‘The health risks are daunting’

Over the past several months, I have attended several informational presentations on fracking: the process of extracting natural gas from deep pockets of shale formations.

The most significant thing I’ve learned is that where we live, much of the county sits atop an attractive geological formation to the natural gas industry: Utica Shale.

The first talk I attended took place a few months ago in Wallkill’s Town Hall was presented by an individual inside the industry who supports fracking.

Although the presenter lives in New York, he works almost exclusively in Pennsylvania where fracking has been legal for several years. Although he had reservations about a number of environmental concerns faced by residents of Pennsylvania, he was convinced that when fracking comes to New York State “...and it is coming to New York State.”

The second presentation I attended took place in our own Town Hall here in Warwick. At this meeting a few weeks ago a more balanced presentation was given. Unlike the previous experience in Wallkill, there seemed to be tremendous local interest in the issue. Town Hall’s chambers were filled to capacity.

Two individuals representing opposing views presented their cases. Even the industry’s spokesperson conceded that well leaks do occur and that wells were, indeed, contaminated in Dimrock, Pa.

Both presenters showed photos of landscapes we would not want to see in Warwick

Finally, two weeks ago I had the occasion to attend a lecture at Orange County Community College by a professor from Cornell University who confirmed in my mind that fracking is not to be taken blithely.

The environmental and health risks are daunting.

I am convinced that all risks from fracking are, indeed, possible, probable and preventable.

In the media, the industry hits us with ‘soft advertising’ daily hailing the advantages of natural gas.

But they don’t tell us about the disruption or risks drilling creates.

I entreat the Warwick Town Board, as soon as possible, to enact a ban on any fracking.

This action is imperative for the health and safety of its good citizens.

Russ Layne

Chester