumer groups oppose exports saying they would boost domestic prices and undermine the country’s quest for energy independence…” ” (Financial Post)- http://business.financialpost.com/2012/06/04/asia-buys-us500b-australian-gas/?__lsa=7820fc28
“USA: Freeport LNG Secures Land for Liqufication Plant: “…Once Freeport LNG secures government approval and funding for construction, it will solidify this agreement for a thirty-year term which can be extended for five additional ten-year periods…” ” (LNG World News) (Texas)- http://www.lngworldnews.com/usa-freeport-lng-secures-land-for-liquefaction-plant/
“Cove Point applies for early environmental review of LNG exports: “…Dominion has applied to the US Federal Energy Regulatory Commission to begin the early environmental review process for proposed liquefied natural gas exports from its Cove Point terminal in Maryland, according to documents released Friday…” ” (Platts)- http://www.platts.com/RSSFeedDetailedNews/RSSFeed/NaturalGas/6353340
“Myersville planning commission schedules hearing on Dominion proposal: “…Myersville residents will have an opportunity to comment about the proposed construction of a natural gas compressor station near Md. 17 by Dominion Transmission energy company…The proposal has drawn opposition from residents concerned about possible environmental and other effects the station could have on the town…” ” (Gazette) (Maryland)- http://www.gazette.net/article/20120604/NEWS/706049959/1016/myersville-planning-commission-schedules-hearing-on-dominion-proposal
“Export Natural Gas to Create Jobs” (American Thinker)- http://www.americanthinker.com/2012/06/export_natural_gas_to_create_jobs.html
“Exxon Mobil says may export LNG from the U.S” (Reuters)- http://www.reuters.com/article/2012/06/05/gas-world-exxon-idUSL3E8H50QX20120605
“U.S. Govt Could Delay Exxon’s Plans To Export Natural Gas” (Forbes)- http://www.forbes.com/sites/greatspeculations/2012/06/04/u-s-govt-could-delay-exxons-plans-to-export-natural-gas/
“China’s easing grip on gas opening door to North America exports” (Bloomberg News)- http://business.financialpost.com/2012/06/04/chinas-easing-grip-on-gas-opening-door-to-north-america-exports/
“Japan’s demand fuels LNG rise: “…”The spread between North American natural gas prices and Asian LNG prices has been propelled to record levels,” said Michael Zenker, a US natural gas analysts at Barclay’s Capital (BarCap). “There may be no better signpost for the complete turnaround in the fortunes of gas supply than the growing number of LNG proposals.” Already, 11 proposals for LNG export terminals have been submitted in the US and a further four in Canada, according to BarCap. Future exports of North American gas to Asia could benefit UAE companies, too…” ” (The National) (United Arab Emirites)- http://www.thenational.ae/business/energy/japans-demand-fuels-lng-rise
“Industry Tries to Ease Fracking Worry: “…The natural-gas industry opened its first major attempt Monday to rein in concerns that a greenhouse gas released during drilling endangers the environment, saying government emissions estimates are far too high…” ” (Wall Street Journal)- http://online.wsj.com/article/SB10001424052702303506404577446733314082556.html
“Survey finds methane emissions from fracing half of EPA estimates: “…A new survey of methane emissions from hydraulic fracturing in the US found that they are 50% lower than the US Environmental Protection Agency’s estimates, the American Petroleum Institute and America’s Natural Gas Alliance jointly announced…The survey by URS Corp. and the LEVON Group found that emissions from two significant areas were even lower than EPA’s estimates, API and ANGA said. Venting of methane into the atmosphere during liquids unloading was 86% less and emissions from well workovers were 72% less, they indicated…” ” (Oil & Gas Journal)- http://www.ogj.com/articles/2012/06/survey-finds-methane-emissions-from-fracing-half-of-epa-estimates.html
“Industry groups: Administration overestimating emissions at ‘fracking’ sites” (The Hill)- http://thehill.com/blogs/e2-wire/e2-wire/230773-industry-groups-administration-overestimating-emissions-at-fracking-sites
“Can Fracking Be Cleaned Up?: “…A new analysis by the International Energy Agency says technologies exist—or are in development—that could largely address these concerns. If they’re adopted, fracking could be more widely accepted by governments around the world, leading to lower greenhouse-gas emissions and lower energy prices. It they’re not, governments could balk, and coal would maintain its dominant place in electricity generation…” ” (Technology Review/MIT)- http://www.technologyreview.com/news/428076/can-fracking-be-cleaned-up/
“Shake-up and mandate for Chesapeake: “…A shake-up of the Chesapeake Energy board at the behest of its two largest shareholders is putting more pressure on the natural gas company to sell assets to resolve its estimated $12 billion funding gap…” ” (Houston Chronicle)- http://www.chron.com/business/article/Shake-up-and-mandate-for-Chesapeake-3608829.php
“Chesapeake Reports Huge Gusher in Anadarko Basin: “…Chesapeake Energy Corp. will greet disgruntled shareholders attending the company’s annual meeting Friday with news that it’s struck oil — lots and lots of oil — in the Hogshooter play in the Anadarko Basin of the Texas Panhandle and western Oklahoma. In fact, so much oil that the company’s embattled CEO says he expects the discovery will “have transformational effects on our company’s operational and financial performance in the years ahead “…” ” (The Business Journal, Youngstown, Ohio)- http://businessjournaldaily.com/company-news/chesapeake-reports-huge-gusher-anadarko-basin-2012-6-4
“Chesapeake May Fare Better Holding Onto Its Pipeline Subsidiary: “…Carl Icahn, who helped pressure the board into replacing almost half its members, said in a filing today that he wants to discuss selling the pipelines…Chesapeake needs to sell at least $7 billion of its assets by year-end to avoid a credit downgrade, Moody’s Investors Service said May 31…” ” (Bloomberg News via Business Week)- http://www.businessweek.com/news/2012-06-04/chesapeake-may-fare-better-holding-onto-its-pipeline-subsidiary
“Does fracking need a ‘Mad Men’ makeover?: “…But according to a recent study from Louisiana State University, part of the problem might be the word “fracking” itself. That’s not to say semantics are responsible forflammable tap water, but the study does link phrasing to public opinion. In a survey of 731 randomly selected Louisiana residents, researchers found people were less likely to support hydraulic fracturing when they heard it called “fracking.” In other words, the study suggests gas companies would benefit from using other words…” ” (Forbes)- http://www.forbes.com/sites/eco-nomics/2012/06/04/does-fracking-need-a-mad-men-makeover/
“Fracking: Coming to a City or Suburb Near You: “…As they reconsider the state’s fracking regulations, California officials might want to look at the experience of Fort Worth, Texas—the epicenter of urban fracking…” ” (Earth Island Journal)- http://ecowatch.org/2012/fracking-coming-to-a-city-or-suburb-near-you/ & http://www.earthisland.org/journal/index.php/elist/eListRead/fracking_coming_to_a_city_or_suburb_near_you/
“Editorial: A chance to do fracking right” (St. Louis Today) (Missouri)- http://www.stltoday.com/news/opinion/columns/the-platform/editorial-a-chance-to-do-fracking-right/article_db4004dd-1912-5c6b-8b67-8833d966a503.html
“Letters: Gov. Jindal and state’s natural gas June 5, 2012: “…Gov. Bobby Jindal recognizes the opportunity of utilizing Louisiana’s own natural gas as a transportation fuel. His recent actions underscore his commitment to developing the natural gas fuels market for the benefit of Louisiana and the country’s energy future…” ” (Kevin McCotter vice president corporate development Chesapeake Energy Corp. via The Advocate) (Louisiana)- http://theadvocate.com/news/opinion/2988769-123/letters-gov-jindal-and-states
“Lee County commissioner expects fracking ban to be lifted: “…Womack said he plans to attend a Senate committee hearing on the issue today. He said he is interested in establishing an advisory board…” ” (Fay Observer) (North Carolina)- http://www.fayobserver.com/articles/2012/06/05/1182366
“New legislation on fracking prompts questions: “…A North Carolina Senate committee last week introduced new legislation on hydraulic fracturing, commonly known as fracking, that offers some new protections for landowners if the practice is approved. The bill does not appear to go far enough, but it is a step in the right direction…” ” (The Herald Sun) (North Carolina)- http://www.heraldsun.com/view/full_story/18852140/article-New-legislation-on-fracking-prompts-questions
“Poll: NC residents blame oil companies, OPEC for gas prices: “…The Elon University Poll surveyed 534 residents statewide last week and also found that people were evenly split on a controversial method of natural gas drilling being considered by North Carolina lawmakers…Seventy percent of those polled said natural gas needs to play a larger role in the nation’s energy mix, but a majority say they don’t know enough about a drilling process known as hydraulic fracturing, or “fracking,” to determine if it’s good for North Carolina…The state Department of Environment and Natural Resources has said fracking could be done safely in North Carolina if the proper safeguards were put in place first. The agency is expected to deliver its findings to lawmakers next month. Twenty-two percent of Elon poll respondents say they oppose fracking in North Carolina, while 21 percent say they support it…” ” (WRAL) (North Carolina)- http://www.wral.com/news/local/story/10939859/
“Fracking Intrigue In The Illinois General Assembly: “…The end of session action and fizzle came after some intensive back and forth over language being negotiated in the House, which the Trib’s editorial board took umbrage with over high tax rate on drillers, while agreeing that strong environmental safeguards should be required. But why all the hubbub? Progress Illinois has a good overview of the concerns associated with fracking, which largely revolve around water pollution both at the surface and in underground aquifers (as an aside, the piece includes quotes from Benjamin Grumbles who Stephen Colbert once noted could be a “cartoon goat“). Since the state has no rules governing fracking on the books, there is no doubt Illinois is heading for a fracking freakout. ..” ” (Chicagoist) (Illinois)- http://chicagoist.com/2012/06/03/fracking_intrigue_in_the_illinois_g.php
“State Senator John O. Jones Fears New Industry Could Be Killed Before It Can Begin: “…I’m fearful that they have destroyed an opportunity for us to create thousands of jobs for Illinoisans and I am fearful that those jobs will not come now”, said Jones…Earlier this year, the Executive Vice President of the Illinois Oil and Gas Association Brad Richards indicated up to $150 an acre was being paid for the rights in Wayne County…” ” (WJBD Radio) (Illinois)- http://www.wjbdradio.com/?f=news_single&id=33889
“Environmental activists experiencing (natural) gas pains” (The Oklahoman Editorial)- http://newsok.com/environmental-activists-experiencing-natural-gas-pains/article/3681215/
“Administrator seeks to be corporation commissioner:
“…Criticizing claims that hydraulic fracturing is unsafe, Mitchell said
he would be a “strong voice” against the U.S. Environmental Protection
Agency. Fracking is a technique used by drillers to force oil or natural
gas from rock formations. Mitchell advocated on behalf of the state’s
oil and gas industry, but said his support would be tempered as a
regulator. “We have the potential to be energy independent,” Mitchell
said. “I think you have to have strong voices to make that happen.”…” ”
(Muskogee Phoenix) (Oklahoma)- http://muskogeephoenix.com/local/x1561301990/Administrator-seeks-to-be-corporation-commissioner
“Fort Collins company releases test kit for fracking contamination” (GANNETT) (Colorado)- http://www.coloradoan.com/article/20120603/NEWS01/306030028
“SourceGas explains its need for a compressor station: “…SPRING VALLEY, Colorado — Some area residents have wondered why SourceGas insists that a compressor station be built on remote land in Spring Valley belonging to Colorado Mountain College (CMC). The reasons are both financial and technical in nature, said SourceGas spokeswoman Natalie Shelbourn…” ” (Glenwood Springs Post Independent) (Colorado)- http://www.postindependent.com/article/20120604/VALLEYNEWS/120609977/1083&ParentProfile=1074
“Still months to go for city oil and gas rules: “…Colorado Springs’ oil and gas committee agreed Monday to recommend areas for the city to regulate, but there are still several steps and months of work ahead before actual recommendations are adopted and companies could begin drilling…” ” (Colorado Springs Gazette) (Colorado)- http://www.gazette.com/articles/oil-139698-rules-city.html
“Effects of gas wells on health unknown: “…Data are few and far between when it comes to how Coloradans are affected by emissions from well pads and production facilities, said Kent Kuster, Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment’s oil and gas liaison. Kuster spoke to a sparse crowd Thursday night at an outreach and information event hosted by the state health department and the Colorado Oil and Gas Conservation Commission….” ” (The Durango Herald) (Colorado)- http://durangoherald.com/article/20120601/NEWS01/706019902/-1/s
“Colorado kids to Encana: Don’t frack our schools: “…The oil and gas corporation has set up drilling operations near local schools and daycare centers on the northern Front Range…” ” (The Colorado Independent) (Colorado)- http://coloradoindependent.com/121353/colorado-kids-to-encana-dont-frack-our-schools
“Hundreds gather to protest Encana Corp.’s fracking operation near Erie homes, schools: “…The natural gas drilling site, near the corner of Telleen and Meller streets, is across the street from Red Hawk Elementary School and within a mile of Erie Elementary and Erie Middle School. The proximity to schools is part of what sparked the outrage that prompted Saturday’s protests…” ” (Colorado Hometown Weekly) (Colorado)- http://www.coloradohometownweekly.com/ci_20778368/hundreds-gather-protest-encana-corp-s-fracking-operation
“Karen Conduff: County commissioner candidate Garry Sanfacon supports a ban on fracking: “…What I want to know is — where have regulations on oil and gas drilling gotten us? One drive through the fracking wastelands out in Weld and Adams counties will show you where. Is that what we want Boulder County to look like? Even if we had enough inspectors to monitor the activities of the gas companies and enforce the pitiful regulations we have, the fines levied would just be seen by the gas companies as part of the cost of doing business. Those counties are already paying millions for the cost of repairing the roads the gas companies tear up trucking all the water around to the well sites. They’re paying millions in health care costs that aren’t paid for by the gas companies for the destruction of people’s health…” ” (Letter to Editor, Boulder Daily Camera) (Colorado)- http://www.dailycamera.com/letters/ci_20778567/karen-conduff-county-commissioner-candidate-garry-sanfacon-supports
“Public weighs in on Bridger-Teton National Forest drilling proposal: “…CASPER, Wyo. — Comments on a Casper company’s proposal to drill two exploratory natural gas wells near Big Piney varied from worries about wildlife to concerns about restrictions limiting economic access to resources…” ” (The Billings Gazette) (Wyoming)- http://billingsgazette.com/news/state-and-regional/wyoming/public-weighs-in-on-bridger-teton-national-forest-drilling-proposal/article_3ad50bb7-18a9-52f3-95d0-9fb64862c4b2.html
“Companies fined for not giving notice of ND digs: “…BISMARCK, N.D. — Three excavation contractors were fined a total of $2,500 after pipeline companies turned them in for neglecting to provide notice of their digging projects in western North Dakota. Two were accused of causing accidents…” ” (Asssociated Press) (North Dakota)- http://www.cbsnews.com/8301-505245_162-57446919/companies-fined-for-not-giving-notice-of-nd-digs/ & http://bismarcktribune.com/news/state-and-regional/companies-fined-for-not-giving-notice-of-n-d-digs/article_54327612-aebe-11e1-95ff-0019bb2963f4.html
“Industry groups say EPA emissions overstated” (Star Telegram) (Texas)- http://blogs.star-telegram.com/barnett_shale/2012/06/industry-groups-say-epa-emissions-overstated.html
“Group vows to keep fighting after petition drive falls short: “…Attempts by a local group to put changes to Southlake’s natural gas drilling ordinance to a public vote have been put on hold. The Citizens for Property Rights (CPR), a local general political action committee, on May 29 withdrew its petition that would have forced the Southlake City Council to accept an amended drilling ordinance that is more favorable to drilling companies or to put the proposed changes to a resident vote…” ” (Star Local News) (Texas)- http://www.southlaketimes.com/articles/2012/06/04/southlake_times/news/9759.txt
“Fort Worth man accused of transporting illegal aliens for gas project: “…Douglas C. Wiggill, 42, of Fort Worth has been arrested by Pennsylvania authorities, accused of transporting 19 illegal immigrants there to work on seismic surveys for the oil and gas industry. The Fort Worth man is a field supervisor for GPX, a Sealy, Texas, based company which was also accused in a 20-count indictment, according to Pennsylvania news outlets…” ” (Star Telegram Blog) (Texas & Pennslyvania)- http://blogs.star-telegram.com/investigations/2012/06/fort-worth-man-accused-of-transporting-illegal-aliens-for-gas-project.html
“In B.C., energy policy becomes a political battleground: “…A 30-page technical report containing the B.C. government’s assessment of the proposed Northern Gateway project sits on Environment Minister Terry Lake’s desk. Still, his government remains silent on the plan to build a pipeline across northern B.C. to get Alberta oil to Asian markets. Premier Christy Clark said Sunday it is still to soon to determine if the pipeline risks are too high to bear. “We should recognize those concerns as legitimate but let’s see what comes out of the process,” she told reporters. She promised to ask “quite pointedly” over the coming months about the benefits to B.C…” ” (The Globe and Mail) (Canada)- http://www.theglobeandmail.com/news/british-columbia/in-bc-energy-policy-becomes-a-political-battleground/article4227695/
“County approves cutting-edge natural gas plant: “…Rocky View County council unanimously approved an application to rezone an area of farmland near Cochrane on May 29, to expand the Shell Canada Jumping Pound Gas Plant. Shell asked that 29.75 acres be rezoned to develop a small-scale liquefied natural gas (LNG) plant at the north end of the property, located roughly five kilometres west of Cochrane…” ” (Rock View Weekley) (Canada)- http://www.rockyviewweekly.com/article/20120604/RVW0801/306049991/county-approves-cutting-edge-natural-gas-plant
“Poland plans shale crude pipeline-report: “…WARSAW, June 4 (Reuters) – Polish oil pipeline operator PERN wants to build pipelines to carry crude oil that could flow from the country’s potentially lucrative shale reserves, the state-controlled company’s chief executive was quoted as saying on Monday…” ” (Reuters) (Poland)- http://www.reuters.com/article/2012/06/04/poland-shale-pern-idUSL5E8H41T820120604
“Noise complaint follows Corrib pipeline work: “…RESIDENTS LIVING close to the Corrib gas pipeline’s land valve in Glengad, Co Mayo, say they were subjected to a continuous high-pitch noise over the bank holiday weekend, due to testing at the installation. One elderly resident, Ena Gallagher (76), said she was forced to leave her home as it was “unbearable”, while Diane Taylor, who lives 700 metres from the land valve, said the sound penetrated double glazing, causing considerable distress…” ” (The Irish Times) Ireland)- http://www.irishtimes.com/newspaper/ireland/2012/0605/1224317294120.html
“Coal Seam Gas May Be Seeping From River” (The Epoch Times) (Australia)- http://www.theepochtimes.com/n2/australia/coal-seam-gas-may-be-seeping-from-river-246516.html
“CSG expert challenges company’s gas claim: “…Origin Energy, which owns a number of test wells near the site, says it is a natural phenomenon caused by a shallow coal seam. But CSG expert Dr Gavin Mudd from Monash University says “it beggars belief that there could be no contribution by industry”. Dr Mudd says there is no evidence to support Origin’s claim and the case needs further investigation…” ” (Australian Broadcasting Corproration) (Australia)- http://www.abc.net.au/news/2012-05-31/engineer-challenges-company-gas-claim/4043342
“Push for release of more gas blast reports: “…The State Government will continue to push for the release of all relevant documents relating to the 2008 Varanus Island gas explosion. Yesterday the Perth Magistrates Court agreed to Apache Energy’s call for two particular State Government commissioned documents on the explosion to be released…” ” (Australian Broadcasting Corproration) (Australia)- http://www.abc.net.au/news/2012-06-02/apache-documents/4048502
“Minister dismisses farmers fracking concerns” (Australian Broadcasting Corproration) (Australia)- http://www.abc.net.au/news/2012-06-02/fracking-moore/4048636
“Gas Smell in Tara” (Audio, Australian Broadcasting Corporation) (Australia)- http://blogs.abc.net.au/queensland/2012/06/gas-smell-in-tara.html
“Nosebleeds linked to CSG in Tara: “…UPDATE: The
Australian Petroleum Production and Exploration Association has refuted
claims that a hydrogen sulphide smell in the Tara residential estate is a
result of coal seam gas industry operations. The reaction came after
the Lock the Gate Alliance alleged Tara residents reported nosebleeds
and chronic headaches stemming from suspected coal seam gas leaks…” ”
(My Daily News) (Australia)- http://www.mydailynews.com.au/story/2012/06/05/nosebleeds-linked-csg-tara/
“CSG blamed for child health woes : “…COAL seam gas investigators have been sent in amid reports of children with nose bleeds and chronic headaches in a Queensland community…” ” (Adelaide Now) (Australia)- http://www.adelaidenow.com.au/news/breaking-news/csg-blamed-for-child-health-woes/story-e6frea73-1226384679828