These are email messages that people like you have sent to us to share what they said to Governor Paterson about withdrawing the dSGEIS in order to continue the moratorium on drilling in New York.
- To Whom It May Concern:
I writing to urge to to withdraw the Marcellus Shale draft SGEIS. As it stands, it currently goes against the public interest and our most important, irreplaceable natural resource--water. It is a travesty that things have gotten this far without public approval, and it is imperative that you stand up for all of us citizens in NY.
Thank you.
--
Sara R - Dear Governor,
The DEC is not protecting our water adequately. There are ways to drill and frack that protect our water. Water will be worth more than oil and gas in 10 years. Are you willing to personally take on a law suit from all the land owners of NY for knowingly putting our water supply at risk? I for one will initiate a suite if our rights to safe drinking and agricultural water are violated especially since you have been notified of the risk. Most importantly because there exists safe technology to frack with nontoxic substances, safe filtering of the fracking fluid recovered (please see ecosphere technology at http://www.ecospheretech.com/water-solutions/renewable-energy-solutions) and the possibility of careful overseeing of the "pigging" in when our water table is sealed off from the drill site. Show some backbone! Protect your constituents future! This is not a sustainable way to get revenue, you will be paying for the toxic clean up for years to come!
withdraw the draft SGEIS!
Suzanne C - Dear Governor Patterson,
Please withdraw the draft SGEIS. we can not afford to destroy our own supply of clean water. The war that will most greatly effect our lives is the war over clean, pure, drinkable water. Our water supplies are already greatly contaminated and this proposal would simply eliminate a very massive chunk of our own supply running beneath our feet.
We as a society already have an unbelievably challenging road ahead of fixing our forefathers mistakes. We need every HUMAN BEING to get on board and compete with not with each other, but against our mistakes. This would simply be a grave mistake to allow this drilling to take place in our own state, and we need to bring that knowledge to America. We, the citizens of New York, can lead the way.
I urge you to promote sustainable living measures and to reward those organizations, companies and or people who promote and utilize sustainable living. Contaminating our very own water supply would be an insurmountable task to overcome and would hardly constitute sustainable living. Nor do we need to drill for natural gas. We have everything we need to survive already. It's time that our leaders stand up and do whats right and bring those incredible resources to the general public. This is a great place to start and lead the way.
I believe you can guide this great State and look forward to joining you in this fight.
Sincerely,
Kenny D - Please withdraw the draft of the SGEGIS. it does not serve our
beautiful upstate environment or protect it from destruction. The NYC
watershed area is only aspect of this pristine area that needs
protection.
Joan E - As an emeritus member of the American Institute of Biological Sciences
(AIBS), I ask you to withdraw the massively inadequate Marcellus Shale
draft SGEIS. That such a document was submitted is a scandal.Gerrit C
- Hello Governor Paterson,
This e-mail is sent to you, to urge you use your office to withdraw the draft SGEIS for hydrofracking the Marcellus Shale Deposits. New York State can not afford to pollute our valuable water resources!
Respectfully, Charles G
- I am writing to Governor Patterson to encourage him to withdraw the proposed SGEIS in regards to natural gas removal from the Marcellus Shale which underlies significant portions of New York State's prime agricultural land and New York City watershed. West Valley in Western New York is enough of a toxic tragedy for this part of the state, we don't need an even more widespread tragedy in New York. "Fracking" chemicals are the useless, toxic hydrocarbon waste left over from refining oil. We do not need the land and water tables of central and Western New York contaminated by these wastes! Toxic tradegies exist in Pennsylvania and now, Geneva, New York.
I am very pleased with the will and direction our Governor is providing us, and am very happy with Mr. Patterson, and hope he is elected back into office. Than you for your attention to this matter,
Sincerely,
Mark K
- Please withdraw this SGEIS 'allowment'.
You must stop this from happening.
Hydrofracturing is proven genocide. You cannot support it.
Ecological disaster equals economic disaster.
Connect the dots for once. You might save this state after all.
David B
- Dear Governor Paterson,
I am writing to you with a sense of urgency with regards to drilling for natural gas in the Marcellus Shale.
I ask that you immediately withdraw the draft Supplemental SGEIS because it is utterly inadequate to safeguard New York's environment and public health.
The Department of Environmental Conservation's (DEC) own spill reports document existing regulations have failed to prevent or to require the clean up of hundreds of natural gas and oil drilling problems involving fires, explosions, polluted drinking water wells, home evacuations and massive drilling wastewater releases. DEC must not issue new gas drilling permits until those regulatory concerns have been fully resolved. That is why the Supplemental SGEIS review must be restarted.
The draft SGEIS totally fails to propose a safe method of managing natural gas drilling wastewater and hydrofracking fluid. It simply leaves that task to localities. Improper management of natural gas drilling wastewater has already caused massive toxic pollution impacts. The SGEIS must solve this disposal problem before new natural gas drilling permits are issued.
DEC is woefully understaffed to cope with existing natural gas drilling problems. Only 17 staff are available to regulate nearly 7,000 existing natural gas wells. New gas drilling permits must not be issued until the SGEIS solves this problem.
The SGEIS fails to address critical issues associated with strict clean up liability, natural gas spill reporting, private right of legal action, insurance coverage and unfunded local government mandates. All those concerns must be addressed prior to the issuance of new gas drilling permits.
As a resident of upstate New York I experience the beauty of the land each day, enjoy clean well water that is available to me and the abundance of wildlife. The prospect of our communities and environment being exploited by the energy industry and resulting in the destruction of all that is precious here in upstate New York is just too much to bear. New York needs to be a proponent of alternative forms of energy, not supporting our dependence on fossil fuels.
As governor of this great state you have a duty to protect New York's natural resources and public health. That is why the draft SGEIS must be withdrawn.
Regards,
Patricia V
- Dear Governor Paterson:
As a guardian of New York's natural resources and public health, I urge you to immediately withdraw the draft Supplemental Environmental Impact Statement (dSGEIS) for Marcellus Shale Well Permit Issuance for Horizontal Drilling and High-Volume Hydrofracking.. This dSGEIS is utterly inadequate to safeguard New York's environment and public health.
As the Department of Environmental Conservation's own reports document, existing regulations have failed to prevent or to require the clean up of hundreds of natural gas and oil drilling problems -- resulting in fires, explosions, polluted drinking water wells, home evacuations and massive drilling wastewater releases. DEC must not issue new gas drilling permits until those regulatory concerns have been fully resolved. That is why the Supplemental GEIS review must be restarted.
The current draft totally fails to propose a safe method of managing natural gas drilling wastewater and hydrofracking fluid. It simply leaves that task to localities. Improper management of natural gas drilling wastewater has already caused massive toxic pollution impacts. The SGEIS must solve this disposal problem before new natural gas drilling permits are issued.
DEC is woefully understaffed to cope with existing natural gas drilling problems. Only 17 staff are available to regulate nearly 7,000 existing natural gas wells. New gas drilling permits must not be issued until the SGEIS solves this problem.
And --The SGEIS fails to address critical issues associated with strict clean up liability, natural gas spill reporting, private right of legal action, insurance coverage and unfunded local government mandates. All those concerns must be addressed prior to the issuance of new gas drilling permits. For all these reasons, the draft SGEIS must be withdrawn.
Governor, I know you have a lot on your plate these days -- but please, give your urgent attention to this matter which affects the health of New York's citizens and the long-term integrity of its environment.
Yours very truly,
Nina K
-
Dear Governor Patterson:
We have learned from the coal companies and the oil companies and the various manufacturing companies that ravage their surroundings (e.g. Love Canal, West Virginia) that they are focused on profits and the environment be damned, unless they get caught.
This has been going on since the Industrial Revolution with toxins tossed about, but anywhere people live, they throw their stuff around very casually. Whether it is the canals in Thailand or South America, or our rivers in the United States where you can see garbage floating out to the oceans, or toxic dumps, or mountain tops cut off and dumped in the local streams, people think very little about the damage they do the earth.
It is becoming too much of a burden on the earth and its inhabitants, and some governments in Europe are trying a lot harder than we do in the U. S. to cap pollution. If gas is going to be drilled in New York State, very strict laws should be laid down to protect the people, the animals, the local environment and the world environment. That gas has been there for eons and its not going anywhere and it will wait until we have strict protections in place. Yes, the State needs the money and the people who own the land need the money, but if we don't protect our environment and our populations, it will cost far more in the future than the quick profits to be made now.
Sincerely,
Shirley R
- Please withdraw this SGEIS 'allowment'.
You must stop this from happening.
Hydrofracturing is proven genocide. You cannot support it.
Ecological disaster equals economic disaster.
Connect the dots for once. You might save this state after all.
David B
- Governor Patterson,
Please withdraw the draft SGEIS.
Sally L - Governor Patterson,
I urge you to reject the Marcellus Shale draft SGEIS. It does not adequately address the needs of residents for healthy water supplies.
I grew up in Moravia, in Cayuga County, on a farm. We pumped our drinking water from a well in our back yard. Such wells may well be toxic if BIG OIL is allowed to blast cracks deep underground.
The countryside in the Finger Lakes Region is among the most beautiful on earth, especially in the summer months. The beauty and tranquility that makes this a special place to raise children or retire to (my intentions) will be destroyed if BIG OIL is allowed to have its way.
Kenneth W
- Governor Paterson---withdraw the draft SGEIS.
Kalika S - Dear Governor Patterson,
It is critically important that you withdraw the draft Supplemental GEIS on Marcellus Shale Horizontal Hydro-fracturing. The proven risk of toxic water pollution from these activities extends far beyond the local areas in which the hydraulic fracturing and gas recovery takes place, putting the watershed serving 9 million people in New York city in serious danger of drinking water contamination, not to mention the severe local impacts.
Unfortunately, the draft environmental analysis underestimates the severity of the risk and the critical importance of strict regulatory enforcement required with this inherently risky and difficult-to-contain process. The history of gas producers' failure to contain and adequately process toxic wastewater, even on the small scale that currently exists, illustrates the severity of the toxic damage that can and will occur in the absence of strict regulation and enforcement. Such recognition is lacking in the current New York State analysis.
I ask in the strongest terms that you withdraw the draft Supplemental GEIS on Marcellus Shale Horizontal Hydro Fracturing, and allow an extended discussion and planning process to ensue that addresses the concerns of NY State's regional and municipal governments, many affected citizens, and now the EPA.
Best Regards,
Daniel S
- Dear Governor Paterson:
There is a growing body of comments on the dSGEIS on shale gas drilling that have been submitted by individuals and organizations possessing considerable scientific and technical expertise (e.g. the EPA and the Steward Council of Division 169 of the NYS Public Employees Federation) that demonstrate that the current draft SGEIS is incomplete and inadequate.
I am writing to ask you, again, to withdraw the current draft SGEIS and to continue the moratorium on shale gas drilling in NY state. It is imperative that NY protect all of its natural resources, as well as the health and safety of its residents.
Sincerely,
Mary S - Dear Governor Patterson:
I just read the EPA's suggestion concerning the DEC's dSGEIS. I hope you will direct the DEC to write a new set of regulations that address the EPA's concerns. This would be incredibly wise - endangering NYState's water supply would definitely be incredibly counter productive!
Sincerely,
Kate R - Dear Governor Patterson:
I am writing to request that you withdraw the Marcellus Shale draft SGEIS.
Sincerely,
Penny B
- Dear Governor Paterson:
I respectfully must urge you in the strongest terms to withdraw the dSGEIS for Marcellus Shale Well Permit Issuance for Horizontal Drilling and High Volume Fracking.
The dSGEIS is totally inadequate to address the many concerns that high volume fracking brings up: wastewater issues, water table issues (how much water will be taken and from what sources?), updating of current regulations to reflect the greatly increased scale of drilling, expanding the DEC staff to manage the huge increase in number of wells, liability issues, contamination issues - the list goes on and on.
Please withdraw the dSGEIS immediately and begin the process for a thorough and in depth analysis of the potential impact of high volume fracking. Clean fresh water is an incredibly valuable resource. Besides the heavy reliance of both upstate NY and NYC on watersheds for drinking water, many businesses depend on the abundant fresh water that is our treasure in NYS including organic and conventional farming, tourism and wineries. Additionally, many communities do not want 200 foot drilling platforms littering the countryside. Why not promote wind farms instead? Most communities would much rather look at a graceful wind turbine than a drilling platform, and there is no risk of contaminating the water table. We need economic development, but we need development that is sustainable. Many of the analyses of the revenue that the drilling will bring to NYS do not take into account long term costs, such as repair and maintenance of road beds and bridges fron the greatly increased truck traffic, increased CO2 emissions from the same truck traffic, clean up of spills, local mandates to police and inspect for environmental standards, insurance and liabilities etc etc.
Please do not risk having your legacy be that of the Governor who ruined NY's fresh water and natural beauty. Please withdraw the dSGEIS.
Thank you for acting to protect the citizens of this state.
Sincerely,
Susan T
- Dear Governor Paterson,
To me the most distressing issue with "fracking" in the Marcellus Shale is the enormous amount of wastewater that is produced. The gas in the Marcellus Shale is not about to disappear, and we should wait until a better method is developed to extract the gas. Please do what is obviously best for New York, and withdraw the draft SGEIS. This would show the kind of statesmanship that I and I believe many New Yorkers are desperately looking for.
Most respectfully,
Robbert V
- Dear Gov. Paterson,
I respectfully request that you withdraw the draft SGEIS. Let's make NY strong with clean energy initiatives that will take us into the future. Poisoning our air and water will not be good for the State. Neither will the ugly landscapes that will take over the natural beauty that is the Finger Lakes. Just look to Penn to see the future if the hydrofracking is initiated.
Thank you for all that you do.
Best wishes for a healthy and blessed new year.Esther H
-
Dear Friends,
About 2 weeks ago I had a sort of loud conversation with a casual friend as we waited in line at our local Post Office. She seemed, or so I thought, to be ranting in classic Ithaca hippie style, about the frightful and unavoidable environmental doomsday that awaited New York once the nefarious gas companies got the go-ahead on drilling permits from NY's Governor Patterson. I reminded her that natural gas is a relatively clean burning fuel, and that since we are nationally committed to our marriage with fossil fuels for the present, this initiative to develop the richest source of natural gas in the USA (true) might be a lesser evil than other approaches and would indeed be economically a goldmine (estimates of $1 trillion in revenues) for NY state. "Yes, but the risks are unacceptable!" she pronounced stridently. My counterpoint: "You take a certain level of risk every time you get in your car and drive somewhere!"
My reasoning seemed sound (to me), but I left the Post Office feeling a bit ashamed that I had not done my homework on this subject and had nearly reacted as emotionally as my friend, just in the opposing direction. Had I just sounded like a George W. accolyte?
So, I went home and got on the computer. Three days of research , and so far, 4 meetings later (2 at Cornell Univ with lots of very well educated scientists, and 2 community meetings) and I now have significant concerns about the safety of horizontal hydrofracking and the apparent lack of sufficient third party oversight to safeguard our natural resources, roadways and legal rights involved with possible drilling consequences.
I'm not one to join causes. Even Vietnam was not my fight. I gave a little money to support my candidates in the last set of local and national elections. I do what I can to be mindful of my own carbon footprint, without becoming what some might call a prostilitizing eco-evangelist. (We have a lot of them up here in Ithaca). Most of the time I make the conscious assumption that there's more than one side to every story and I staunchly try to educate myself accordingly about the various points of view.
A little over a year ago, I signed a gas lease with one of the gas companies who intends to commence drilling operations here in the gas-rich Marcellus Shale that spans most of NY and PA. I spent about 8 months talking to lawyers, hydrogeologists, legislators, gas company executives, business owners, and engineers. My attorney and I crafted what we both thought was a good and solid contract. It reads well, even now. A couple of months after the documents were signed, the check came (their signing "bonus") and I slept well in the belief that I had done all I could to protect my property rights and my children's inheritance (our 81 acres).
Today I am beginning to explore options for breaking this contract. Today I wonder how I ever could have been so naive. Today, I excuse myself on the basis that the words "hydrofracking" were never once so much as whispered, let alone, described during contract negotiations. And, yesterday I signed a petition that implores our Governor to withhold granting high volume slick water horizontal well drilling permits until the Dept. of Environmental Conservation's environmental impact statement (known as the dSGeis) is completely revised. I have not heard of a single credible environmental or bioengineering agency, statewide, or national that credits this document with having remotely adequate safeguards for us New Yorkers.
If the EIS is passed into law (Dec. 31st is the deadline), we will have virtually no rights protecting us from immediate or long-term environmental damages that may occur subsequent to drilling activities. DEC has 17 employees to oversee the "suggested" best practices for safe gas extraction at each well (proposed to be some 5,000+ wells). That's right, 17. These 17 people are hardly able to do in the future what DEC has already been unable to do (by their own published safety records) at spills or accidents at existing (non-hydrofraked) natural gas wells in NY state. And there are thousands of wells with hundreds of incomplete cleanups. All in the public record.
Please take a few minutes to read, and if you can, sign the petition described below. It does not advocate a ban on natural gas drilling. It does call for an approach that is based upon careful science, clear and meaningful environmental safeguards and a totally revised legal framework to accomplish such ends, BEFORE DRILLING IS ALLOWED.
Anyone who has experience with cleaning up a toxic spills will verify that mitigation is infinitely more difficult (and often impossible) than prevention.
PLEASE TAKE THE TIME TO VISIT THE FOLLOWING WEBSITE to read and sign the petition, and send this on to as many others as you are willing. You don't have to be from or in NY to sign, by the way...:
http://toxicstargeting.com/MarcellusShale/coalition_letter
For the record, I've never felt so strongly about anything.....
With my thanks and deep concern,
Evie
-
Dear Governor Paterson,
I am writing to you again on the subject of high volume hydraulic fracturing in New York.
Today I ask you to order your Department of Environmental Conservation to withdraw and then rewrite the current dSGEIS addressing high volume hydraulic fracturing in horizontal drilling operations. Having waded through significant portions of the document, I do not believe that it will adequately protect the citizens of New York State from harmful environmental and economic impacts, and with only 17 staff to oversee permitting and drilling, companies will not be held accountable to even the minimum regulations currently in the document.
The DEC must be given more time to review, study, and update their current GEIS regulating gas and oil drilling in New York State, as these regulations alone have not been adequate in preventing previous natural gas and oil drilling problems involving fires, explosions, polluted drinking water wells, and drilling wastewater releases (one of which recently happened in Cayuga Lake when the village of Cayuga Heights, near my home town, accepted wastewater from drilling operations). The DEC staffing must be greatly increased before any new drilling operations are undertaken.
It is your duty and your job to protect our public health, our drinking water, and our air. If you do not withdraw this document and require more informed, comprehensive regulation on this form of drilling, then respectfully, you are not doing your job and you will not have my vote should you run for office in the future.
Sincerely,
Jessica E - Governor Paterson
Please withdraw the draft SGEIS.
I am the President of the West Shore Homeowners Association in Ithaca, NY. Our association consists of 250 families that live on the West Shore of Cayuga Lake. We are extremely concerned with the gas drilling. The Finger Lakes, including Cayuga Lake, are irreplaceable resources that are at the core of the Finger Lakes economy and life style. Please do not permit gas drilling without the appropriate, stringent protection of our lakes, wells and environment.
If they will not be drilling in the New York City watershed, why should it be ok to drill in Upstate NY? Where is the millions of gallons, per well, come from? Where will the water, after it has been poisoned with chemicals, be treated? Why should the thousands of trucks hauling this water be permitted to use local roads never intended for such heavy duty trucks?
Don S
- Dear Governor Paterson,
I am a lifelong New York State resident (Ithaca, then Brooklyn), and I am writing to you today with a heavy heart.
I believe it is a baseline duty of the New York State government to protect the health and safety of my family and neighbors, and right now, that duty falls to you.
YOU MUST IMMEDIATELY WITHDRAW THE DRAFT SUPPLEMENTAL GEIS because it is utterly inadequate to safeguard New York's environment and public health.
The Department of Environmental Conservation's (DEC) own spill reports document existing regulations have failed to prevent or to require the clean up hundreds of natural gas and oil drilling problems involving fires, explosions, polluted drinking water wells, home evacuations and massive drilling wastewater releases. DEC must not issue new gas drilling permits until those regulatory concerns have been fully resolved. That is why the Supplemental GEIS review must be restarted.
The draft SGEIS totally fails to propose a safe method of managing natural gas drilling wastewater and hydrofracking fluid. It simply leaves that task to localities. Improper management of natural gas drilling wastewater has already caused massive toxic pollution impacts. The SGEIS must solve this disposal problem before new natural gas drilling permits are issued.
DEC is woefully understaffed to cope with existing natural gas drilling problems. Only 17 staff are available to regulate nearly 7,000 existing natural gas wells. New gas drilling permits must not be issued until the SGEIS solves this problem.
The SGEIS fails to address critical issues associated with strict clean up liability, natural gas spill reporting, private right of legal action, insurance coverage and unfunded local government mandates. All those concerns must be addressed prior to the issuance of new gas drilling permits.
I am currently studying policy and public health at Johns Hopkins University, but have every intention of returning to upstate New York to raise my family when I complete my degree. That is, unless I have to make the heart wrenching decision that it just isn't safe. Please Governor Paterson, don't force me away from my home.
Sincerely,
Alex R - Dear Governor Paterson,
I have been unable to get through to a staff person in your office to
talk to in person. I am unable to wait any longer than I already
have thus far to get through. I did leave a message on the answering
machine, but to be extra sure that you get my message I am emailing you.I am urging you to withdraw the draft Supplemental Generic
Environmental Statement and send the DEC back to the drawing board
to come up with much tighter, more specific regulations than those
contained in the SGEIS.Of major concern to me is the matter of safeguarding our water
supplies (of every sort) from contamination from both the fracking
process itself and the disposal of the wastewater. There have been
too many cases in other states, and even here in New York, of
irreparable, un-remediable damage to the environment and to people's
health that make me very worried about the possibility that you would
allow natural gas drilling in New York without a far more carefully
researched and examined look at the process of horizontal drilling
and hydraulic fracturing, followed up by a comprehensive, stringent
set of regulations imposed upon the companies conducting this gas
extraction.Furthermore, the DEC needs to be able to be able to effectively
monitor the gas drilling activities. The present number of 17 is
incapable of handling proper oversight of the existing 7,000 wells.
How can they possibly be expected to handle the many thousands more
new wells using an inadequately understood and experienced gas
extraction process.The current SGEIS is frighteningly lacking in all the needed
safeguards to insure that the gas drilling does not leave millions of
acres of our land polluted, contaminated, and hopelessly degraded and
the health of thousands of our citizens impaired. Our state
government cannot let the gas industry self-regulate on these
matters. On this, the 25th anniversary of the Bhopal disaster, you
need consider carefully how the state government uses its regulatory
powers to prevent what could be a slow, time released process that
could have a cumulative effect comparable to the Bhopal disaster.My best wishes in giving this issue wise and careful consideration.
Yours,
Elisa E
- Dear Governor Patterson,
I urge you to withdraw the draft supplemental environmental impact statement for permit issuance for drilling in the Marcellus shale until regulatory procedures that are adequate and enforceable have been worked out. The dangers that drilling poses to New York State's environment are enormous, and the potential damage to soil and water quality in the region will be irreversible. I am particularly concerned about the draft's failure to require safe methods of dealing with waste water and chemicals used in hydrofracking. The DEC hasn't the staff to monitor the drilling, and disposal is simply handed off to the municipalities. It will be penny wise but pound foolish for New York to go for quick profits but impose massive toxic waste problems on future generations.
Louise H
-
Dear Governor Patterson:
In my fifty years or so of being a concerned citizen, I do not remember a time that I have felt so strongly about a single issue. The damage that will be caused by natural gas drilling in upstate New York (indeed, anywhere) truly threatens the livelihood of our communities and the legacy we leave to our children.
Can I urge you with whatever strength (political, moral) that I have- to withdraw the draft Supplemental GEIS. New York’s environment? Our public health cannot be safeguarded under its existing regulations.
Gas exploration companies have secured the lease of neighbors who had absolutely no idea of the risk this drilling presents to the wellbeing of our families and community. They were invited to sign such leases without full information under virtually fraudulent conditions. Many are deeply regretting their actions.
I hope that your good judgment and caution and your interest in preserving the natural resources of upstate New York and the safety and security of the health of our communities will be brought to bear on this important issue and that you will withdraw the draft Supplemental GEIS as soon as possible.
Sincerely,
Mary Fainsod Katzenstein
Stephen and Evalyn Milman Professor of American Studies
Department of Government
Cornell University - Dear Governor Patterson:
I am writing with deep concern and outrage about the risks posed to the environment and human life in upstate New York by companies who failed to provide adequate information to all who signed leases for the natural gas exploration that is about to start. The information that has now come out is truly alarming about the environmental disaster into which we are likely to march -- spoiling especially the quality of water but also many other aspects of our environment.
You can, should and must stop the draft supplemental GEIS from moving forward at this time and you should and can insist on responsible stewardship of the environment coupled with a esponsible policy of exploration and drillling.
Thank you for your concern and effort on behalf of many outraged and deeply worried citizens of upstate New York.
Peter Katzenstein
Walter S. Carpenter Jr Professor of International Studies
Cornell University -
Dear Governor Patterson,
I strongly urge that you immediately withdraw the draft Supplemental GEIS because it is utterly inadequate to safeguard New York's environment and public health.
The Department of Environmental Conservation's (DEC) own spill reports document existing regulations have failed to prevent or to require the clean up of hundreds of natural gas and oil drilling problems involving fires, explosions, polluted drinking water wells, home evacuations and massive drilling wastewater releases. DEC must not issue new gas drilling permits until those regulatory concerns have been fully resolved. That is why the Supplemental GEIS review must be restarted.
The draft SGEIS totally fails to propose a safe method of managing natural gas drilling wastewater and hydrofracking fluid. It simply leaves that task to localities. Improper management of natural gas drilling wastewater has already caused massive toxic pollution impacts. The SGEIS must solve this disposal problem before new natural gas drilling permits are issued.
DEC is woefully understaffed to cope with existing natural gas drilling problems. Only 17 staff are available to regulate nearly 7,000 existing natural gas wells. New gas drilling permits must not be issued until the SGEIS solves this problem.
The SGEIS fails to address critical issues associated with strict clean up liability, natural gas spill reporting, private right of legal action, insurance coverage and unfunded local government mandates. All those concerns must be addressed prior to the issuance of new gas drilling permits.
Our drinking water is far to important to risk.
Will R
- Dear Governor Paterson,
Please do not allow horizontal natural gas drilling in our state as
the environmental risks outweigh the economic gain. What will we do
with the millions of gallons of hazardous waste created by the
fracking chemicals. This must be addressed NOW. Thank you.Dennis C
- Dear Governor Patterson,
This is my first time writing you---though I have followed your term in office. It's about my concern, my great concern, that the natural gas drilling via hydro-fracking will proceed without the strictest oversight of the many spin-off problems already documented in many parts of the country where this approach has been used---and that there is no evidence that they would not occur with similar drastic consequences in our own locale.
The action that I would like you to very much consider is to extend the period where the Supplemental Environmental Impact Statement can be addressed to the satisfaction of all concerned so that my concerns and, to my knowledge, those of so many, many others can be given the time and attention without which such drilling, I believe, would be a travesty of monumental proportions.
I see this situation as about the most serious that has presented itself in the 80 years of my New york State residence. I cannot see our lives will have any rest (or safety) until this situation has been brought to resolution.I thank you so much for your attention to this matter,
Sincerely, Monty B -
Dear Governor Paterson,
You must immediately withdraw the draft Supplemental GEIS because it is utterly inadequate to safeguard New York's environment and public health.
The Department of Environmental Conservation's (DEC) own spill reports document existing regulations have failed to prevent or to require the clean up of hundreds of natural gas and oil drilling problems involving fires, explosions, polluted drinking water wells, home evacuations and massive drilling wastewater releases. DEC must not issue new gas drilling permits until those regulatory concerns have been fully resolved. That is why the Supplemental GEIS review must be restarted.
The draft SGEIS totally fails to propose a safe method of managing natural gas drilling wastewater and hydrofracking fluid. It simply leaves that task to localities. Improper management of natural gas drilling wastewater has already caused massive toxic pollution impacts. The SGEIS must solve this disposal problem before new natural gas drilling permits are issued.
DEC is woefully understaffed to cope with existing natural gas drilling problems. Only 17 staff are available to regulate nearly 7,000 existing natural gas wells. New gas drilling permits must not be issued until the SGEIS solves this problem.
The SGEIS fails to address critical issues associated with strict clean up liability, natural gas spill reporting, private right of legal action, insurance coverage and unfunded local government mandates. All those concerns must be addressed prior to the issuance of new gas drilling permits.
The RIGHT THING TO DO for the citizens of NY State is to just say, "NO" to hydrofracking at this time. The future of our state depends on it. PA failed to do this and are suffering immeasurably for the gain and greed of a few. It's a matter of short-term (and short-sighted) gain for long-term pain and we deserve better than that.
Sincerely,
Charleen M. H - Governor Patterson,
SGEIS is simply inadequate to safeguard New York's environment and public health.
The DEC has documented that existing regulations are inadequate to safeguard and protect our environment, and the DEC is woefully understaffed to cope with all the natural gas drilling problems.
As the governor of New York State, you have a duty to protect New York's natural resources. That is why draft SGEIS must be withdrawn, until all the related concerns are addressed.
Respectfully,
Noemi K - Dear Governor Paterson:
I am writing to ask you to withdraw the draft Supplemental GEIS on drilling in the Marcellus Shale and other low-permeability gas reservoirs. I also ask that you continue the moratorium on high-volume "slickwater" horizontal drilling in the Marcellus Shale and other low-permeability gas reservoirs in NY until a new, truly comprehensive SGEIS has been developed. I further ask that you reserve judgment on whether large-scale shale gas drilling should go forward at all until you (and the citizens of NY) have had the chance to fully consider the information presented in the new, truly comprehensive SGEIS.
Regrettably, the current draft SGEIS is deficient in many regards. Its most serious deficiency is its failure to create comprehensive models of the cumulative impacts of large-scale shale gas drilling, but there are other deficiencies. For example, the dSGEIS does not seriously address:
• the problem of waste disposal
• the issue of how to safely deal with naturally occurring radioactive materials
(some of the readings listed in Appendix 13 of the dSGEIS are alarmingly high)
• the issue of habitat fragmentation
• the current, terribly inadequate gas well setbacks from homes and waterways
• the danger of fracturing fluid flowing through abandoned, unplugged gas and oil wells
• the effects of the drilling upon residential property values and community character.In addition to the above deficiencies, I am also disappointed at the silence of many of the divisions of the DEC. Where is the input from those who are charged with protecting our water, our air, and our forests?
Finally, I am deeply concerned that the seriously understaffed DEC cannot properly oversee existing gas wells, let alone the thousands of additional gas wells that are likely to be drilled to extract shale gas. Indeed, according to the DEC's own records, many existing cases of contamination related to gas drilling have not yet been properly addressed, yet we seem poised to move, full speed ahead, into an era of massive drilling. This makes no sense to me.
I grew up in Pennsylvania, in a region that was still suffering the disastrous effects of coal mining. As a child, I thought it was "normal" to hear news about mine cave-ins and fires, and to see glowing mountains of coal by night and strip-mined wastelands by day. When my husband and I moved to upstate NY, I felt as if I had moved to paradise. We have spent 25 very happy years here, and we were looking forward to spending our retirement here as well. Now, because of the proposed shale gas drilling, we are thinking of moving away from a home we love.
I understand that NY is in desperate need of revenue, but a short-term fix that creates long-term problems is not a real solution. High-volume, slickwater hydrofracturing has already caused numerous problems around the country, and the current dSGEIS offers no real protections for our area.
Please, Governor Paterson, do not bet our homes and health on this flawed draft SGEIS. Please withdraw the dSGEIS and order a new, unbiased, truly comprehensive study of this important issue.
Sincerely,
Mary S - Dear Governor Paterson,
Please withdraw the draft Supplemental GEIS because it is utterly inadequate to safeguard New York's environment and public health.
The Department of Environmental Conservation's (DEC) own spill reports document existing regulations have failed to prevent or to require the clean up of hundreds of natural gas and oil drilling problems involving fires, explosions, polluted drinking water wells, home evacuations and massive drilling wastewater releases. DEC must not issue new gas drilling permits until those regulatory concerns have been fully resolved. That is why the Supplemental GEIS review must be restarted.
The draft SGEIS totally fails to propose a safe method of managing natural gas drilling wastewater and hydrofracking fluid. It simply leaves that task to localities. Improper management of natural gas drilling wastewater has already caused massive toxic pollution impacts. The SGEIS must solve this disposal problem before new natural gas drilling permits are issued.
DEC is woefully understaffed to cope with existing natural gas drilling problems. Only 17 staff are available to regulate nearly 7,000 existing natural gas wells. New gas drilling permits must not be issued until the SGEIS solves this problem.
The SGEIS fails to address critical issues associated with strict clean up liability, natural gas spill reporting, private right of legal action, insurance coverage and unfunded local government mandates. All those concerns must be addressed prior to the issuance of new gas drilling permits.
I look forward to your response,
Dr. Michelle B - Dear Governor Paterson:
Please withdraw the 9/30/09 draft Supplemental Environmental Impact
Statement (dSGEIS) for Marcellus Shale Well Permit Issuance for
Horizontal Drilling and High-Volume Hydrofracking. This is a highly
destructive and polluting process that should not be pursued.This is of utmost importance to the ecology and to safety of
individuals and communities, with drinking water safety being high on
the list.Thank you.
Sincerely,
Lois D
- Governor Paterson,
You have a duty to protect New York's natural resources and public health. That is why the draft SGEIS must be withdrawn.
If the industries that want that gas so badly are pressured to do it, they will come up with ways to extract the gas without endangering our drinking water and contaminating our beautiful upstate farmlands, waterways and forests.
Put the onus on them to find a workable solution. They will do it. The gas will be there until the solutions are developed.
The nightmares that are currently being visited upon other areas of this country, including our neighbors in PA, should not have to come here too. Let us learn from their mistakes.
Thank you for your kind attention.
Sincerely,
Marcia R
- Dear Governor Paterson,
Please immediately withdraw the draft Supplemental GEIS because it is utterly inadequate to safeguard New York's environment and public health.
The Department of Environmental Conservation's (DEC) own spill reports document existing regulations have failed to prevent or to require the clean up of hundreds of natural gas and oil drilling problems involving fires, explosions, polluted drinking water wells, home evacuations and massive drilling wastewater releases. DEC must not issue new gas drilling permits until those regulatory concerns have been fully resolved. That is why the Supplemental GEIS review must be restarted.
The draft SGEIS totally fails to propose a safe method of managing natural gas drilling wastewater and hydrofracking fluid. It simply leaves that task to localities. Improper management of natural gas drilling wastewater has already caused massive toxic pollution impacts. The SGEIS must solve this disposal problem before new natural gas drilling permits are issued.
DEC is woefully understaffed to cope with existing natural gas drilling problems. Only 17 staff are available to regulate nearly 7,000 existing natural gas wells. New gas drilling permits must not be issued until the SGEIS solves this problem.
The SGEIS fails to address critical issues associated with strict clean up liability, natural gas spill reporting, private right of legal action, insurance coverage and unfunded local government mandates. All those concerns must be addressed prior to the issuance of new gas drilling permits.
Tom N
-
Governor Paterson
I am writing for the immediate withdrawal of the draft Supplemental GEIS because it is utterly inadequate to safeguard New York's environment and public health.
The Department of Environmental Conservation's (DEC) own spill reports document existing regulations have failed to prevent or to require the clean up of hundreds of natural gas and oil drilling problems involving fires, explosions, polluted drinking water wells, home evacuations and massive drilling waste water releases. DEC must not issue new gas drilling permits until those regulatory concerns have been fully resolved. That is why the Supplemental GEIS review must be restarted.
The draft SGEIS totally fails to propose a safe method of managing natural gas drilling waste water and hydro-fracking fluid. It simply leaves that task to localities. Improper management of natural gas drilling waste water has already caused massive toxic pollution impacts. The SGEIS must solve this disposal problem before new natural gas drilling permits are issued.
DEC is woefully understaffed to cope with existing natural gas drilling problems. Only 17 staff are available to regulate nearly 7,000 existing natural gas wells. New gas drilling permits must not be issued until the SGEIS solves this problem.
The SGEIS fails to address critical issues associated with strict clean up liability, natural gas spill reporting, private right of legal action, insurance coverage and unfunded local government mandates. All those concerns must be addressed prior to the issuance of new gas drilling permits.
I heard today on the news that the drilling would create many new jobs in NYS, That the drilling was an environmental issue. I have to wonder how many business will be harmed by the changes in the environment, the availability of clean water and the screne country that is so notable in this same area. Businesses such as wineries, farms, bed and breakfasts, maple farms, tthe tourist industries and many many more. I truly hope you will wiithdraw the Supplemental GEIS and stop the drilling permits until more questions on how we will clean up after the drilling and how will we pay for this.
Sincerely
Lydia E
- Dear Governor Patterson:
I am not opposed to gas drilling in the Marcellus shale BUT ONLY if it can be conclusively proven that
* there is no danger to our drinking water supply
* there is no danger to our air quality
* noise, traffic, erosion, and other problems are properly mitigated and monitored
* there is adequate enforcement by the DEC and its staff to assure safety and repairs of damage done
* there is adequate assurance in the form of bonds to remove equipment and pipelines.The current GEIS (1992) is woefully out-of-date as a governing approval for gas drilling. The draft Supplemental GEIS is not much better. For one example, cumulative impacts are virtually ignored in both documents. For another example, there is no treatment of the devaluing financial impact on real property near gas wells and the resulting problems created for local governmental units that rely on real property taxes. And most importantly, I do not find assuring answers to the points listed above.
The SGEIS fails to provide an acceptable road map for drilling. It must be completely redone with better data, more complete investigations, more thought to the potential risks involved.
Please take a step back and get the job done well or not at all.
Please do not be reckless with our health and safety.
Thank you,
Harry L
- Dear Governor Patterson:
Please withdraw the 9/30/09 draft Supplemental Environmental Impact Statement (dSGEIS) for Marcellus Shale Well Permit Issuance for Horizontal Drilling and High-Volume Hydrofracking.
Hydrofracking is wrong on so many different levels -- but the environmental impact can only be negative. My family and I live the area and have since 1978, and I hope my grand children will too. Please do the right thing and stop this.
Sincerely,
Robert C
- Dear Mr. Paterson,
I am deeply concerned about the potential drillings near my family's hometown of Ithaca. The draft SGEIS clearly does not guarantee the safety of our drinking water, or the sensitive ecosphere in general.
Upstate New York has a beautiful and amazing wildlife, and good living standards - both are threatened by the prospect of drilling for gas in an environmentally irresponsible way.
Please understand that I am not against drilling for natural gas. But I am strongly against this violent approach to fast profits, which I find compares well to the practice of dynamite fishing - it's quick, reckless, profitable, and extremely destructive to the ecosystem.
Natural gas is positive for the environment only if we extract it in a safe and responsible way. This brute force approach is dangerous and foolish, as has been demonstrated by numerous documented accidents - many of which were never addressed, due to lack of liability.
Please protect our natural resources - withdraw the draft SGEIS before it's too late.
The sooner it is withdrawn, the sooner a new review can start.
Thank You for your time.
Best Regards,
Rasmus & Vanessa S - Dear Governor Paterson,
I am writing to urge you to withdraw the dSGEIS. It is wholly inadequate to safeguard public and environmental health, and if put into place will represent a major, catastrophic failure of government to up carry out it's primary responsibility to New York's citizens. Please do not allow this dangerously flawed document to become part of your legacy.
Once lost, we will never regain a healthy water supply, clean air and the remarkably rich natural environment with which Upstate New York is blessed.
Respectfully,
David O. B
-
The draft supplemental GEIS must be withdrawn as it cannot safeguard NY's
public health. DEC's own spill reports document 100s of oil drilling & natural gas
fires, explosions, polluted wells, home evacuations, & drilling wastewater releases.
The draft supplemental GEIS fails to propose any methods for safe managing of
hydrofracking fluid & natural gas drilling wastewater.Only 17 DEC staff now try to regulate almost 7,000 natural gas wells; new gas
drilling permits must not be reissued. The supplemental GEIS fails to address:
cleanup liability, spill reporting, private legal action, insurance coverage, &
unfunded local government mandates.For all of these reasons the draft supplemental GEIS must be withdrawn.
I write as an emeritus member of the American Institute of Biological Sciences
(AIBS). - Dear Governor Paterson,
Our irreplaceable clean water supply and ecosystem must not be endangered for short term profiteering: the draft environmental impact statement proposal for gas drilling in Marcellus shale in NYS is completely unacceptable. Many documented cases of spills, contamination and other worse hazards to public health and our precious & invaluable natural environment demonstrate that our current system cannot cope with this deeply dangerous hydraulic fracturing process.
The use of huge amounts of water then requiring disposal as wastewater, the transport and injection of carcinogenic hydrofracking fluid, potential explosions, and even seismic dislocations pose imminent threats to the people of this state, and your responsibility is to protect our wellbeing.
I respectfully request and urgently demand that this demonstrably disaster-prone method not be permitted here. We can see the destructive results elsewhere, and our longterm health and safety must be given highest consideration. We are blessed with water and land resources and must not squander these even in the face of financial temptations. The realistic likely deleterious impact on our environment in the long run could leave us with ruin that no amounts of money could set right.
The people of this state have a right to good governance and stewardship of our land. Please act with all due care and commitment to our future: Withdraw the draft supplement EIS proposed on 9/30/09, particularly in light of the entirely inadequate regulatory staffing available to oversee an aggressive hydrofracking industry.
Thank you!
-- Eve - Dear Governor Paterson,
I'm writing from Ithaca to strongly encourage you to withdraw the dSGEIS.
I know it seems like Marcellus shale drilling and hydro-fracking would be a good solution to Upstate's very real economic troubles. But we have to acknowledge that it's a huge gamble. It could be that we never have any leaks or any trouble at all. Historically this has not proven to be likely with drilling, but in theory it could happen. However, the cost of cleaning up leaks can spiral astronomically just to have clean drinking water.
My family is entirely dependent on Cornell financially. In the event of a leak, who would send their child to a university where the water is tainted? What new faculty would come? In fact, who would come when there is a very real chance of a toxic leak? Ithaca (and certainly my family) cannot afford for Cornell to have serious trouble finding students and faculty. I'm sure other businesses and their employees throughout Upstate have similar fears about how drilling would affect their livelihoods--whether there are actual leaks or just threats of leaks.
We're already struggling to make it Upstate. Let's not make it worse by gambling on oil companies and throwing the health of ourselves and our children as well as the health of our economy at their mercy. They're not prepared to manage that responsibility while simultaneously stripping the area of its natural resources for profit. I love this area and want to keep it safe. I think we all do. This isn't a good gamble. Even if it works out to be temporarily safe, the threat of pollution is always there--which impacts how much others will invest in this area. So even if we win this bet, we still lose. Let's skip this one and find something safer that is in the interest of the people who live here.
Thank you so much for all you do,
Jenna G -
Dear Governor Paterson,
Thank you so much for having the DEC do the dSGEIS addressing the natural gas drilling issue. However, the DEC has failed to protect my environment. They require nothing of the companies who will come here to rape our land. My well is not protected. My pond is not protected. The area's water table is not protected. Our water is our very life. The DEC has not protected me from the industry's air pollution. Our hills will hang blue with their diesel pollution. The DEC has not protected me from the noise that their drilling operations and their trucks will create. The DEC has not protected me from the chemicals in their drilling process, nor the waste water that comes up from their drilling process. The DEC has not protected me from the NORM that comes up in their waste. This waste is reported to be 8 times more radioactive than that coming up down in Pennsylvania. Our health care costs will rise from illnesses related to polluted air, polluted water, and radioactivity.We will not be able to sue multinational companies who apparently own the DEC. Please get some new people into the DEC and start over with a new way to protect the citizens of this state. Please protect us from this industry's lies. We are not all ignorant here. We are on the Internet all over this nation, and we know what they have done to people in other states for the sake of their very large short term profits.
Eileen H
-
Honorable David A. Paterson,
In my humble opinion it would be best for all of the citizens of New York
if more time was allowed to make a wise decision on Hydro Fracking with
Slick-water Hydro-fracking chemicals.The Natural gas is not going anywhere and using known toxic chemicals in
the extraction process is unnecessarily dangerous to the environment and
inhabitants of New York State.I believe the energy companies can and will develop ecological means of
extraction if not allowed to do so with the current technology.I do also believe that it is important to drill for gas as we do need the
clean energy and the economic boost for the upstate region.Sincere regards,
Jordan P
-
Greetings:
In only three weeks, nearly 4,500 elected officials, environmental
organizations and citizens have signed the coalition letter
requesting Governor Paterson to withdraw the 9/30/09 draft
Supplemental Environmental Impact Statement (dSGEIS) for Marcellus
Shale Well Permit Issuance for Horizontal Drilling and High-Volume
Hydrofracking.Governor Paterson must immediately withdraw the draft Supplemental
GEIS because it is utterly inadequate to safeguard New York's
environment and public health.The Department of Environmental Conservation's (DEC) own spill
reports document existing regulations have failed to prevent or to
require the clean up of hundreds of natural gas and oil drilling
problems involving fires, explosions, polluted drinking water wells,
home evacuations and massive drilling wastewater releases. DEC must
not issue new gas drilling permits until those regulatory concerns
have been fully resolved. That is why the Supplemental GEIS review
must be restarted.The draft SGEIS totally fails to propose a safe method of managing
natural gas drilling wastewater and hydrofracking fluid. It simply
leaves that task to localities. Improper management of natural gas
drilling wastewater has already caused massive toxic pollution
impacts. The SGEIS must solve this disposal problem before new
natural gas drilling permits are issued.DEC is woefully understaffed to cope with existing natural gas
drilling problems. Only 17 staff are available to regulate nearly
7,000 existing natural gas wells. New gas drilling permits must not
be issued until the SGEIS solves this problem.The SGEIS fails to address critical issues associated with strict
clean up liability, natural gas spill reporting, private right of
legal action, insurance coverage and unfunded local government
mandates. All those concerns must be addressed prior to the issuance
of new gas drilling permits.Governor Paterson has a duty to protect New York's natural resources
and public health. That is why the draft SGEIS must be withdrawn.Susan D
- Dear Governor Paterson:
I am writing to ask you to withdraw the draft Supplemental GEIS on drilling in the Marcellus Shale and other low-permeability gas reservoirs. I also ask that you continue the moratorium on high-volume "slickwater" horizontal drilling in the Marcellus Shale and other low-permeability gas reservoirs in NY until a new, truly comprehensive SGEIS has been developed. I further ask that you reserve judgment on whether large-scale shale gas drilling should go forward at all until you (and the citizens of NY) have had the chance to fully consider the information presented in the new, truly comprehensive SGEIS.
Regrettably, the current draft SGEIS is deficient in many regards. Its most serious deficiency is its failure to create comprehensive models of the cumulative impacts of large-scale shale gas drilling, but there are other deficiencies. For example, the dSGEIS does not seriously address:
• the problem of waste disposal
• the issue of how to safely deal with naturally occurring radioactive materials
(some of the readings listed in Appendix 13 of the dSGEIS are alarmingly high)
• the issue of habitat fragmentation
• the current, terribly inadequate gas well setbacks from homes and waterways
• the danger of fracturing fluid flowing through abandoned, unplugged gas and oil wells
• the effects of the drilling upon residential property values and community character.In addition to the above deficiencies, I am also disappointed at the silence of many of the divisions of the DEC. Where is the input from those who are charged with protecting our water, our air, and our forests?
Finally, I am deeply concerned that the seriously understaffed DEC cannot properly oversee existing gas wells, let alone the thousands of additional gas wells that are likely to be drilled to extract shale gas. Indeed, according to the DEC's own records, many existing cases of contamination related to gas drilling have not yet been properly addressed, yet we seem poised to move, full speed ahead, into an era of massive drilling. This makes no sense to me.
I grew up in Pennsylvania, in a region that was still suffering the disastrous effects of coal mining. As a child, I thought it was "normal" to hear news about mine cave-ins and fires, and to see glowing mountains of coal by night and strip-mined wastelands by day. When my husband and I moved to upstate NY, I felt as if I had moved to paradise. We have spent 25 very happy years here, and we were looking forward to spending our retirement here as well. Now, because of the proposed shale gas drilling, we are thinking of moving away from a home we love.
I understand that NY is in desperate need of revenue, but a short-term fix that creates long-term problems is not a real solution. High-volume, slickwater hydrofracturing has already caused numerous problems around the country, and the current dSGEIS offers no real protections for our area.
Please, Governor Paterson, do not bet our homes and health on this flawed draft SGEIS. Please withdraw the dSGEIS and order a new, unbiased, truly comprehensive study of this important issue.
Sincerely,
Mary S - Dear Governor Paterson:
I would never again vote for a political party that supports gas drilling and fracking.
To show you are an intelligent, ethical person, I urge you to consider the following:
The Department of Environmental Conservation's (DEC) own spill reports document existing regulations have failed to prevent or to require the clean up hundreds of natural gas and oil drilling problems involving fires, explosions, polluted drinking water wells, home evacuations and massive drilling wastewater releases. DEC must not issue new gas drilling permits until those regulatory concerns have been fully resolved. That is why the Supplemental GEIS review must be restarted
--
Jean A - Dear Governor Paterson,
I am writing on behalf of my husband and daughter, as well as
myself. We are all registered democrats in the state of New York.We three have been working very hard to educate our friends,
neighbors, and families, as to not only the catastrophic
environmental consequences that hydraulic fracturing in the Marcellus
Shale would result in, but also the irresponsibly inadequate
provisions of the draft Supplemental Generic Environmental Impact
Statement for dealing with or preventing those catastrophes.
Although claims have been made by the gas companies, the Department
of Environmental Conservation, and others, that the risks are either
non-existent, or manageable, anyone who has looked into the reality
of vertical slick water hydro-fracking (not to mention the even more
disastrous horizontal fracking) knows that the cost tin terms of
availability of clean water, the impact on human health, the impact
on the health of wild flora and fauna, the noise pollution, the air
pollution, the negative impacts on the tourism economy, the negative
impacts on the farming, particularly organic farming, economy, and
the cost of infra-structure repair and environmental clean-up and
radioactive waste clean-up borne by the tax payer put this technology
well within the realm of the criminally insane.Furthermore, the implications of these large companies having the
power to coerce cooperation, and then leaving us with worthless real
estate is equal to giving private corporations the right of eminent
domain and the atomic bomb at the same time. A frightening thought,
though tragically, not implausible as the corporations already
effectively own the government. Please stand strong against this
undemocratic, unpatriotic tidal wave.The DEC is currently experiencing a shortage of staff (17) who are
apparently under-motivated as far as even dealing with problems
created by existing wells (which number around 7,000.)We know a number of people who are seriously talking about moving out
of state, and, of course, taking their tax dollars with them. If the
dSGEIS is not withdrawn immediately in order to safe guard
environmental and public health, my family may be joining the exodus.Thank you very much for considering our comments,
Erica C., Jeremy C., & Sasha H
- Dear Governor David A. Paterson and staff,
Please give this issue the attention it deserves. It's far too important and the stakes are far too high for this to be a challenging decision for you to make; the choice is clear, sir.
I ask that you immediately withdraw the draft Supplemental GEIS because it is utterly inadequate to safeguard New York's environment and public health.
* The Department of Environmental Conservation's (DEC) own spill reports document existing regulations have failed to prevent or to require the clean up of hundreds of natural gas and oil drilling problems involving fires, explosions, polluted drinking water wells, home evacuations and massive drilling wastewater releases. DEC must not issue new gas drilling permits until those regulatory concerns have been fully resolved. That is why the Supplemental GEIS review must be restarted.
* The draft SGEIS totally fails to propose a safe method of managing natural gas drilling wastewater and hydrofracking fluid. It simply leaves that task to localities. Improper management of natural gas drilling wastewater has already caused massive toxic pollution impacts. The SGEIS must solve this disposal problem before new natural gas drilling permits are issued.
* DEC is woefully understaffed to cope with existing natural gas drilling problems. Only 17 staff are available to regulate nearly 7,000 existing natural gas wells. New gas drilling permits must not be issued until the SGEIS solves this problem.
* The SGEIS fails to address critical issues associated with strict clean up liability, natural gas spill reporting, private right of legal action, insurance coverage and unfunded local government mandates. All those concerns must be addressed prior to the issuance of new gas drilling permits.You have a responsibility to protect New York's natural resources and public health. That is why the draft SGEIS must be withdrawn.
Thanks in advance for making the right decision, sir.
Respectfully,
-Ben O -
Dear Governer Patterson,
Please immediately withdraw the draft Supplemental GEIS It is totally inadequate in protecting New York's environment and public health.
Thank you.Respectfully,
Linda S
-
Governor Paterson,
As a citizen of New York's southern tier I am working with my town Board
to formulate comment to the DEC's dSGEIS. However, I am Very concerned by
the short period of time we have been given to respond to this industry
friendly document. In 1992 when the original GEIS was released, citizens
and municipal leaders were given 6 months or more to comment on the
draft. As Governor you are charged with the safekeeping of not only the
citizens of New York but also the safekeeping of the land. The federal
EPA has recently been charged with studying the safety of drilling
techniques that will be practiced in NY if the SGEIS is codified. To
unleash this technique on the citizens and the land of NY before its
safety has been determined would be utmost folly.In strongest possible terms, I urge you to withdraw the SGIES and
maintain a moratorium on slick-water, high-volume hydraulic fracturing
technique in NY until such time as the EPA's peer reviewed study is
complete.Respectfully,
Marie M -
Honorable Governor Paterson,
I urge you to immediately withdraw the draft Supplemental GEIS because
it is utterly inadequate to safeguard New York's environment and
public health.The Department of Environmental Conservation's (DEC) own spill reports
document that existing regulations have failed to prevent or to
require the clean up of hundreds of natural gas and oil drilling
problems involving fires, explosions, polluted drinking water wells,
home evacuations and massive drilling wastewater releases. DEC must
not issue new gas drilling permits until those regulatory concerns
have been fully resolved. That is why the Supplemental GEIS review
must be restarted.The draft SGEIS totally fails to propose a safe method of managing
natural gas drilling wastewater and hydrofracking fluid. It simply
leaves that task to localities. Improper management of natural gas
drilling wastewater has already caused massive toxic pollution
impacts. The SGEIS must solve this disposal problem before new
natural gas drilling permits are issued.As you know, DEC is woefully understaffed to cope with existing
natural gas drilling problems. Only 17 staff are available to
regulate nearly 7,000 existing natural gas wells. New gas drilling
permits must not be issued until the SGEIS solves this problem.The SGEIS fails to address critical issues associated with strict
clean up liability, natural gas spill reporting, private right of
legal action, insurance coverage and unfunded local government
mandates. All those concerns must be addressed prior to the issuance
of new gas drilling permits.As Governor, you have a duty to protect New York's natural resources
and public health. That is why the draft SGEIS must be withdrawn.Respectfully,
Sandra B - Governor Patterson,
As a concerned resident of Central New York, residing within the area
where hydrofracking is being considered to take place, I urge you to
withdraw the 9/30/09 draft Supplemental Environmental Impact
Statement (dSGEIS) for Marcellus Shale Well Permit Issuance for
Horizontal Drilling and High-Volume Hydrofracking.There have been major problems with water contamination and other
issues where this process has already begun in other states....and
from what I've read, the companies are not held accountable when
problems arise, and it's up to the homeowners to deal with the
aftermath. This isn't the wild wild west. We need to have stringent
environmental rules and regulations in place BEFORE we give the go
ahead. I realize the economic promise of this endeavor is extremely
enticing, but let's not rush into this. Let's be responsible. The
risks must be studied very carefully and dealt with.Thank you for your consideration,
Ann P. & Steven P.
- Dear Gov. Patterson: The dSGEIS issued Sept. 2009 is inadequate and must be withdrawn. I hope you will act to protect the health of the Southern Tier environment and its residents. thank you. Richard H
-
Dear Governor Paterson:
Please immediately withdraw the draft Supplemental GEIS because it is utterly inadequate to safeguard New York's environment and public health.
The Department of Environmental Conservation's (DEC) own spill reports document existing regulations have failed to prevent or to require the clean up of hundreds of natural gas and oil drilling problems involving fires, explosions, polluted drinking water wells, home evacuations and massive drilling wastewater releases. DEC must not issue new gas drilling permits until those regulatory concerns have been fully resolved. That is why the Supplemental GEIS review must be restarted.
The draft SGEIS totally fails to propose a safe method of managing natural gas drilling wastewater and hydrofracking fluid. It simply leaves that task to localities. Improper management of natural gas drilling wastewater has already caused massive toxic pollution impacts. The SGEIS must solve this disposal problem before new natural gas drilling permits are issued.
DEC is woefully unprepared to cope with existing natural gas drilling problems.
The SGEIS fails to address critical issues associated with strict clean up liability, natural gas spill reporting, private right of legal action, insurance coverage and unfunded local government mandates. All those concerns must be addressed prior to the issuance of new gas drilling permits.
You, as Governor have a duty to protect New York's natural resources and public health. That is why the draft SGEIS must be withdrawn.Sincerely,
Ann E
-
Dear Governor Patterson,
Please withdraw the current, deeply flawed dSGEIS for Marcellus Shale natural gas drilling. Please allow the EPA to conduct a thorough investigation of the entire process, both existing and proposed, so that we avert a potential environmental and personal disaster. We need real science to tell us about the risks of fracking.
Thank you.
Bill B - The DEC dSGEIS is all smoke and mirrors and offers no protection from water, air, noise and light pollution for residents. Please remove this deeply flawed document from further consideration. The underlying law should be rewritten to encourage energy conservation and alternative, nonpolluting forms of energy production.
The DEC Division of Mineral Resources should be restructured and renamed the Department of Energy Extraction. The Department of Environmental Conservation should be returned to its original charge of Environmental Conservation. The County Departments of Health, the restructured DEC and local zoning boards and nearby residents should have rights of review and approval over all gas well siting and drilling practices.
Shale gas drilling and hydrofracturing should be banned from New York State as being highly dangerous, polluting and unacceptably energy intensive.
Peter H
- I'm not opposed to natural gas per se but please please WITHDRAW 9/30/09 draft Supplemental Environmental Impact Statement. It is FAR FROM ADEQUATE in it's regulations. I oppose all forms of horizontal "hydrofracking". Put simply, if the ground water in our area gets polluted our economy will be ruined.
Respectfully,
Nathan R
- We respectfully request that you withdraw the dSGEIS for Marcellus Shale Well Horizontal Drilling/hydrofracking for New York State, specifically in the Finger Lakes Region. We, too, as many of our area neighbors did, signed a lease for drilling on our property back in May of 2005; however we were all unaware at that time of the environmental issues caused by this drilling. When our lease expires in May of 2010 we will not sign another lease. Thank you for your consideration of our request.
Robert and Olympia M
- Dear Governor
Please immediately withdraw the draft Supplemental GEIS because it is utterly inadequate to safeguard New York's environment and public health.
The Department of Environmental Conservation's (DEC) own spill reports document existing regulations have failed to prevent or to require the clean up of hundreds of natural gas and oil drilling problems involving fires, explosions, polluted drinking water wells, home evacuations and massive drilling wastewater releases. DEC must not issue new gas drilling permits until those regulatory concerns have been fully resolved. That is why the Supplemental GEIS review must be restarted.
The draft SGEIS totally fails to propose a safe method of managing natural gas drilling wastewater and hydrofracking fluid. It simply leaves that task to localities. Improper management of natural gas drilling wastewater has already caused massive toxic pollution impacts. The SGEIS must solve this disposal problem before new natural gas drilling permits are issued.
DEC is woefully understaffed to cope with existing natural gas drilling problems. Only 17 staff are available to regulate nearly 7,000 existing natural gas wells. New gas drilling permits must not be issued until the SGEIS solves this problem.
The SGEIS fails to address critical issues associated with strict clean up liability, natural gas spill reporting, private right of legal action, insurance coverage and unfunded local government mandates. All those concerns must be addressed prior to the issuance of new gas drilling permits.
Regards
David G., M.D. -
Dear Governor Paterson,
As a resident of Ithaca, New York, I am very concerned with the issue of hydrofracking and the proposed draft of the Supplemental GEIS.
I ask that you immediately withdraw the draft Supplemental GEIS because it is utterly inadequate to safeguard New York's environment and public health.
The Department of Environmental Conservation's (DEC) own spill reports document existing regulations have failed to prevent or to require the clean up of hundreds of natural gas and oil drilling problems involving fires, explosions, polluted drinking water wells, home evacuations and massive drilling wastewater releases. DEC must not issue new gas drilling permits until those regulatory concerns have been fully resolved. That is why the Supplemental GEIS review must be restarted.
The draft SGEIS totally fails to propose a safe method of managing natural gas drilling wastewater and hydrofracking fluid. It simply leaves that task to localities. Improper management of natural gas drilling wastewater has already caused massive toxic pollution impacts. The SGEIS must solve this disposal problem before new natural gas drilling permits are issued.
DEC is woefully understaffed to cope with existing natural gas drilling problems. Only 17 staff are available to regulate nearly 7,000 existing natural gas wells. New gas drilling permits must not be issued until the SGEIS solves this problem.
The SGEIS fails to address critical issues associated with strict clean up liability, natural gas spill reporting, private right of legal action, insurance coverage and unfunded local government mandates. All those concerns must be addressed prior to the issuance of new gas drilling permits.
Thank you for considering my concerns. I look forward to reading about new developments as they take place.
Sincerely,
Barbara C
-
Dear Governor Paterson,
As a born and raised New Yorker currently getting my degree in environmental public policy, I urge you to withdraw the draft Supplemental GEIS because it does not protect New York's environment and public health.
As it currently stands, the dSGEIS does not prevent massive toxic pollution impacts as well as the threat of fires, explosions and wastewater releases. It does not address clean-up liability, natural gas spill reporting, private right of legal action, insurance coverage or unfunded local government mandates.
While there may be economic profits to be made from natural gas extraction, the fracking technique proposed combined with this minimal impact statement threaten the very quality of life in upstate New York, which depends largely on tourism, not to mention the basic guarantee of safe drinking water.
Failure to revoke the impact statement is a failure to protect your citizens and would be shameful, and I know that my vote depends upon it.
Thank you for your consideration,
Sincerely,
Sonya S
-
Dear Gov. Paterson,
I urge you to withdraw the current, inadequate dGEIS, continue the moratorium on gas drilling permits and wait until after the EPA study is released to commission a new dGEIS with much stronger oversight and more local control.
As a resident of Tompkins County, I am very concerned about gas drilling in this region. There have been credible reports of water, soil and air contamination in other communities. These non-renewable resources are necessary for life and must be protected. This is non-negotiable.
Other considerations include this region’s tourist industry, which would be put at risk by a shift to a more industrial character, and the area’s infrastructure – roads and bridges - which will receive ongoing punishment by large, industrial vehicles and equipment for which they were not designed. Who will offset these costs? If drilling is to happen here, it must be determined in advance who is responsible for supplying these revenues, for how long and the mechanism by which funds would be allocated.
The 800 page document that was released by the DEC proposes some safeguards, but does not map out a strategy for reliable oversight and enforcement. That is essential to a successful outcome. I also do not see how the agency as it is currently staffed and funded could carry out these essential functions. Since that is the case, who WOULD carry out these functions?
It also must be made clear who is liable for every foreseeable accident and how restoration/cleanup would proceed.
In light of the fact that the sGEIS does not adequately address the above points it makes no sense to move forward with gas drilling permits at this time.
Finally, Congress just directed the EPA to study the effects of hydro-fracking on water quality. It is clear to me that no further steps can be taken toward drilling until the results of the EPA study are released and taken into consideration when designing safeguards.
Once water, air and soil are contaminated, it is almost impossible to make them clean again. For all our sakes and for generations to come, if drilling does happen, it must be done with deliberation and extreme care. That will require strong oversight and more time.
Lynne J
-
Dear Governor Paterson,
As a 30+ year resident of New York State I am writing to implore you to withdraw the draft Supplemental Generic Environmental Impact Statement.
As a high school science teacher I often remarked to my students that the wars of their generation would not be fought over oil, they would be fought over water. Now the war has come to New York State, an unlikely battlefield given the relative abundance of this precious resource.The water war of New York State will be your burden and your legacy, for if the dSGEIS is accepted as it stands and drilling permits are issued, it will be you who allowed it to happen. It will be you who I will hold directly responsible.
This war has the real potential to decimate our natural resources and destroy our local economies. This war will be fought in back yards and schoolyards, in forests and farms, on roadways and airways. This war will divide neighbors and families, locals and migrants, industries and small business. Such divisions among communities can be avoided if you insist on real protection against the inevitable mistakes and accidents. The gas in the Marcellus Shale has been here for millions of years and it isn't going anywhere. All that you need to do in order to preserve the health of our land and prevent the division of our communities is to allow time for real protections to be written into the dSGEIS.-Once we know what is in the Fracking fluid we can test for it and hold industry accountable for spills that contaminate our waterways and aquifers.
-Once the gas companies know that they are liable for mistakes and accidents then they will do everything to make sure that mistakes and accidents are held to an absolute minimum.
-With more time we could demand that the gas companies pay for well testing within one mile of their drill sites so that landowners can protect their water resource without added financial burden.
-With more time the DEC will be able to hire enough people to monitor and police the drilling sites because the current number of 17 is disgracefully inadequate to meet even current needs.
-With more time we can come up with ways to manage wastewater that doesn't include spreading it on rural roads or trucking it hundreds of miles, practically inviting accidents on the roadways.
-If there was time we could draft a plan to maintain public infrastructure that wouldn't leave the taxpayers holding the bill for repairs precipitated by gas company usage.
-If there was time we could have updated flood plans, updated aquifer maps, and updated maps of natural fractures in the rock as well as mapping of abandoned wells.
This draft Supplemental Generic Environmental Impact Statement must be withdrawn because it threatens the way of life in New York's Southern tier for the long term in return for a one-time tax revenue boost from gas drilling.
You may make decisions based on the political life cycle of a few years. The rest of us in New York make decisions based on our life cycle of decades and that of our children and further generations. I have never been terribly active in New York politics but I can assure you that if this Environmental Impact Statement is allowed to stand then I will do everything in my power to make sure that your days in Albany are nearing their end.
Seth M
- Dear Governor Paterson,
I am writing you from Ithaca, in the heart of the Finger Lakes, because I am concerned about how my drinking water, and my children's drinking water in the future, will be affected by the new hydrofracking method of drilling for natural gas.
I lived in Mexico for a number of years, and know what it is like to have to filter and boil water for drinking and tooth brushing. I have also experienced carrying water from a well up a steep hill for drinking, cooking and bathing. The water situation here could end up worse than that. If Ithaca's water were radioactive, no filter system I could buy could make it safe.
I am a firm believer in science. I am confident that if a safe way can be found of extracting our wonderful natural resource, natural gas, from the Marcellus shale, then scientists and engineers will find it.
I also believe in government. Given strong regulatory law and appropriate staffing levels, I am confident that our state's Department of Environmental Conservation can do a great job of protecting our water resources. Currently, however, our DEC does not have sufficient staffing and resources, and now is naturally not the time to give it the sort of budget increases that would be needed to oversee the new type of drilling.
Natural gas is certainly an attractive alternative energy source, but let's make sure we develop it safely.
The September 30 Draft Supplemental Generic Environmental Impact Statement for Marcellus Shale Well Permit Issuance for Horizontal Drilling and High-Volume Hydrofracking is unacceptable, in that it does not provide for statewide inspection and enforcement. Please withdraw it.Sincerely yours,
Melanie S
- Dear Governor Patterson,
I have recently heard about the draft Supplemental GEIS. As someone
who has grown up in Ithaca, NY , (Ellis Hollow) and plans to return
there for the rest of my life, I want to express my deep concern and
very strong opposition to the Supplemental GEIS. The damage that willbe caused by natural gas drilling in upstate New York (indeed,
anywhere) truly threatens the livelihood of our communities and the
legacy we leave to our children.Can I urge you with whatever strength (political, moral) that I have-
to withdraw the draft Supplemental GEIS. New York's environment andOur public health cannot be safeguarded under its existing regulations.
Gas exploration companies have secured the lease of neighbors who had
absolutely no idea of the risk this drilling presents to the wellbeing
of our families and community. They were invited to sign such leases
without full information under virtually fraudulent conditions. Many
are deeply regretting their actions.I hope that your good judgment and caution and your interest in
preserving the natural resources of upstate New York and the safety
and security of the health of our communities will be brought to bear
on this important issue and that you will withdraw the draftSupplemental GEIS as soon as possible.
Sincerely,
Suzanne K - Dear Governor Paterson,
I am writing to you with a sense of urgency with regards to drilling for natural gas in the Marcellus Shale.
I ask that you immediately withdraw the draft Supplemental GEIS because it is utterly indequate to safeguard New York's environment and public health.
The Department of Environmental Conservation's (DEC) own spill reports document existing regulations have failed to prevent or to require the clean up of hundreds of natural gas and oil drilling problems involving fires, explosions, polluted drinking water wells, home evacuations and massive drilling wastewater releases. DEC must not issue new gas drilling permits until those regulatory concerns have been fully resolved. That is why the Supplemental GEIS review must be restarted.
The draft SGEIS totally fails to propose a safe method of managing natural gas drilling wastewater and hydrofracking fluid. It simply leaves that task to localities. Improper management of natural gas drilling wastewater has already caused massive toxic pollution impacts. The SGEIS must solve this disposal problem before new natural gas drilling permits are issued.
DEC is woefully understaffed to cope with existing natural gas drilling problems. Only 17 staff are available to regulate nearly 7,000 existing natural gas wells. New gas drilling permits must not be issued until the SGEIS solves this problem.
The SGEIS fails to address critical issues associated with strict clean up liability, natural gas spill reporting, private right of legal action, insurance coverage and unfunded local government mandates. All those concerns must be addressed prior to the issuance of new gas drilling permits.
As a resident of upstate New York I experience the beauty of the land each day, enjoy clean well water that is available to me and the abundance of wildlife. The prospect of our communities and environment being exploited by the energy industry and resulting in the destruction of all that is precious here in upstate New York is just too much to bear. New York needs to be a proponent of alternative forms of energy, not supporting our dependence on fossil fuels.
As governor of this great state you have a duty to protect New York's natural resources and public health. That is why the draft SGEIS must be withdrawn.
Regards,
Patricia V
-
Dear Governor Paterson,
Collectively, hundreds, if not thousands, of Tompkins County residents have built a strong and growing foodshed. Not just farmers, but local educators, food advocates, restaurants and retailers have dedicated their life's work to developing our region's foodshed.
This collective effort is not just a good idea, but a way to feed ourselves. It is also a sustainable local economy that is dependent upon the health and well-being of our water, air and soils.
Untold hours of time and many dollars have been spent in this enterprise. Yet, the impact of hydraulic fracturing on the foodshed is absent from the DEC's draft SGEIS document.
It is unimaginable that this thriving segment of our local economy, which operates in concert with our environment, might be a casualty of the national and international energy markets without being given so much as an acknowledgment from the agency charged with examining how land is used in our region and protecting our environment.
As a small-scale farmer and administrator for IthaCan, a network of over 150 home food processors, I urge the Govenor to include the impact of hydraulic fracturing on the region’s foodshed when making his decision. Thank you.
Sincerely,
Kathleen Q
- Dear Governor Paterson,
PLEASE immediately withdraw the draft Supplemental GEIS because it is utterly inadequate to safeguard New York's environment and public health.
Sincerely, Wendy Wolfe
Wendy Wolfe, Ph.D.
Cornell University - Dear Governor Paterson,
I urge you to immediately withdraw the draft Supplemental GEIS because it is utterly inadequate to safeguard New York's environment and public health.
The Department of Environmental Conservation's (DEC) own spill reports document existing regulations have failed to prevent or to require the clean up of hundreds of natural gas and oil drilling problems involving fires, explosions, polluted drinking water wells, home evacuations and massive drilling wastewater releases. DEC must not issue new gas drilling permits until those regulatory concerns have been fully resolved. That is why the Supplemental GEIS review must be restarted.
The draft SGEIS totally fails to propose a safe method of managing natural gas drilling wastewater and hydrofracking fluid. It simply leaves that task to localities. Improper management of natural gas drilling wastewater has already caused massive toxic pollution impacts. The SGEIS must solve this disposal problem before new natural gas drilling permits are issued.
DEC is woefully understaffed to cope with existing natural gas drilling problems. Only 17 staff are available to regulate nearly 7,000 existing natural gas wells. New gas drilling permits must not be issued until the SGEIS solves this problem.
The SGEIS fails to address critical issues associated with strict clean up liability, natural gas spill reporting, private right of legal action, insurance coverage and unfunded local government mandates. All those concerns must be addressed prior to the issuance of new gas drilling permits.
Respectfully yours,
Lynda B
- Dear Governor Patterson,\
Please withdraw the 9/30/09 draft Supplemental Environmental Impact
Statement (dSGEIS) for Marcellus Shale Well Permit Issurance for
Horizontal drilling and High Volume Hydrofracking. This process is
dreadfully damaging to our water supply and to our health as many
toxic residues are causing illnesses in other states that have allowed
the process.Thank you for your time.
Donna M -
Dear Governor Paterson,
I am writing to ask you to withdraw the 9/30/09 draft Supplemental Environmental Impact Statement (dSGEIS) for Marcellus Shale Well Permit Issuance for Horizontal Drilling and High-Volume Hydrofracking, if you can. And you can!Greed and short-sighteness on the part of land owners and the Natural Gas Industry, as well as the need for money to run our State can be surely be taken care of in other ways. And it can. Unfortunately you and we New Yorkers are hampered by our selfish, myopic, and do-nothing representatives in both houses. It's a shame on our state. You, however are a worker and a strong Governor. I totally support and admire your doggedness with those other folks in Albany.
Please think ahead for all of us: you, me and our children and grandchildren. BE BRAVE and do the right thing.Please withdraw dSGEIS. We will all love you for it.
Good luck.
Janice A. R - Dear Governor Patterson,
Please withdraw the draft supplemental GEIS right away. If hydrofrack drilling for gas is going to take place anywhere in New York state, it must be done safely and with the least environmental impact. Environmental problems that have occurred in recent years (spills, explosions, waste water releases, etc.) are serious enough that it should be clear that current regulations and oversight would be woefully inadequate to regulate and monitor the proposed drilling. The SGEIS must also identify safe and secure methods specific to the hydrofracking process, especially with regard to waste water disposal. The DEC also will need many more staff to enforce these regulations if they are to be effective.
I live in Ithaca, a community that places a high value on its environmental beauty, including scenic views, fresh air, abundant wildlife and peaceful places for recreation and to attract tourism. I am very concerned that, with out regulation, we could lose all of these things.
Please act quickly and definitively to keep New York safe and clean.
Eileen M - Dear Governor Paterson,
As a Tioga County landowner (as well as former and future resident), I am respectfully requesting that you withdraw the 9/30/09 draft Supplemental Environmental Impact Statement (dSGEIS) for Marcellus Shale Well Permit Issuance for Horizontal Drilling and High-Volume Hydrofracking.
It has become evident in recent weeks that this plan totally fails to address proper controls on gas drilling hazards to health and environment, and that the DEC is totally understaffed to effect anything close to enforcement for the amount of drilling activity expected.
The SGEIS must solve the hydrofracking disposal problem before new natural gas drilling permits are issued.
Furthermore, it would need to address a myriad of issues including spill cleanup liability, gas spill reporting, insurance coverage, private right of legal action, and unfunded local government mandates.Pursuant to your responsibility to protect New York's natural resources and public health, I urge you to restart the dSEIS process.
Thank you,
Jon D
- To the honorable Governor Paterson:
I respectfully request that you immediately withdraw the draft
Supplemental GEIS because it is utterly inadequate to safeguard New
York's environment and public health.The Department of Environmental Conservation's (DEC) own spill reports
document existing regulations have failed to prevent or to require the
clean up of hundreds of natural gas and oil drilling problems
involving fires, explosions, polluted drinking water wells, home
evacuations and massive drilling wastewater releases. DEC must not
issue new gas drilling permits until those regulatory concerns have
been fully resolved. That is why the Supplemental GEIS review must be
restarted.The draft SGEIS totally fails to propose a safe method of managing
natural gas drilling wastewater and hydrofracking fluid. It simply
leaves that task to localities. Improper management of natural gas
drilling wastewater has already caused massive toxic pollution
impacts. The SGEIS must solve this disposal problem before newnatural gas drilling permits are issued.
DEC is woefully understaffed to cope with existing natural gas
drilling problems. Only 17 staff are available to regulate nearly
7,000 existing natural gas wells. New gas drilling permits must not
be issued until the SGEIS solves this problem.The SGEIS fails to address critical issues associated with strict
clean up liability, natural gas spill reporting, private right of
legal action, insurance coverage and unfunded local governmentmandates. All those concerns must be addressed prior to the issuance
of new gas drilling permits.Please, sir, as governor of our beloved state I beg of you to to
protect New York's natural resources and public health. Please,
withdraw the draft SGEIS.Sincerely,
Gary B -
Dear Governor Paterson
I am writing in reference to Horizontal Drilling and High Volume Hydrofracking of the Marcellus Shale and to ask you to immediately withdraw the draft Supplemental GEIS because it is totally inadequate to safeguard our water, land, air, and public health. In addition, the establishment of drilling sites throughout this region will be a blight on our landscape, severely tax our infrastructure, destroy our local economy and the value of our land.
The SGEIS fails to address critical issues associated with strict clean up liability, natural gas spill reporting, private right of legal action, insurance coverage and unfunded local government mandates. All those concerns must be addressed prior to the issuance of new gas drilling permits. We know already from the DEC’s own spill reports of hundreds of incidents of toxic pollution due to gas drilling. If the SGEIS is not withdrawn and drilling is permitted then this will be your terrible legacy to the State of New York.
As Governor you are entrusted to protect the citizens of New York, our land and our natural resources which are in peril and why the draft SGEIS must be withdrawn.
Sincerely,
Lydian G
- Esteemed Governor Patterson:
Please consider seriously the voices of your fellow New Yorkers. Many have signed petitions requesting that you withdraw the s GEIS for the proposed gas drilling in New York, specifically upstate New York.
We believe the provisions of the sGEIS are inadequate to deal with many of the issues around gas drilling, including waste water treatment, the safety of public watersheds and aquifers and the potential contamination of private wells. For these reasons, I ask that you withdraw the sGEIS and give New York more time (including the EPA) to comment on how gas drilling can be done safely.
Thank you .
Michelle S
- Dear Governor Paterson,
I urgently request that you use your authority as Chief Executive to direct that the draft Supplemental GEIS (SGEIS) be immediately withdrawn in light of its inadequate safeguards for protecting the public health and the environment of our great state and its people.
There are way too many DEC documented cases of hazards that have occurred, and are likely to occur with far greater frequency, if the DEC proceeds to implement the SGEIS as it is presently written. Many of those potential hazards could have disasterous irreversible consequences due to spills, drilling miscalculations, polluted drinking water and the potential for massive wastewater releases. Please Governor Patterson don't let these potentially horrible consequences happen on your watch as Governor - it need not be your legacy.
Just to name a few of the problems with the draft SGEIS: The DEC is woefully understaffed for its overseerer role with only 17 staff to regulate nearly 7,000 existing gas wells not counting the huge numbers of additional wells that may be drilled. The draft GEIS fails to address critical issues such as: strict clean up liability, natural gas spill reporting, private right of legal action, insurance coverage and unfunded local government mandates. All of these concerns must be addressed in a substantive way prior to the issuance of new gas drilling permits.
Before we rush headlong into the drilling bonanza driven more by $$$'s than common sense, please, Governor Patterson, order the DEC to withdraw its draft SGEIS so that our environment and the public health of all of New York State is responsibly protected.
Thank you, Governor.
Bear B.
Mer P. B. - Dear Governor Paterson,
I ask you with much urgency to withdraw the 9/30/09 draft Supplemental Environmental Impact Statement for Marcellus Shale Well Permit Issuance for Hydrofracking. We MUST expand our repertoire of renewable energies NOW and there is no excuse to rely on nonrenewable forms that contribute to pollution.
Please!Victoria J
- Dear Governor Paterson,
I am writing to urge immediately withdraw the draft Supplemental GEIS because it is utterly inadequate to safeguard New York's environment and public health. I am deeply concerned about this situation because of the threats to the purity of our water, environmental degradation, upkeep of our roads and accidental spills of chemicals with no real plan. All this threatens our health and quality of life those of us today and for future generations.
I understand the following factsL
The Department of Environmental Conservation's (DEC) own spill reports document existing regulations have failed to prevent or to require the clean up of hundreds of natural gas and oil drilling problems involving fires, explosions, polluted drinking water wells, home evacuations and massive drilling wastewater releases. DEC must not issue new gas drilling permits until those regulatory concerns have been fully resolved. That is why the Supplemental GEIS review must be restarted.
The draft SGEIS totally fails to propose a safe method of managing natural gas drilling wastewater and hydrofracking fluid. It simply leaves that task to localities. Improper management of natural gas drilling wastewater has already caused massive toxic pollution impacts. The SGEIS must solve this disposal problem before new natural gas drilling permits are issued.
I believe that DEC is woefully understaffed to cope with existing natural gas drilling problems. Only 17 staff are available to regulate nearly 7,000 existing natural gas wells. New gas drilling permits must not be issued until the SGEIS solves this problem.
The SGEIS fails to address critical issues associated with strict clean up liability, natural gas spill reporting, private right of legal action, insurance coverage and unfunded local government mandates. All those concerns must be addressed prior to the issuance of new gas drilling permits.
I believe as governor, there is a duty to protect New York's natural resources and public health. This is why the draft SGEIS must be withdrawn.
Thank you.
Sincerely,
Alice B.
- Dear Gov. Patterson,
I am an active registered voter from Ithaca, NY, and I write today
respectfully to ask you to put a stop to the plans for Marcellus Shale
gas drilling. The drilling would create long-term damage to our health
and to the environment, and is not the only way to improve our economy.Thank you.
Sincerely,
K.E. B
-
To the honorable Governor Paterson:
I respectfully request that you immediately withdraw the draft Supplemental GEIS because it is utterly inadequate to safeguard New York's environment and public health.The Department of Environmental Conservation's (DEC) own spill reports document existing regulations have failed to prevent or to require the clean up of hundreds of natural gas and oil drilling problems involving fires, explosions, polluted drinking water wells, home evacuations and massive drilling wastewater releases. DEC must not issue new gas drilling permits until those regulatory concerns have been fully resolved. That is why the Supplemental GEIS review must be restarted.
The draft SGEIS totally fails to propose a safe method of managing natural gas drilling wastewater and hydrofracking fluid. It simply leaves that task to localities. Improper management of natural gas drilling wastewater has already caused massive toxic pollution impacts. The SGEIS must solve this disposal problem before new natural gas drilling permits are issued.
DEC is woefully understaffed to cope with existing natural gas drilling problems. Only 17 staff are available to regulate nearly 7,000 existing natural gas wells. New gas drilling permits must not be issued until the SGEIS solves this problem.
The SGEIS fails to address critical issues associated with strict clean up liability, natural gas spill reporting, private right of legal action, insurance coverage and unfunded local government mandates. All those concerns must be addressed prior to the issuance of new gas drilling permits.
Please, sir, as governor of our beloved state I beg of you to to protect New York's natural resources and public health. Please, withdraw the draft SGEIS.
Sincerely,Harry A
- Dear Walter,
I've written, and sent, an e mail to Gov. Paterson.
Now I have to write one to Richard Ravitch, the Lieutenant Governor (whom my brother Ned knows slightly).
best,
Cynthia
- Dear Governor Paterson,
I believe that we living in New York cannot afford to take the extreme environmental risks involved in natural gas drilling in the Marcellus Shale.
I am therefore requesting that you withdraw the draft Supplemental GEIS as it in no way adequately protects the environment and the public's health and welfare from the risks involved in this type of gas extraction.
Sincerely,
Peter T
-
Dear Governor Paterson:
I strongly urge you to immediately withdraw the draft Supplemental GEIS because it is utterly inadequate to safeguard New York's environment and public health.
The Department of Environmental Conservation's (DEC) own spill reports document existing regulations have failed to prevent or to require the clean up of hundreds of natural gas and oil drilling problems involving fires, explosions, polluted drinking water wells, home evacuations and massive drilling wastewater releases. DEC must not issue new gas drilling permits until those regulatory concerns have been fully resolved. That is why the Supplemental GEIS review must be restarted.
The draft SGEIS totally fails to propose a safe method of managing natural gas drilling wastewater and hydrofracking fluid. It simply leaves that task to localities. Improper management of natural gas drilling wastewater has already caused massive toxic pollution impacts. The SGEIS must solve this disposal problem before new natural gas drilling permits are issued.
DEC is woefully understaffed to cope with existing natural gas drilling problems. Only 17 staff are available to regulate nearly 7,000 existing natural gas wells. New gas drilling permits must not be issued until the SGEIS solves this problem.
The SGEIS fails to address critical issues associated with strict clean up liability, natural gas spill reporting, private right of legal action, insurance coverage and unfunded local government mandates. All those concerns must be addressed prior to the issuance of new gas drilling permits.
I need to emphasize and repeat that you have a duty to protect New York's natural resources and public health. This is why you must withdraw the draft SGEIS. I expect to hear from you on this matter.
Sincerely,
Anthony D - Dear Governor Paterson:
As a deeply concerned citizen of New York State I urge you to immediately withdraw the draft Supplemental GEIS because it is utterly inadequate to safeguard New York's environment and public health. Especially at this time of severe budget crisis it is unthinkable that New York State should consider incurring a risk to public health and safety of such proportions.
The Department of Environmental Conservation's (DEC) own spill reports document existing regulations have failed to prevent or to require the clean up of hundreds of natural gas and oil drilling problems involving fires, explosions, polluted drinking water wells, home evacuations and massive drilling wastewater releases. DEC must not issue new gas drilling permits until those regulatory concerns have been fully resolved. That is why the Supplemental GEIS review must be restarted.
The draft SGEIS totally fails to propose a safe method of managing natural gas drilling wastewater and hydrofracking fluid. It simply leaves that task to localities. Improper management of natural gas drilling wastewater has already caused massive toxic pollution impacts. The SGEIS must solve this disposal problem before new natural gas drilling permits are issued.
DEC is woefully understaffed to cope with existing natural gas drilling problems. Only 17 staff are available to regulate nearly 7,000 existing natural gas wells. New gas drilling permits must not be issued until the SGEIS solves this problem.
The SGEIS fails to address critical issues associated with strict clean up liability, natural gas spill reporting, private right of legal action, insurance coverage and unfunded local government mandates. All those concerns must be addressed prior to the issuance of new gas drilling permits.
Sincerely yours,
Nancy G - Dear Governor Patterson,
I urge you to withdraw the deeply flawed dSGEIS that is in place now. Please do not permit drilling to commence at least until after the EPA has conducted as thorough an independent, scientific investigation as possible of all the implications of water fracking or horizontal drilling in the Marcellus Shale regions of New York. Too many people have signed up to cede their land to possible environmental degradation (or disaster in some cases, no doubt---unless don't you consider permanently ruining someone's water supply disastrous) without the slightest idea what they're doing except being promised a lot of money. Please protect us from naked greed!
Sincerely,
Bill B
- Dear Governor Paterson,
I respectfully urge you immediately to withdraw the Marcellus Shale gas drilling draft Supplemental GEIS because I believe it is utterly inadequate to safeguard New York's environment and public health.
The Department of Environmental Conservation's (DEC) own spill reports document existing regulations have failed to prevent or to require the clean up hundreds of natural gas and oil drilling problems involving fires, explosions, polluted drinking water wells, home evacuations and massive drilling wastewater releases. DEC must not issue new gas drilling permits until those regulatory concerns have been fully resolved. That is why the Supplemental GEIS review must be restarted.
The draft SGEIS fails to propose a safe method of managing natural gas drilling wastewater and hydrofracking fluid. It simply leaves that task to localities. Improper management of natural gas drilling wastewater has already caused massive toxic pollution impacts. The SGEIS must solve this disposal problem before new natural gas drilling permits are issued.
DEC is woefully understaffed to cope with existing natural gas drilling problems. Only 17 staff are available to regulate nearly 7,000 existing natural gas wells. New gas drilling permits must not be issued until the SGEIS solves this problem.
The SGEIS fails to address critical issues associated with strict clean up liability, natural gas spill reporting, private right of legal action, insurance coverage and unfunded local government mandates. All those concerns must be addressed prior to the issuance of new gas drilling permits.
Sincerely,
Jeffrey M. R - Governor Paterson---
As a citizen of Western New York I wish to convey my request that you do NOT allow Hydro Fracking or any similar process for gas drilling to commence in our region. I do not want the water, soil and air to become polluted, ruined, contaminated. I live very near Catharine Creek and Schlumberger has already dispensed contaminated water into that water way! The gas drilling companies are pushing their way into our community and they do not care about our health and welfare. And it appears your office is helping them.
I am furious about this and I will take every measure and action to stop this assault on the people of our community and on our environment.
I vote. I’m a USMC veteran and I own a business here in New York and I employ people here. If you do not take action to stop Hydro Fracking I will work to my utmost capacity and with all my resources to ensure that you are never elected to any office. Yes I am that angry about the prospect of Hydro Fracking in our region and that determined to stop it. Moreover, I can tell you that most people in this region are very upset about how NY state government has not done a through job of safeguarding us from this deadly Hydro Fracking process.
Hydro Fracking is far too risky, far too many problems have occurred in other states where it has been allowed, and we cannot be irresponsible and allow it to ruin our lives here!
Sincerely,
Sam M
- Dear Governor Patterson,
I implore you to withdraw the DEC Draft SGEIS on Horizontal Gas Drilling, High Volume Hyrofracturing and Production and declare a one year minimum continuation of the statewide moratorium on gas drilling and high volume hydrofracturing, until such time as the document can be rewritten to provide adequate protections to the environment and the citizens of the State. As presented, the DSGEIS fails to adequately address numerous aspects that would provide those protections.
Before any drilling and production may commence, you must direct the Commissioner of DEC to completely rewrite the DSGEIS and require that it includes and details:
Fully adequate environmental and community safeguards taking into account cumulative impacts of this type of drilling, hyrofracturing and gas production. There must be a clear plan for fully assessing and mitigating the cumulative impacts of gas drilling and extraction on water, air, land use and values, forests, plants, animals, people and community character
A clear plan for DEC inclusion and collaboration of local government and communities in reviewing all aspects of gas drilling and production including location and density of all drilling pads and bores, central storage and support facilities, compressor stations, pipelines, etc.
A ban gas well drilling in the floodplain
The final SGEIS must require that gas companies adhere to all requirements of Federal Clean Water and Air Legislation
A complete ban on the use of any known toxic chemicals in fracking fluids
A clear plan with specified limitations and community safeguards for any and all water withdrawals that protects and prevents depletion of local water sources, public and private
A clear plan, requirements and gas company liability for handling, storing, tracking, transporting and processing all waste including any drilling and fracking fluid materials, and all toxic chemicals, gases, minerals and radiation produced or released in the process, with clear protocols for each
A clear plan and requirements for fully protecting all aquifers, public and private drinking water sources and required pre drilling and ongoing test well monitoring at each well site and along all horizontal bores as well as pre and ongoing testing of any public or private water sources within one mile of well sites and bores.
Clearly specified gas company financial responsibility for all water source monitoring with DEC responsibility to conduct all monitoring or oversee independent contracting of itA clear plan and requirements for preventing any and all releases of toxic gases into the air including gas company responsibility for collecting and appropriately processing any and all gases produced during all phases drilling, hydrofracturing and ongoing production as well as clearly specified gas company financial responsibility for all air quality monitoring with DEC responsibility to conduct all monitoring or oversee independent contracting of it
A clear plan for assessing and mitigating community impacts of all aspects of gas drilling and production
There must be a specific assessment of the impacts of related heavy truck and machinery traffic on local roads and bridges with pre drilling and ongoing assessments as well as clearly specified gas company liability for the costs of any and all needed repairs
There must be a specific assessment of the impacts and mitigation of all emissions of trucks and related drilling and production machinery
All accidents related to gas drilling and production need to be regulated with clearly specified liability and mitigation requirements.
The DEC must promulgate accompanying regulations with appropriate rule making procedures covering all of the above, not simply suggest conditions. Any and all costs of implementing and monitoring DEC Regulations and requirements must be borne by the gas companies. There must be a clear DEC plan for adequate staffing and support for regulatory oversight and monitoring with gas company financial responsibility and bonding to ensure adequate oversight and monitoring over the lifetime of drilling, production, closure and ongoing monitoring.
No costs or unwanted responsibilities shall be passed to local government and communities.Only when these provisions are included, can the DSGEIS on Horizontal Gas Drilling, High Volume Hyrofracturing and Production be considered as providing adequate environmental and community protections.
Respectfully,
Stephen D
- Governor Patterson,
i know you have a lot on your plate these days. PLEASE withdraw the 9/30/09 draft
dSGEIS. Let's keep our state non-toxic and safe for
New Yorkers for decades to come !Sincerely,
Patrick F
-
Dear Governor Paterson,
You must withdraw the dSGEIS. It is inadequate on many levels. I will mention just 3.
There are no regulations in this draft. There are only suggestions for permitting requirements. Pete Grannis told the NYS Assembly that DEC has no intention of checking gas company statements during permitting. This is the first recipe for disaster
Out west they expect each well inspector to be in charge of inspecting at most 300 wells. In NYS we already have either 7,000 active wells (Walter Hang) or 14,000 (IOGA). These existing wells would require either 23 or 46 inspectors (we have 17). Insufficient staff for the existing wells is bad enough, but adding more wells without a 1:300 ratio of inspectors to wells is the second recipe for disaster.
The violations of the SEQRA process - inadequate public access, draft released with pages missing, lack of cumulative impact and socioeconomic analysis - is the third recipe for disaster (or more likely getting sued).
Kind regards,
Caroline M - Dear Governor Paterson,
I'm writing to urge you to withdraw the dSGEIS for Marcellus Shale Well Permit Issuance for Horizontal Drilling and High-Volume Hydrofracking.I'm sure you will get messages from many constituents, so I won't belabor the issue. Please protect our homes, our health, and the environment by withdrawing this draft.
Thank you,
Clare G - Dear Governor Patterson:
My name is Lazarus Boutis. I spoke briefly at both the first ENCON hearing on October 28th in Loch Sheldrake, NY, and at the hearing in New York City, on November 10th. As I indicated at those hearings, I have lived and worked in New York City for most of my adult life. I raised a family in New York City. I now have a home in Westchester County, which often draws water from the New York City Aqueduct System. I also have a summer home up in the Catskills, which draws water from a seemingly un-ending spring there. I have completed a Master’s Degree, among others, at the City University of New York. My Master’s thesis was about the New York City watershed. Before retiring last year, I was a teacher of Earth Science. So, you may say that I know a thing or two about water, and specifically watersheds.
I am sending this email to you because I firmly believe that you must immediately withdraw the draft Supplemental GEIS because it is utterly inadequate to safeguard New York's environment and public health.
The New York State Department of Environmental Conservation's (NYSDEC) own spill reports document that existing regulations have failed to prevent or require the clean up of hundreds of natural gas and oil drilling problems involving fires, explosions, polluted drinking water wells, home evacuations and massive drilling wastewater releases. NYSDEC must not issue new gas drilling permits until those regulatory concerns have been fully resolved. That is why the Supplemental GEIS review must be restarted.
The draft SGEIS totally fails to propose a safe method of managing natural gas drilling wastewater and hydrofracking fluid. It simply leaves that task to localities. Improper management of natural gas drilling wastewater has already caused massive toxic pollution impacts. The SGEIS must solve this disposal problem before new natural gas drilling permits are issued.
DEC is woefully understaffed to cope with existing natural gas drilling problems. Only 17 staff are available to regulate nearly 7,000 existing natural gas wells. Who will monitor any new sites? New gas drilling permits must not be issued until the SGEIS also solves this problem.
The SGEIS fails to address critical issues associated with strict clean up liability, natural gas spill reporting, private right of legal action, insurance coverage and unfunded local government mandates. All those concerns must be addressed prior to the issuance of new gas drilling permits.
I don't think I need to remind you of your duty to protect New York's natural resources and public health. That is why the draft SGEIS must be withdrawn.
Thank you.
Sincerely,
Lazarus BP.s. I believe your best move, and one that will be best for New Yorkers now and in the future, would be to strongly push for alternatives to fossils fuels, and with the same fervor and scientific effort as was expended when we placed a man on moon.
-
Governor Patterson:
The people of the Finger Lakes Region are terrified by the hydrofracking threat to our drinking water, our environment and way of life. As governor of this state, you must take a stand on our behalf and immediate withdraw the draft Supplemental GEIS. This is a fundamental flawed document and does not adequately safeguard New York's environment and public health. The DEC's own documents reveal a failure to prevent or require the clean up of hundreds of natural gas and oil drilling problems. The DEC is not adequate staffed to cope with the exisiting natural gas drilling problems.
The draft SGEIS completely fails to propose a safe method of managing natural gas drilling wastewater and hydrofracking fluid. It does not address critical issues associated with strict clean up liability, natural gas spill reporting, private right of legal action, insurance coveraged and unfunded local government mandates.
In short, the DEC has not met its regulatory and protective obligations to the people of New York. You must use your roll as Governor of this great state to withdraw this flawed document AND to enact a moratoreum on all new drilling.
Briggs S
- Governor Paterson:
Please do not allow gas exploration to contaminate my well in
Tompkins County NY. It is our only source of drinking water since
there is no municipal water available on my property. I, along with
all rural property owners who depend on wells, stand to lose all the
value of our property. The waters of the Finger lakes region are
precious to the economy of NY state! Any economic boom that drilling
brings will quickly be erased when property values drop. There is so
much evidence of the toxic nightmare that gas drilling could
cause...why would we take that chance? The fact that Haliburton will
not release the contents of the their hydrofracking liquid is reason
enough to stop gas exploration. Let us learn from Pennsylvania's
mistakes and not repeat them.The Department of Environmental Conservation's (DEC) own spill reports
document existing regulations have failed to prevent or to require the
clean up of hundreds of natural gas and oil drilling problems
involving fires, explosions, polluted drinking water wells, home
evacuations and massive drilling wastewater releases. DEC must not
issue new gas drilling permits until those regulatory concerns have
been fully resolved. That is why the Supplemental GEIS review must be
restarted.The draft SGEIS totally fails to propose a safe method of managing
natural gas drilling wastewater and hydrofracking fluid. It simply
leaves that task to localities. Improper management of natural gas
drilling wastewater has already caused massive toxic pollution
impacts. The SGEIS must solve this disposal problem before new
natural gas drilling permits are issued.DEC is woefully understaffed to cope with existing natural gas
drilling problems. Only 17 staff are available to regulate nearly
7,000 existing natural gas wells. New gas drilling permits must not
be issued until the SGEIS solves this problem.The SGEIS fails to address critical issues associated with strict
clean up liability, natural gas spill reporting, private right of
legal action, insurance coverage and unfunded local government
mandates. All those concerns must be addressed prior to the issuance
of new gas drilling permits. Thank you.Brian F
- Governor David A. Paterson,
Please withdraw the current draft Supplemental GEIS of natural gas drilling.
It is inadequate to protect New York's citizens and their environment. It does not offer a safe management strategy for hydrofracking and its waste products. The draft makes no attempt to discern long-term cumulative effects of these practices which use known toxins.
A new Supplemental GEIS review must be restarted.
The Department of Environmental Conservation's (DEC) own spill reports document existing regulations have failed to prevent or to require the clean up of hundreds of natural gas and oil drilling problems involving fires, explosions, polluted drinking water wells, home evacuations and massive drilling wastewater releases. DEC must not issue new gas drilling permits until those regulatory concerns have been fully resolved.
DEC is has only 17 staff are available to regulate nearly 7,000 existing natural gas wells. New gas drilling permits must not be issued until the SGEIS solves this staffing problem. The state cannot expect localities to bear this burden.
A new SGEIS must address strict clean up liability, natural gas spill reporting, private right of legal action, insurance coverage and unfunded local government mandates. No new gas drilling permits should be issued until this is resolved.
Sincerely,
Dr. Lori A M
-
Dear Governor Paterson:
Please immediately withdraw the draft Supplemental GEIS because it is utterly inadequate to safeguard New York's environment and public health. You have a a duty to protect New York's natural resources and public health.
The Department of Environmental Conservation's (DEC) own spill reports document existing regulations have failed to prevent or to require the clean up hundreds of natural gas and oil drilling problems involving fires, explosions, polluted drinking water wells, home evacuations and massive drilling wastewater releases. DEC must not issue new gas drilling permits until those regulatory concerns have been fully resolved. That is why the Supplemental GEIS review must be restarted.
The draft SGEIS totally fails to propose a safe method of managing natural gas drilling wastewater and hydrofracking fluid. It simply leaves that task to localities. As a local elected official myself, I am horrified to think that officials like myself will have to deal with the State's failure to properly regulate this activity. Improper management of natural gas drilling wastewater has already caused massive toxic pollution impacts. The SGEIS must solve this disposal problem before new natural gas drilling permits are issued.
DEC is woefully understaffed to cope with existing natural gas drilling problems. Only 17 staff are available to regulate nearly 7,000 existing natural gas wells. New gas drilling permits must not be issued until the SGEIS solves this problem.
The SGEIS fails to address critical issues associated with strict clean up liability, natural gas spill reporting, private right of legal action, insurance coverage and unfunded local government mandates. All those concerns must be addressed prior to the issuance of new gas drilling permits.
Please do not fall prey to the ridiculous arguements that we must conduct this drilling because of our energy needs. NO. We need clean energy, not natural gas that ruins our waters and our homes and then causes global climate disruption! Tell the natural gas companies to get with the times and start investing in effiency, solar, biomass, and wind.
As a landowner, I am deeply worried about my property value should drilling begin, not to mention the concern I have for the water quality of my two wells and the health of my family and future generations. Please press the "reset" button and do this right.
Sincerely,
Satya R
-
Dear Governor Paterson,
The draft Supplemental GEIS must be immediately withdrawn because it is utterly inadequate to safeguard New York's environment and public health.
The Department of Environmental Conservation's (DEC) own spill reports, document that existing regulations have failed to prevent or to require the clean up of hundreds of natural gas and oil drilling problems involving fires, explosions, polluted drinking water wells, home evacuations and massive drilling waste water releases. DEC must not issue new gas drilling permits until those regulatory problems have been fully resolved. That is why the Supplemental GEIS review must be restarted.
The draft SGEIS totally fails to propose a safe method of managing natural gas drilling waste water and hydrofracking fluid. It simply leaves that task to localities. Improper management of natural gas drilling waste water has already caused massive toxic pollution impacts. The SGEIS must solve this disposal problem before new natural gas drilling permits are issued.
DEC is woefully understaffed to cope with existing natural gas drilling problems. Only 17 staff are available to regulate nearly 7,000 existing natural gas wells. New gas drilling permits must not be issued until the SGEIS solves this problem.
The SGEIS fails to address critical issues associated with strict clean up liability, natural gas spill reporting, private right of legal action, insurance coverage and unfunded local government mandates. All those concerns must be addressed prior to the issuance of new gas drilling permits.
Excelsior,
Stanley S -
Dear Governor Patterson:
I urge you to withdraw the draft Supplemental GEIS (SGEIS) because it is utterly inadequate to safeguard New York's environment and public health.
The Department of Environmental Conservation's (DEC) own spill reports document existing regulations have failed to prevent or to require the clean up of hundreds of natural gas and oil drilling problems involving fires, explosions, polluted drinking water wells, home evacuations and massive drilling wastewater releases. DEC must not issue new gas drilling permits until those regulatory concerns have been fully resolved. That is why the Supplemental GEIS review must be restarted.
The draft SGEIS totally fails to propose a safe method of managing natural gas drilling wastewater and hydrofracking fluid. It simply leaves that task to localities. Improper management of natural gas drilling wastewater has already caused massive toxic pollution impacts. The SGEIS must solve this disposal problem before new natural gas drilling permits are issued.
The DEC is woefully understaffed to cope with existing natural gas drilling problems. Only 17 staff are available to regulate nearly 7,000 existing natural gas wells. New gas drilling permits must not be issued until the SGEIS solves this problem.
The SGEIS fails to address critical issues associated with strict clean up liability, natural gas spill reporting, private right of legal action, insurance coverage and unfunded local government mandates. All those concerns must be addressed prior to the issuance of new gas drilling permits.
We all have a duty to protect New York's natural resources and public health, and you have far more opportunity than most to do so. I urgently request that the draft SGEIS be withdrawn.
Sincerely yours,
Penny J. B
- Dear Governor Paterson,
I am fully aware of the monumental dangers to our water supply in allowing gas drilling in the shale of New York State or anywhere for that matter. In only three weeks, nearly 4,500 elected officials, environmental organizations and citizens have signed the coalition letter requesting Governor Paterson to withdraw the 9/30/09 draft Supplemental Environmental Impact Statement (dSGEIS) for Marcellus Shale Well Permit Issuance for Horizontal Drilling and High-Volume Hydrofracking. I must ask that Governor Paterson immediately withdraw the draft Supplemental GEIS because it is utterly inadequate to safeguard New York's environment and public health.
The Department of Environmental Conservation's (DEC) own spill reports document existing regulations have failed to prevent or to require the clean up of hundreds of natural gas and oil drilling problems involving fires, explosions, polluted drinking water wells, home evacuations and massive drilling wastewater releases. DEC must not issue new gas drilling permits until those regulatory concerns have been fully resolved. That is why the Supplemental GEIS review must be restarted.
The draft SGEIS totally fails to propose a safe method of managing natural gas drilling wastewater and hydrofracking fluid. It simply leaves that task to localities. Improper management of natural gas drilling wastewater has already caused massive toxic pollution impacts. The SGEIS must solve this disposal problem before new natural gas drilling permits are issued. DEC is woefully understaffed to cope with existing natural gas drilling problems. Only 17 staff are available to regulate nearly 7,000 existing natural gas wells. New gas drilling permits must not be issued until the SGEIS solves this problem. The SGEIS fails to address critical issues associated with strict clean up liability, natural gas spill reporting, private right of legal action, insurance coverage and unfunded local government mandates. All those concerns must be addressed prior to the issuance of new gas drilling permits. Governor Paterson has a duty to protect New York's natural resources and public health. That is why the draft SGEIS must be withdrawn. Please send me your position on this matter. I'd like to know if you are fully informed of the dangers, please.
Yours very truly aware of the dangers of gas drilling,
Ms. Daniela Gioseff, American Book Award Winning Author
-
Dear Governor Paterson:
I ask you to immediately withdraw the draft Supplemental GEIS regarding gas drilling in the Marcellus shale because it is utterly inadequate to safeguard New York's environment and public health.
The Department of Environmental Conservation's (DEC) own spill reports document that existing regulations have failed to prevent or require the clean up of hundreds of natural gas and oil drilling problems involving fires, explosions, polluted drinking water wells, home evacuations and massive drilling wastewater releases. DEC must not issue new gas drilling permits until those regulatory concerns have been fully resolved. That is why the Supplemental GEIS review must be restarted.
The draft SGEIS totally fails to propose a safe method of managing natural gas drilling wastewater and hydrofracking fluid. It simply leaves that task to localities. Improper management of natural gas drilling wastewater has already caused massive toxic pollution impacts.
The SGEIS must solve this disposal problem before new natural gas drilling permits are issued.DEC is woefully understaffed to cope with existing natural gas drilling problems. Only 17 staff are available to regulate nearly 7,000 existing natural gas wells. New gas drilling permits must not be issued until the SGEIS also solves this problem.
The SGEIS fails to address critical issues associated with strict clean up liability, natural gas spill reporting, private right of legal action, insurance coverage and unfunded local government mandates. All those concerns must be addressed prior to the issuance of new gas drilling permits.
Please remember that you, as the Governor, have a duty to protect New York's natural resources and public health. That is why the draft SGEIS must be withdrawn. I am very concerned about turning our beautiful rural New York into a place where I will no longer want to live.
Sincerely yours,
Martin C. J. -
Dear Governor Patterson,
Please consider withdrawing the draft Supplemental GEIS because it does not adequately safeguard New York's environment and public health.
If gas drilling is to happen in New York State we need to be very careful of how we set the guidelines to preserve our quality of life and still avail ourselves of the benefits of a transitional fuel source until a truly green energy solution becomes affordable.
The Department of Environmental Conservation's (DEC) own spill reports document existing regulations have failed to prevent or to require the clean up of hundreds of natural gas and oil drilling problems involving fires, explosions, polluted drinking water wells, home evacuations and massive drilling wastewater releases. DEC must not issue new gas drilling permits until those regulatory concerns have been fully resolved. That is why the Supplemental GEIS review must be restarted.
The draft SGEIS totally fails to propose a safe method of managing natural gas drilling wastewater and hydrofracking fluid. It simply leaves that task to localities. Improper management of natural gas drilling wastewater has already caused massive toxic pollution impacts. The SGEIS must solve this disposal problem before new natural gas drilling permits are issued.
From the accounts of the manpower available at the DEC they are understaffed to cope with existing natural gas drilling problems. Only 17 staff are available to regulate nearly 7,000 existing natural gas wells. New gas drilling permits must not be issued until the SGEIS solves this problem.
The SGEIS fails to address critical issues associated with strict clean up liability, natural gas spill reporting, private right of legal action, insurance coverage and unfunded local government mandates. All those concerns must be addressed prior to the issuance of new gas drilling permits.
Thank you for your leadership in these difficult times!
Sincerely,Ray D
- Dear Governor:
I am urging you to immediately withdraw the draft Supplemental Generic
Impact Statement (dSGEIS), pertaining to hydrofracking in New York
state. As written, it appears utterly inadequate to safeguard New York's
environment and public health.The Department of Environmental Conservation's (DEC) own spill reports
document existing regulations that have failed to prevent or to require
the clean up of hundreds of natural gas and oil drilling problems
involving fires, explosions, polluted drinking water wells, home
evacuations and massive drilling wastewater releases.DEC must not issue new gas drilling permits until those regulatory
concerns have been fully resolved. Here are some other reasons why the
Supplemental GEIS review must be restarted:1. The draft SGEIS fails to propose a safe method of managing natural
gas drilling wastewater and hydrofracking fluid. It simply leaves that
task to already over-burdened local municipalities. Improper management
of natural gas drilling wastewater has already caused massive toxic
pollution impacts in other areas where hydrofracking has begun. The
SGEIS must solve this disposal problem before new natural gas drilling
permits are issued.2. The DEC is woefully understaffed to cope with existing natural gas
drilling problems. Only 17 staff are available to regulate nearly 7,000
existing natural gas wells. New gas drilling permits must not be issued
until the SGEIS solves this problem.3. The SGEIS fails to address critical issues associated with strict
clean up liability, natural gas spill reporting, private right of legal
action, insurance coverage and unfunded local government mandates.
Hydrofracking corporations should not be exempt from federal clean air
and water regulations. All those concerns must be addressed prior to the
issuance of new gas drilling permits.Governor Paterson, you may wish that you could shove this issue into the
closet, but it is your duty to protect New York's natural resources and
public health. This is why the draft SGEIS must be withdrawn.I look forward to your response.
Regards,
Sarabeth M - Dear Governor Patterson,
I am the manager of Indian Springs Fly Fishing LLC located on the Upper Delaware River near Hancock, NY. I am also affiliated with Friends of the Upper Delaware River (FUDR) who is currently involved with Stream Restoration work and in partnership with the Town of Hancock located in Delaware County, NY. The clean free flowing streams in the Delaware County region are the head waters of the Delaware River. The river is special and used for recreational opportunities such as fishing, boating and drinking water for millions of people. These activities are important to the economy of the region.
The draft Suppliment Generic Environmental Impact Statement released by the NY Department of Conservation for public comment that concerns drilling the Marcellus shale falls short of what is necessary to protect the public drinking water and the rivers and streams in the state of NY. For the safety of the public and our environment I urge you to withdraw the dSGEIS.
Thank you for this consideration.
Sincerely,
Lee H
- Governor David A. Paterson,
Please withdraw the dSGEIS because it is totally inadequate to protect the health and safety of the citizens of New York State. The DEC is not appropriately staffed to regulate and increase of drilling in the Southern Tier and Finger Lakes region. It is imperative that you act to protect the resources, health, and safety of this beautiful part of New York State.
Thank you.
G. D. B.
- Dear Governor Paterson,
I add my voice to those calling for you to withdraw this inadequate document.
Everywhere that hydrofracturing has been practiced, water has been contaminated, people have been made sick. The breathtaking risks being faced by residents of New York State: ecological, health related, and economic, are not adequately addressed in the dSGEIS. Regulation is inadequate, accountability is lacking, DEC is inadequately staffed, and waste removal and treatment are woefully unplanned for.
The bill A8748, pending in state legislature, would go a long way toward addressing all of these issues. But there is no reason we should accept a document, the dSGEIS, that is obviously lacking at every level as an effective set of regulations to protect what can’t be renewed, replaced, or compensated for: our health, and the health of our environment.I add my voice to those calling for you to withdraw this inadequate document. Not only is it inadequate to address the new volume and type of activity, it has, contrary to many reports, failed to protect our state from damage from the traditional gas wells in operation in recent decades, with almost three hundred documented cases of contamination. (The majority of which were not discovered by DEC’s inadequate staff.)
I ask you to imagine the exponential increase in problems that will be much more dramatic than those we have had in New York to date. I ask you to imagine the very real likelihood, under the inadequate extant regulation and current state of this practice, the contamination of the drinking water of half the residents of this state. How much future cost do we want to incur for the short term benefit of the owners of gas companies, and a few land owners leasing to them? Let the law require gas companies to pay thirty billion dollars for filtration facilities- they will reform their own practices before taking the risk that the residents of this state are being asked to assume, or conclude that the gas isn’t worth the risk of destroying the water. If we are to have a suitable SGEIS, it will have to read very much like A8748. I ask you to withdraw the dSGEIS, and to support the rapid passage of A8748.
Thank you
Paul B
- Dear Governor Patterson,
If you can possible look beyond money and to the quality of our lives
and those of posterity here in NY State, please withdraw this draft.
Thank you for considering this.
Janice A. R - I am a high school student in New York. Please withdraw the dSGEIS it is very harnful to our environment!!!
Molly -
Dear Governor Paterson,
Hello. My name is Viola. I met you very briefly as you greeted people from the Auburn community that came to hear you speak at Cayuga Community College in Auburn NY. From what I have heard from you and read about you, you seem to be an intelligent and caring family man. For the sake of the health of our community, the environment and for the families that live here I kindly ask that you help us. I am writing you to request that you PLEASE stop the proposed gas drilling in the Marcellus Shale.
I fear for the environmentally unsafe practice of hydrofracking to release the natural gas from the shale, which requires a toxic cocktail, and has other undesirable effects. People in this community need your help to stop/prevent the drilling and we need much better legislation to regulate it. Among many other concerns, one big one is that this has the potential to completely contaminate our water and air supply here.
The draft SGEIS totally fails to propose a safe method of managing natural gas drilling wastewater and hydrofracking fluid. It simply leaves that task to localities. Improper management of natural gas drilling wastewater has already caused massive toxic pollution impacts. The SGEIS must solve this disposal problem before new natural gas drilling permits are issued.
Can you please help stop the drilling? Thank you very much for your time.
My regards to you and your family.Sincerely, Ms. Viola F
-
Governor Paterson,
Please immediately withdraw the draft Supplemental GEIS because it is utterly inadequate to safeguard New York's environment and public health.
The Department of Environmental Conservation's (DEC) own spill reports document existing regulations have failed to prevent or to require the clean up of hundreds of natural gas and oil drilling problems involving fires, explosions, polluted drinking water wells, home evacuations and massive drilling wastewater releases. DEC must not issue new gas drilling permits until those regulatory concerns have been fully resolved. That is why the Supplemental GEIS review must be restarted.
The draft SGEIS totally fails to propose a safe method of managing natural gas drilling wastewater and hydrofracking fluid. It simply leaves that task to localities. Improper management of natural gas drilling wastewater has already caused massive toxic pollution impacts. The SGEIS must solve this disposal problem before new natural gas drilling permits are issued.
DEC is woefully understaffed to cope with existing natural gas drilling problems. Only 17 staff are available to regulate nearly 7,000 existing natural gas wells. New gas drilling permits must not be issued until the SGEIS solves this problem.
The SGEIS fails to address critical issues associated with strict clean up liability, natural gas spill reporting, private right of legal action, insurance coverage and unfunded local government mandates. All those concerns must be addressed prior to the issuance of new gas drilling permits.
We need to examine short term benefits versus long term costs. The risks now are simply too great. Governor Paterson, you have a duty to protect New York's natural resources and public health. That is why the draft SGEIS must be withdrawn.
Sincerely,
Terezka K -
Dear Governor Paterson,
Upstate New York NEEDS YOUR HELP.
Both our residents and our local officials are attempting to make a statement against the DEC document that could possibly become the regulatory basis for gas drilling in our area. Many officials and residents are also calling for a complete moratorium on the drilling.
Facts such as the 5 million gallons of water that will be used to produce each well, the permitting of one well being placed every 40 acres, the lack of good or clear suggestions for dealing with the toxic waste, etc, is scaring all of us into action. But one of the most compelling facts is that this process will change our beautiful upstate area into an industrial site...not in the zones that allow industry, but throughout the entire area...even into the most pristine rural settings. Allowing these companies to override local zoning and planning regulations, they will be able to have large rigs, pools of toxic waste, thousands of trucks, etc, throughout upstate New York.
If this happens, there will be damage done to our farming (crops, dairy, grapes, etc) and tourist industries. Water, which is one of the most important natural resources of all, will be threatened both through the excessive use of water and toxins being used by the drilling companies. And our way of life that includes the ability to enjoy our natural surroundings will be changed forever.
We need a withdrawal of the DEC Environmental Impact Statement and a stop to hydrofracking.
This process is not an answer to global warming or the economic state of New York. We need to invest in true alternative sources for energy and jobs that will sustain us in the future.
Please consider what this means to the residents of Upstate New York. Do not leave us in the hands of the gas industry. We are residents of your state and deserve protection against those who would destroy our way of life to make a profit.
Thank you in advance,
Christa -
Dear Governor Paterson,
I'm writing as a deeply concerned resident of the Southern Tier to urge you to withdraw the draft sGEIS that addresses gas drilling in the Marcellus Shale. It is not adequate to safeguard the environment and public health of New York. The DEC is understaffed and cannot monitor the complicated and sensitive process of hydrofracturing. Local governments have limited authority to regulate an industry that will have a colossal effect on the quality of life in our region.
This is an area of rich natural resources, including clean water, fertile fields, and striking natural beauty. Agriculture, viniculture, and tourism thrive here, as do numerous excellent universities and colleges. All are threatened by the transformation of Central New York into a site of loosely regulated gas extraction and production.
Also at risk are the health and well-being of the people who live here. Hydrofracturing, which is known to cause spills in addition to using billions of gallons of water and contaminating it with additives, threatens our clean water and air. It will mean increased truck traffic on roads barely able to sustain current usage, and on bridges that are already less than perfect condition. It will place a huge tax burden on towns and cities that are already struggling. It may enrich a few landowners and bring some short-term revenues to the state -- but at what cost to all of us? The State of New York will end up bearing a far larger burden in dealing with the consequences of rash industrialization.
Governor Paterson, I know you love New York. I urge you to visit our region and see for yourself -- see what's here, and see what's threatened by the intrusion of this virtually unregulated industry.
Sincerely,
Nancy PP. S. Why did gas drilling companies pull out of the New York City watershed? Doesn't that indicate they are aware of the damage drilling can cause? Why are they reluctant to jeopardize New York City water but willing to go ahead in Central New York?
-
Dear Governor Paterson,
I am writing to share my concerns about proposed drilling for natural gas in the Marcellus Shale and to urge you to withdraw the DEC's draft Supplemental GEIS because it does not adequately protect New York's environment and public health. The DEC's own reports have documented that the existing regulations have failed to prevent drilling problems such as fires, explosions, polluted drinking water wells, home evacuations and massive drilling wastewater releases. The draft SGEIS fails to propose a safe method of managing natural gas drilling wastewater and hydrofracking fluid. Instead, it simply leaves that responsibility to localities. Improper management of natural gas drilling wastewater has already caused massive toxic pollution impacts. The SGEIS fails to address critical issues associated with strict clean up liability, natural gas spill reporting, private right of legal action, insurance coverage and unfunded local government mandates. Furthermore, I am concerned that the DEC is understaffed and therefore unable to handle existing natural gas drilling problems. I feel strongly that the DEC must not issue new gas drilling permits until these regulatory concerns have been fully resolved.
Respectfully Yours,
Jody K -
Dear Gov. Patterson,
I realize New York is in a financial crisis that is not the constituency's making; I realize a short term gain could be had by allowing this drilling to commence. However, this would be bad policy for the future of this great state. Not only would it guarantee a level of pollution no one should be comfortable with, it would also leave a shameful legacy of bowing to energy companies such as Halliburton that have shown no interest in the long term issues of the state of New York. The trail of negative side-effects of fracking is clear to see: DO NOT ALLOW FRACKING IN NEW YORK!
Had the people gotten the information about what results they can expect my suspicion is that citizens would never allow it. Unfortunately, the chemicals used are protected by trade secrets legislation that is very pro-business to the degree that they can poison our water just so they can keep their toxic brew secret???? This is a perfect example of how off the tracks we've gotten in this country. The citizens are watching, and whatever legacy is left behind...it will have your approval on its' mast head for posterity. Think long and hard about that.
Sincerely,
J. T. E -
Dear Governor Paterson:
I urge you to immediately withdraw the Department of Environmental Conservation’s draft Supplemental GEIS because it is utterly inadequate to safeguard New York’s environment and public health.
The DEC’s own spill reports document that existing regulations have failed to prevent or to require the clean-up of hundreds of natural gas and oil drilling problems involving fires, explosions, polluted drinking water wells, home evacuations, and massive drilling wastewater releases. The DEC must not issue new gas drilling permits until those regulatory concerns have been fully resolved. This is why the Supplemental GEIS review must be restarted.
The draft SGEIS totally fails to propose a safe method of managing natural gas drilling wastewater and hydrofracking fluid. It simply leaves that task to localities. Improper management of natural gas drilling wastewater has already caused massive toxic pollution impacts. The SGEIS must solve this disposal problem before new natural gas drilling permits are issued.
The DEC is woefully understaffed to cope with existing natural gas drilling problems. Only 17 staff are available to regulate nearly 7,000 existing natural gas wells. New gas drilling permits must not be issued until the SGEIS solves this problem.
The SGEIS fails to address critical issues associated with strict clean-up liability, natural gas spill reporting, private right of legal action, insurance coverage, and unfunded local government mandates. All these concerns must be addressed prior to the issuance of new gas drilling permits.
A Governor has a duty to protect New York’s natural resources and public health. For this reason, the draft SGEIS must be withdrawn.
Yours,
Michael O
-
Dear Governor Paterson,
I respectfully urge you to withdraw the draft GEIS about hydraulic
fracturing in the Marcellus Shale. If we are to do hydrofracking at
all, we need strong, enforceable regulations to protect the health
and safety of New Yorkers. Enforcement would be expensive, but the
cost of toxic contamination of groundwater, lakes, and rivers would
be many times higher.New York City has mounted a strong effort to keep hydrofracking out
of its watershed, with a major editorial in the New York Times.
Upstate NY also needs the same protection, especially to keep Upstate
food production safe for all New Yorkers.Please consider banning hydrofracking if there cannot be adequate
health and safety enforcement. Wind energy, solar, and most of all
conservation are much cheaper and safer alternatives to natural gas.
My house has grid-tied solar photovoltaic panels that, over the
course of the year, generate 50% more electricity than I use. So I
can assure you that even in sunny Ithaca, solar works!Thank you for your interest during these hard times,
Valorie R
-
Dear Governor Patterson:
I urge you to withdraw the draft Supplemental GEIS because it is utterly inadequate to safeguard New York's environment and public health.
The Department of Environmental Conservation's (DEC) own spill reports document existing regulations have failed to prevent or to require the clean up of hundreds of natural gas and oil drilling problems involving fires, explosions, polluted drinking water wells, home evacuations and massive drilling wastewater releases. DEC must not issue new gas drilling permits until those regulatory concerns have been fully resolved. That is why the Supplemental GEIS review must be restarted.
The draft SGEIS totally fails to propose a safe method of managing natural gas drilling wastewater and hydrofracking fluid. It simply leaves that task to localities. Improper management of natural gas drilling wastewater has already caused massive toxic pollution impacts. The SGEIS must solve this disposal problem before new natural gas drilling permits are issued.
The DEC is woefully understaffed to cope with existing natural gas drilling problems. Only 17 staff are available to regulate nearly 7,000 existing natural gas wells. New gas drilling permits must not be issued until the SGEIS solves this problem.
The SGEIS fails to address critical issues associated with strict clean up liability, natural gas spill reporting, private right of legal action, insurance coverage and unfunded local government mandates. All those concerns must be addressed prior to the issuance of new gas drilling permits.
We all have a duty to protect New York's natural resources and public health, and you have far more opportunity than most to do so. I urgently request that the draft SGEIS be withdrawn.
Sincerely yours,
Rachel D -
Dear Governor Paterson:
I am writing to respectfully request that you immediately withdraw the
9/30/09 Supplemental GEIS regarding permits for Horizontal Drilling
and High-Volume Hydrofracking in the Marcellus Shale.Unfortunately, existing regulations have been inadequate in addressing
prevention or spill clean up from currently existing gas wells. The
problems include fires, explosions and pollution of drinking water
wells, as well as releases of large amounts of wastewater. These
occurrences are documented in DEC's own spill reports. Without a
thorough review and update of existing regulations, it would be
irresponsible to go forward considering the massive number of new
permits and wells that are proposed, some of which would be huge
operations.In addition to the fact that the existing regulations are not
adequate, the DEC does not have adequate staff to monitor even the
current volume of wells, with only 17 staff available to regulate
almost 7,000 existing wells. Without addressing this problem, it is
obvious that the DEC will not be able to handle managing the issues
surrounding a massive increase in the number and size of drilling
operations in New York State.Another extremely important issue that the SGEIS does not address is a
standard for how to safely dispose of the wastewater and hydrofracking
fluid used in natural gas drilling. Without a strict state wide
standard, there will be confusion and mismanagement at local levels,
with the taxpayers picking up the administrative bill. There will also
be more toxic waste "accidents" and / or mismanagement. This issue
must be addressed before any new permits are issued.There are many other issues left unaddressed by the SGEIS, including
clean up liability, insurance, private right of legal action, spill
reporting, and unfunded local mandates. As a taxpayer I find this all
very disturbing.Without addressing all of these problems, it is unconscionable to
think about forging ahead. As Governor you have a duty to protect the
health of the citizens of NYS, our plentiful clean water, and our
existing thriving economies including organic & conventional farms,
wineries, and outdoor recreation / tourism surrounding our lakes. We
need to protect these thriving parts of our economy, even as we seek
to revive the economy in less thriving localities.Please have the courage to act now and withdraw the 9/30/09 SGEIS. I
look forward to hearing from you on this issue.Sincerely,
Susan T
-
Dear Governor Paterson:
I strongly urge you to withdraw the sGEIS regulating shale gas
drilling. As it is written, it is completely inadequate to protect
upstate NY from the impacts of drilling in the Marcellus Shale. It is
not backed by sound science, does not have adequate protections for
public health and safety, does not address disposal of toxic
wastewater, and does not address at all the cumulative impacts of
thousands of wells.We need legislation to protect us. That should address health and
safety (for example, much larger setbacks from homes and water wells).
We also need to amend compulsory integration: as it is now (those
integrated get LESS than those who sign leases -- no bonus, minimum
royalty) it amounts to extortion, and many who do not want drilling
feel compelled to sign leases.If NY proceeds on its present course, your legacy will be the
destruction of the quality of life for millions of New Yorkers.Evan R
-
To whom it may concern:
Governor Paterson must immediately withdraw the draft Supplemental GEIS
because it is utterly inadequate to safeguard New York's environment and
public health.The Department of Environmental Conservation's (DEC) own spill reports
document existing regulations have failed to prevent or to require the
clean up of hundreds of natural gas and oil drilling problems involving
fires, explosions, polluted drinking water wells, home evacuations and
massive drilling wastewater releases. DEC must not issue new gas
drilling permits until those regulatory concerns have been fully
resolved. That is why the Supplemental GEIS review must be
restarted.The draft SGEIS totally fails to propose a safe method of managing natural
gas drilling wastewater and hydrofracking fluid. It simply
leaves that task to localities. Improper management of natural gas
drilling wastewater has already caused massive toxic pollution
impacts. The SGEIS must solve this disposal problem before new
natural gas drilling permits are issued.DEC is woefully understaffed to cope with existing natural gas drilling
problems. Only 17 staff are available to regulate nearly 7,000
existing natural gas wells. New gas drilling permits must not be
issued until the SGEIS solves this problem.The SGEIS fails to address critical issues associated with strict clean
up liability, natural gas spill reporting, private right of legal action,
insurance coverage and unfunded local government mandates. All
those concerns must be addressed prior to the issuance of new gas
drilling permits.Best,
Jharon S
-
Dear Governor Paterson,
Because it doesn't adequately safeguard New York's environment and the health of New York citizens, I URGE YOU TO IMMEDIATELY WITHDRAW THE DRAFT SUPPLEMENTAL GEIS. New York's Department of Environmental Conservation's (DEC) spill report documents that existing regulations have failed to prevent or require the clean up of hundreds of natural gas and oil drilling problems such as fires, polluted drinking water well, etc.
In addition, The draft SGEIS totally fails to propose a safe method of managing natural gas drilling wastewater and hydrofracking fluid. It simply leaves that task to localities. Improper management of natural gas drilling wastewater has already caused massive toxic pollution impacts. The SGEIS must solve this disposal problem before new natural gas drilling permits are issued.
The issue of understaffing makes it impossible for the nearly 7,000 existing wells to be monitored.
I could go on but I am sure are aware of the critical issues around oil and gas drilling.
I URGE YOU TO WITHDRAW THE WOEFULLY INADEQUATE DRAFT SUPPLEMENTAL GEIS.
Sincerely, Stephanie S
- Dear Governor Paterson--I am very opposed to the proposed technology to be used to exploit the shale gas deposits in the Southern Tier of New York State. The proposed drilling by the oil and gas industry is going to destroy south central and western New York State and render large areas of pristine tourist territory unusable for farming and the wine industry for a generation. It is more important to reduce energy use than it is to generate new sources of energy. The proposed draft Supplemental GEIS is completely inadequate to protect our environment and our people. Please act immediately to withdraw the draft Supplemental GEIS. No further review should be taken by the DEC until the EPA has reviewed the hazards of the hydrofracturing drilling process and until the federal agencies have put adequate environmental controls in place for this industrial process. Thanks for your consideration of my opinions. Tom S
-
Dear Governor Paterson:
Please immediately withdraw the draft Supplemental GEIS because it is utterly inadequate to safeguard New York's environment and public health.
The Department of Environmental Conservation's (DEC) own spill reports document existing regulations have failed to prevent or to require the clean up hundreds of natural gas and oil drilling problems involving fires, explosions, polluted drinking water wells, home evacuations and massive drilling wastewater releases. DEC must not issue new gas drilling permits until those regulatory concerns have been fully resolved. That is why the Supplemental GEIS review must be restarted.
The draft SGEIS totally fails to propose a safe method of managing natural gas drilling wastewater and hydrofracking fluid. It simply leaves that task to localities. Improper management of natural gas drilling wastewater has already caused massive toxic pollution impacts. The SGEIS must solve this disposal problem before new natural gas drilling permits are issued.
DEC is woefully understaffed to cope with existing natural gas drilling problems. Only 17 staff are available to regulate nearly 7,000 existing natural gas wells. New gas drilling permits must not be issued until the SGEIS solves this problem.
The SGEIS fails to address critical issues associated with strict clean up liability, natural gas spill reporting, private right of legal action, insurance coverage and unfunded local government mandates. All those concerns must be addressed prior to the issuance of new gas drilling permits.
Governor Paterson, you have a duty to protect New York's natural resources and public health. That is why the draft SGEIS must be withdrawn.
Sincerely,
Beth M -
Dear Governor Patterson:
I respectfully ask you to withdraw the draft Supplemental GEIS because
it does not contain adequate safeguards to protect New York's water,
environment and public health. You are the one with the power to make
a difference in the lives of New Yorkers regarding this issue. Water
is our greatest resource. You must protect it for all of our future.I live in rural New York, in the Finger Lakes region. Our water is
the most precious resource we have. I am dependent on my well for
drinking, my pond for fishing and recreation and my garden for much of
my food. I live here because of the beauty of the area and this is my
home. This is where I grew up and where I would like to retire! I am
terrified that this drilling will pollute the environment. I am a
nurse, and I am concerned about the health affects of the drilling
pollution to the air and water. I am worried about its how it will
affect our wildlife and flora.The SGEIS also fails to address critical issues associated with strict
clean up liability, natural gas spill reporting, private right of
legal action, insurance coverage and unfunded local government
mandates. All those concerns must be addressed prior to the issuance
of new gas drilling permits. I do not have the money for repeated
well water testing and legal battles if pollution does occur. I do
not have recourse if the value of my home drops because of pollution
in the area. I have put my life savings into my home, because it is
where I plan to stay.The draft SGEIS totally fails to propose a safe method of managing
natural gas drilling wastewater and hydrofracking fluid. Improper
management of natural gas drilling wastewater has already caused
massive toxic pollution impacts. The DEC is not staffed to cope with
existing natural gas drilling problems, much less this whole new
process.The Department of Environmental Conservation's (DEC) own spill reports
document existing regulations have failed to prevent or to require the
clean up of hundreds of natural gas and oil drilling problems
involving fires, explosions, polluted drinking water wells, home
evacuations and massive drilling wastewater releases. DEC must not
issue new gas drilling permits until those regulatory concerns have
been fully resolved. That is why the Supplemental GEIS review must be
restarted.Do not rush into this. The gas will be there when there are safe
methods to extract it. If we pollute our water, air and land that
damage will have lasting effects. Hydrofracking is too dangerous to
our future.Sincerely,
Nancy S -
Dear Governor Paterson:
As a guardian of New York's natural resources and public health, I urge you to immediately withdraw the draft Supplemental Environmental Impact Statement (dSGEIS) for Marcellus Shale Well Permit Issuance for Horizontal Drilling and High-Volume Hydrofracking.. This dSGEIS is utterly inadequate to safeguard New York's environment and public health.
As the Department of Environmental Conservation's own reports document, existing regulations have failed to prevent or to require the clean up of hundreds of natural gas and oil drilling problems -- resulting in fires, explosions, polluted drinking water wells, home evacuations and massive drilling wastewater releases. DEC must not issue new gas drilling permits until those regulatory concerns have been fully resolved. That is why the Supplemental GEIS review must be restarted.
The current draft totally fails to propose a safe method of managing natural gas drilling wastewater and hydrofracking fluid. It simply leaves that task to localities. Improper management of natural gas drilling wastewater has already caused massive toxic pollution impacts. The SGEIS must solve this disposal problem before new natural gas drilling permits are issued.
DEC is woefully understaffed to cope with existing natural gas drilling problems. Only 17 staff are available to regulate nearly 7,000 existing natural gas wells. New gas drilling permits must not be issued until the SGEIS solves this problem.
And --The SGEIS fails to address critical issues associated with strict clean up liability, natural gas spill reporting, private right of legal action, insurance coverage and unfunded local government mandates. All those concerns must be addressed prior to the issuance of new gas drilling permits. For all these reasons, the draft SGEIS must be withdrawn.
Governor, I know you have a lot on your plate these days -- but please, give your urgent attention to this matter which affects the health of New York's citizens and the long-term integrity of its environment.
Yours very truly,
Nina K
-
Honorable Governor Paterson:
I write to strongly urge you to withdraw the draft Supplemental GEIS pertaining to gas drilling in our great state. As a resident of Otsego County, I am deeply worried about the quality of our water and other environmental and quality-of-life consequences of drilling through hydrofracking. It is quite evident that the review process has not resolved serious potential, even likely, negative and irreversible consequences.
I cannot imagine a more important issue facing rural residents of central New York. Please use your good office to ensure that gas drilling does not begin on your watch.
Respectfully yours,
Jon W -
Dear Governor Paterson:
Please withdraw the 9/30/09 draft Supplemental Environmental Impact
Statement (dSGEIS) for Marcellus Shale Well Permit Issuance for
Horizontal Drilling and High-Volume Hydrofracking.The DEC itself has documented repeated failures to prevent oil and gas
drilling pollution impacts. These regulatory shortcomings must be
fixed prior to the DEC issuing new drilling permits. The City of New
York's reservoirs, water supply sources and the environment of the
upstate NY could become irreparably contaminated.Please withdraw the dSGEIS!
============================================
Sean D -
Good day Governor Patterson,
I have been concerned about the new method of getting gas out of the ground by hydro-fracking for the past year that we have been aware in Ithaca that it could affect our immediate area in terms of potential pollution to the most valuable life substance: water. In the past week the dragon which holds my fears at bay, has reared it's mean head and is spewing fire everywhere in my life. I found out that my immediate neighbor, Jeff Hart, (his hundred acres behind my house) has signed gas leases. I went to his snowmobile shop to see if I could persuade him to not sign, but it was a done deal.
In a heartbeat, I knew that everything that I have come to love in this area after living here for the past 25 years, will possibly come to an end. My first thought was that I would need to put my house on the market, and my second thought was that my 13 year old daughter would need to change schools for the 4th time...she finally is very happy in my small town where I also work as a teacher in the school. So, I might also have to give up my job at our local school. Then, I had to wonder if my home would even have any real value.
In a matter of moments I had every worst fear of my life since my job and domicile (in which I have put all my savings for 25 years) were at risk of being wiped out. When I told my daughter, she literally had an emotional break-down.
I moved to Ithaca since it is a beautiful area. I did not have a job, family, or even a friend here. I loved the Finger Lakes where we used to go as kids living near Rochester. I don't make that much money. I work part-time and I am a single parent. I choose to spend more time with my daughter who has some special needs. My daily life is precious since I walk up the hill (all shale cliffs) behind my house and get to go on trails on the Connecticut Hill Wildlife Refuge...all state lands which the landowner, Jeff Hart (fortunately, he just list a bid for town representative), informed me to be the most lively to sign gas leases. I can't even think about this since I know that it infuriates me, so I force myself into numbness.
You see, I really wanted to be here since I love the clean waters of the Finger Lakes and the lovely snow of Connecticut Hill for cross-country skiing and riding my horse. I depend on my natural environment for my daily sustenance. My job is to try to convince suspended students on the verge of dropping out, to not fall through the cracks given their unfortunate circumstances. You can imagine that it is stressful. Most of my day in spend in trailers where I work with students and their families who may not have enough to eat, have minimum wage jobs, and express their rage in sometimes violent ways. I have worked with some of the most disenfranchised people for many, many years. I feel well-rewarded by them and want to keep my job, but not if I may not even have clean water in my well. My feelings are that I need to sell my house as soon as possible since it's value will most likely go way down. My life as I know it, could disappear.
I know that there is a couple billion too many gallons of chemically saturated waste water that has NO PLACE to go in the whole world. I have been to many of the meetings held in Ithaca, have read all the accounts in the paper and on email, have talked to most people I know who are also outraged, and I only have become more convinced that this will destroy our area. The watershed going into the lake comes from the Marcellus Shale area and would get the effect of even a tiny accident. Accidents will happen, and everyone knows it. It is impossible to put in millions of gallons of water with chemicals and expect that it will all come out. It is all shale cliffs around here and water can be leeched through them from many miles away. I also studied Geology in school, and these are basic facts which seem to be ignored by the DEC in their 800 page report. The basic risks and then the lessor risks are not really on the table.
We all need time to think this through. I don't think you can safeguard us against the risks no matter how carefully it is supervised. The bare minimum would be to insure homewoners everywhere that if our water is spoiled, then we will be offered full assessment value of our homes and money to relocate.
And then the problem would be where to go where we might get clean water, our most precious resource which, once spoiled, is not really renewable. I can't even imagine such a world. I already agonize over our troops over in the Iraqi and Afghanistan deserts using up the locale's small reserves of water. I honestly feel desperate with any of these thoughts, which I know can not be avoided if we are facing reality.
So, I hope you will be realistic. Hydrofracking would mean death to our natural environment. So, please advocate for the old style of drilling. Yes, it is not easy here, and probably more expensive. The trade-off of losing the most valuable resource on the planet is a no-brainer.
Thank you for reading a letter which ended up way longer than I imagined, but gives my sincere thoughts and feelings,
Emily R. C -
Hi Walter,
I did already sign the petition and put on an old address I had in NYC.
I understand the 'legitimacy' concern, however I wanted to make you
aware of some privacy concerns in a rural area
like ours, where at a glance someone would notice my name (its unusual) and know the
address instantly. There are so few homes along my road and I'm the only
Asian name for miles. I've been 'singled out' before.Some people in the small hamlet we live in have already had
'harrassment' in the form of vandalism, gunshots,
from the towns people. I totally support what you are doing, but I wanted to make you aware
of privacy concerns.This is a very volatile issue in some communities as you've probably already
heard, and some friends
who are 'minorities' living in small communities have issues about their safety.At any rate, I appreciate the work you've done .My neighbor has your petition and website posted on our community website against the drilling. I've forwarded
the petition to my mailing list. Thanks and
thanks for your responseRea T
-
Dear Governor Paterson,
I'm writing to ask you to immediately withdraw the draft SGEIS regarding Hydraulic Fracturing (fracking) in the Marcellus Shale. We have already seen the disastrous effects of this type of drilling in places like Dimock, PA, where the fish in the streams are being killed by spilled fracking fluid, and the tap water is so contaminated as to be flammable!
It is clear that fracking technology is reckless, dangerous, and economically unfeasible when you consider its true costs. Without clean water, nothing else really matters. Times may seem hard now, but if you think that this "quick fix" for our state economy is going to help things, wait until fracking has ruined our other industries, like tourism, wine, and other agriculture. When the gas is used up, and the land is no longer viable, and we have to import water to drink, these times will look like a golden age.
The draft SGEIS does not address problems such as spill reporting and clean up liability. We know who ends up responsible for cleanup costs. It's us residents. If the mess can be cleaned up, and the political will exists to do so, we will bear the costs, paying for the cleanup with our (already unreasonably high) tax dollars. If the mess can't be cleaned up, we will pay instead with our health and our livelihoods, as will our children, and our children's children. Actually, we'll probably all just leave for a part of the world that isn't so polluted, and your shrinking tax base will implode.
Please don't squander our future for a short-sighted profit!
Sincerely,
Leon M
-
Dear Governor Paterson:
You have been hearing from many experts across the state about the
potential hazards from hydrofracking in the Marcellus shale, and about the
inadequacies of the regulatory protection in the DEC's GEIS and its
proposed supplement.It may be very tempting to go for the gold--er, I mean, gas--given the
dismal condition of the state's economy, particularly upstate. But I
implore you to withdraw the SGEIS, a flawed document, to allow time for
complete, unbiased scientific study of hydrofracking. I can understand
the desire of property owners who have leased their land to reap some
economic benefit, but widespread industrial gas drilling will have a broad
impact on all of us who live in the Marcellus shale region, drink its
water, breathe its air, and derive our livelihoods from the natural
environment here.Please do the right thing and withdraw this document now. I do not want
New York to become another Dimock, Pennsylvania, Dish, Texas or the like.Sincerely,
Sara S
-
Dear Governor Paterson,
PLEASE, PLEASE LISTEN!!
We here in Central New York are in the midst of an intense
struggle against those who wish to use hydrofracking to extract
natural gas from Marcellus Shale. We NEED YOUR HELP to fight
this!!!!! As a part-time organic farmer and as a cancer
survivor who values CLEAN WATER and healthy, chemical-free
land, I am adamantly against "Fracking".
The probability of polluting our extensive aquifer, here in the
town of Caroline, through hydrofracking, is terrifyingly near.
PLEASE help us fight these large companies, who, through
misleading POOR landowners, have gained access to over 40% of
the land here in Caroline. The landowners were not aware, at
the time of signing leases, just how much havoc would be
wreaked on their land.PLEASE, THERE IS NO TIME TO WASTE!! WE NEED YOUR HELP!!!
Sincerely yours,
Joy W
-
Dear Governor Paterson:
PLEASE immediately withdraw the draft Supplemental GEIS because it is utterly inadequate to safeguard New York's environment and public health.
The Department of Environmental Conservation's (DEC's) own spill reports document existing regulations have failed to prevent or to require the clean up of hundreds of natural gas and oil drilling problems involving fires, explosions, polluted drinking water wells, home evacuations and massive drilling wastewater releases. DEC must not issue new gas drilling permits until those regulatory concerns have been fully resolved. That is why the Supplemental GEIS review must be restarted.
The draft SGEIS totally fails to propose a safe method of managing natural gas drilling wastewater and hydrofracking fluid. It simply leaves that ta to localities. Improper management of natural gas drilling wastewater has already caused massive toxic pollution impacts. The SGEIS must solve this disposal problem before new natural gas drilling permits are issued.
The DEC is woefully understaffed to cope with existing natural gas drilling problems. Only 17 staff are available to regulate nearly 7,000 existing natural gas wells. New gas drilling permits must not be issued until the SGEIS solves this problem.
The SGEIS fails to address critical issues associated with strict clean up liability, natural gas spill reporting, private right of legal action, insurance coverage and unfunded local government mandates. All those concerns must be addressed prior to the issuance of new gas drilling permits.
PLEASE KNOW THAT I AM COUNTING ON YOU to protect New York's natural resources and public health (which include my well water; the water, soil, air, and other natural resources used by the local farms that provide the food I eat, and therefore a huge element of my health; and the same for millions of New Yorkers). I APPRECIATE that your job must be extremely difficult. And again, I am counting on you.
PLEASE REMEMBER TO ACCOUNT not only for the lure of dollars-in from gas-drilling, but also for the dollars-out from contamination impact, public health damage from toxins unleashed by gas-drilling, loss of the natural beauty of the area, and very possibly more people leaving the state as a result of it all.
THIS REALLY MATTERS FOR ALL TIME. The draft SGEIS must be withdrawn. It is utterly inadequate to safeguard New York's environment and public health.
Thank you.
Sincerely,
Martha F
- I'm very concerned about the possible permanent environmental damage to the finger lakes region of Hydrofracking, and I believe we need better safeguards put in place. Please withdraw the draft SGEIS.
-
Dear Governor Patterson:
The draft Supplemental GEIS is utterly inadequate to safeguard New York's environment and public health.
The Department of Environmental Conservation's own spill reports document that existing regulations have failed to prevent or to require the cleanup of hundreds of natural gas and oil drilling problems involving fires, explosions, polluted drinking water wells, home evacuations and massive drilling wastewater releases. DEC must not issue new gas drilling permits until those regulatory concerns have been fully resolved. That is why the Supplemental GEIS review must be restarted.
All anyone has to do is check the record:
http://www.theithacajournal.com/article/20091120/NEWS01/911200402/Marcel...
http://www.benzeneleukemialawblog.com/2009/05/articles/benzene/informati...
http://www.stargazette.com/article/20091120/NEWS01/911200350/Pa.-residen...
http://www.marcellus-shale.us/Marcellus-air-quality.htm
http://www.hcn.org/issues/309/15873
http://clearville.wordpress.com/2009/10/11/clearville-tells-pa-officials...
http://tpmcafe.talkingpointsmemo.com/talk/blogs/lbs/2009/11/natural-gas-...
http://www.alternet.org/blogs/water/139279/thanks_to_natural_gas_drillin...'s_water_is_flammable/Haven't T. Boone Pickens and Halliburton done enough damage to the country and the world already? Do you want to be remembered as the guy who destroyed the environment of one of the U.S.'s most forested states? The basis of life comprises air and water. Fracking wells destroy both. What good does money do then?
Edward L. C
-
Dear Governor Paterson:
I know this must be a very difficult and frustrating time for you, and I applaud your efforts to get New York State out of its terrible budget situation.
But there is a much more far reaching catastrophe waiting to happen. There will be general disbelief how this could be allowed to progress on your watch.
Please withdraw the 9/30/09 draft Supplemental Environmental Impact Statement (dSGEIS) for Marcellus Shale Well Permit Issuance for Horizontal Drilling and High-Volume Hydrofracking.
Generations to come will appreciate your personal courage in saving our clean air and water and the Finger Lakes, one of the jewels of this state.
Sincerely,
Heide S -
Governor Paterson,
Please withdraw the draft Supplemental GEIS as it is utterly inadequate to safeguard New York's environment and public health.
The Department of Environmental Conservation's (DEC) own spill reports document existing regulations have failed to prevent or to require the clean up of hundreds of natural gas and oil drilling problems involving fires, explosions, polluted drinking water wells, home evacuations and massive drilling wastewater releases. DEC must not issue new gas drilling permits until those regulatory concerns have been fully resolved. That is why the Supplemental GEIS review must be restarted.The draft SGEIS totally fails to propose a safe method of managing natural gas drilling wastewater and hydrofracking fluid. It simply leaves that task to localities. Improper management of natural gas drilling wastewater has already caused massive toxic pollution impacts. The SGEIS must solve this disposal problem before new natural gas drilling permits are issued.
The DEC is woefully understaffed to cope with existing natural gas drilling problems. Only 17 staff are available to regulate nearly 7,000 existing natural gas wells. New gas drilling permits must not be issued until the SGEIS solves this problem.
The SGEIS fails to address critical issues associated with strict clean up liability, natural gas spill reporting, private right of legal action, insurance coverage and unfunded local government mandates. All those concerns must be addressed prior to the issuance of new gas drilling permits.
Thank you for your attention and service, Jesse B
-
I am a very happy citizen of Ithaca, NY, loving both this area and NY State in general.
The following lists my great concerns about the Marcellus Shale debacle.Please immediately withdraw the draft Supplemental GEIS because it is utterly inadequate to safeguard New York's environment and public health.
The Department of Environmental Conservation's (DEC) own spill reports document existing regulations have failed to prevent or to require the clean up of hundreds of natural gas and oil drilling problems involving fires, explosions, polluted drinking water wells, home evacuations and massive drilling wastewater releases. DEC must not issue new gas drilling permits until those regulatory concerns have been fully resolved. That is why the Supplemental GEIS review must be restarted.
The draft SGEIS totally fails to propose a safe method of managing natural gas drilling wastewater and hydrofracking fluid. It simply leaves that task to localities. Improper management of natural gas drilling wastewater has already caused massive toxic pollution impacts. The SGEIS must solve this disposal problem before new natural gas drilling permits are issued.
DEC is woefully understaffed to cope with existing natural gas drilling problems. Only 17 staff are available to regulate nearly 7,000 existing natural gas wells. New gas drilling permits must not be issued until the SGEIS solves this problem.
The SGEIS fails to address critical issues associated with strict clean up liability, natural gas spill reporting, private right of legal action, insurance coverage and unfunded local government mandates. All those concerns must be addressed prior to the issuance of new gas drilling permits.
-
Dear Governor Patterson:
I would like to ask that the state withdraw the dSGEIS and restart the review process in the interests of the residents and ecology of the Southern tier
thank you
Richard H - Governor David A. Paterson,
I am writing in regards to the draft Supplemental Environmental Impact
Statement (dSGEIS) for Marcellus Shale Well Permit Issuance for
Horizontal Drilling and High-Volume Hydrofracking.Please withdraw the draft Supplemental GEIS immediately.
I have been informed that the Department of Environmental Conservation
is woefully understaffed to cope with existing natural gas drilling
problems. Only 17 staff are available to regulate nearly 7,000
existing natural gas wells. New gas drilling permits must not be
issued until the SGEIS solves this problem.Additionally it has been noted that the draft SGEIS totally fails to
propose a safe method of managing natural gas drilling wastewater and
hydrofracking fluid. It simply leaves that task to localities.
Improper management of natural gas drilling wastewater has already
caused massive toxic pollution impacts. The SGEIS must solve this
disposal problem before new natural gas drilling permits are issued.Again, please withdraw the draft Supplemental GEIS immediately.
Sincerely,
Eigo K - Dear Governor Paterson,
I know as a citizen of the State of New York that you have a concern for the environment that we live in. I am writing to address the proposed natural gas drilling into the Marcellus shale and the draft Supplemental GEIS that addresses this drilling. I contend that you must immediately withdraw the draft Supplemental GEIS because it is utterly inadequate to safeguard New York's environment and public health.The Department of Environmental Conservation's (DEC) own spill reports document existing regulations have failed to prevent or to require the clean up hundreds of natural gas and oil drilling problems involving fires, explosions, polluted drinking water wells, home evacuations and massive drilling wastewater releases. DEC must not issue new gas drilling permits until those regulatory concerns have been fully resolved. That is why the Supplemental GEIS review must be restarted.
The draft SGEIS totally fails to propose a safe method of managing natural gas drilling wastewater and hydrofracking fluid. It simply leaves that task to localities. Improper management of natural gas drilling wastewater has already caused massive toxic pollution impacts. The SGEIS must solve this disposal problem before new natural gas drilling permits are issued.
DEC is woefully understaffed to cope with existing natural gas drilling problems. Only 17 staff are available to regulate nearly 7,000 existing natural gas wells. New gas drilling permits must not be issued until the SGEIS solves this problem.
The SGEIS fails to address critical issues associated with strict clean up liability, natural gas spill reporting, private right of legal action, insurance coverage and unfunded local government mandates. All those concerns must be addressed prior to the issuance of new gas drilling permits.
I have seen first hand the impact of unregulated natural gas drilling on a community in western Wyoming. The landscape was scarred and barren. The fragile ranch land was left unusable for the people who lived there. Please do not let this happen in our home. The supposed financial benefits are not worth the devastation that will occur.
Thank you for your consideration.
Sincerely,
Matthew C. M
-
Please do not pollute our drinking water!!
Please withdraw the dSGEIS.Bibi S
-
Dear Governor Patterson:
I urge you to immediately withdraw the draft Supplemental GEIS because it is utterly inadequate to safeguard New York's environment and public health.
The Department of Environmental Conservation's (DEC) own spill reports document existing regulations have failed to prevent or to require the clean up of hundreds of natural gas and oil drilling problems involving fires, explosions, polluted drinking water wells, home evacuations and massive drilling wastewater releases. DEC must not issue new gas drilling permits until those regulatory concerns have been fully resolved. That is why the Supplemental GEIS review must be restarted.
The draft SGEIS totally fails to propose a safe method of managing natural gas drilling wastewater and hydrofracking fluid. It simply leaves that task to localities. Improper management of natural gas drilling wastewater has already caused massive toxic pollution impacts. The SGEIS must solve this disposal problem before new natural gas drilling permits are issued.
DEC is woefully understaffed to cope with existing natural gas drilling problems. Only 17 staff are available to regulate nearly 7,000 existing natural gas wells. New gas drilling permits must not be issued until the SGEIS solves this problem.
The SGEIS fails to address critical issues associated with strict clean up liability, natural gas spill reporting, private right of legal action, insurance coverage and unfunded local government mandates. All those concerns must be addressed prior to the issuance of new gas drilling permits.
I appreciate your consideration of these views.
Sincerely,
Paul L. H
-
Dear Gov. Paterson,
Please withdraw the 9/30/09 draft Supplemental Environmental Impact Statement (dSGEIS) for Marcellus Shale Well Permit Issuance for Horizontal Drilling and High-Volume Hydrofracking.
As a fourth generation resident of Ithacan NY, I feel very strongly about the desecration of our ancestral land and so urge you to act to withdraw this immediately.
Kathleen E. L
- Dear Governor Paterson:
After a 25-year career in the U.S. Foreign Service and no place to call home, I decided to move to the Fingerlakes region to make a home for myself for the rest of my life. All that I read made me believe that nowhere else would I find a place to rival the quality of life, spirit of community, activism, transportation, medical care, and incredible natural beauty of this place. Unfortunately, my reading somehow missed anything about Marcellus Shale and the greedy corporate seduction of homeowners' mineral rights out from under them.
I am writing to urge you to immediately withdraw the draft Supplemental GEIS! You don't need me, a recent New York transplant, to tell you it is your responsibility as governor to safeguard New York's environment and public health, something the Supplemental GEIS is profoundly inadequate to ensure.
The Department of Environmental Conservation's (DEC) own spill reports document existing regulations have failed to prevent or to require the clean up of hundreds of natural gas and oil drilling problems involving fires, explosions, polluted drinking water wells, home evacuations and massive drilling wastewater releases. DEC must not issue new gas drilling permits until those regulatory concerns have been fully resolved. That is why the Supplemental GEIS review must be restarted.
The draft SGEIS totally fails to propose a safe method of managing natural gas drilling wastewater and hydrofracking fluid. It simply leaves that task to localities. Improper management of natural gas drilling wastewater has already caused massive toxic pollution impacts. The SGEIS must solve this disposal problem before new natural gas drilling permits are issued.
DEC is woefully understaffed to cope with existing natural gas drilling problems. Only 17 staff are available to regulate nearly 7,000 existing natural gas wells. New gas drilling permits must not be issued until the SGEIS solves this problem.
The SGEIS fails to address critical issues associated with strict clean up liability, natural gas spill reporting, private right of legal action, insurance coverage and unfunded local government mandates. All those concerns must be addressed prior to the issuance of new gas drilling permits.
Please withdraw the draft Supplemental GEIS. Your constituency deserves to enter the New Year knowing that you put their safety over corporate profits.
Sincerely,
Elizabeth C
- Dear Governor Patterson-
I applaud your efforts to cut spending by the New York State Government. I recognize that we have many hard choices ahead of us and all will have to sacrifice. I also recognize that drilling for natural gas represents a great boon for many hard pressed New Yorkers and the State as a whole.
However, I am very concerned about our environment and any effects of fracking ,drilling and pipelines will be with us indefinitely. We must be sure that we maintain our clean water and healthy environment for generations to come. With this in mind I urge you to withdraw the the Draft Supplemental Generic Environmental Impact Statement released by the DEC in September 09. The Environmental Impact of this process on a huge scale must be studied much more carefully. The Gas extraction industry seems to have been given a blank check to come into our state and do as they please. I would face more scrutiny if I wanted to add to my own house.
I live 200' away from a large tract of land with a full surface lease and while I wish for prosperity for my neighbors we do not want to gain this at the expense of our land and water.Thank you,
Tobias D - Gov. Patterson,
Please stop the drilling! Our water, health and future depend on you to
stop this insanity all for greed. Think about it...Aloha,
Stuart S
- Dear Governor Paterson,
As a citizen of New York state, I would like to express my grave
concern regarding drilling and hydro-fracking in the Marcellus Shale.
I feel that it is extremely important for you to withdraw the draft
Supplemental Environmental Impact Statemen for Marcellus Shale Well
Permit Issuance for Horizontal Drilling and High-Volume Hydrofracking.
There are a number of serious issues related to natural gas which need
to be addressed before any permits are reissued. Thank you for
helping to protect the citizens and environment of New York State!Best,
David R
- Gov. Paterson,
Please enact a moratorium on gas drilling until USEPA Study on water contamination is complete. Please withdraw draft Supplemental Generic Environmental Impact Statement.
DEC regs are way too permissive - we can not overturn polluted water, air, soil. These must be our first and foremost concerns.
The gas will still be there once we have taken the time to thoroughly study the environmental impact of hydro-fracking.
Gov. Paterson, please take the time to make sure this study is not disadvantaging our residents in the long-run so as to benefit the oil companies in the short-run.
THANK YOU!
- Dear Governor Paterson
I am writing about the proposed drilling in the Marcellus Shale in New York State. I urge you to immediately withdraw the draft Supplemental Generic Environmental Impact Statement because it fails to safeguard the New York State water supply, environment, or public health.The current draft SGEIS is completely inadequate and should be completely withdrawn until a variety of critical issues are addressed. The pressures from the gas and oil drilling industry and their emphasis on increasing jobs should not overshadow the short and long term affects on NY's other natural resources and the jobs that could be lost in the tourism industry on which the Finger Lakes region depends. In addition, problems which have already happened with fires, explosions, polluted drinking water wells, home evacuations and massive drilling wastewater releases will adversely affect local governments as well as individual homeowners and residents. This will affect many people who did not sign leases, but who live in proximity to proposed gas drilling projects.
The Department of Environmental Conservation's (DEC) own spill reports document existing regulations have failed to prevent or to require the clean up of hundreds of natural gas and oil drilling problems, so to allow the DEC to issue new gas drilling permits under this SGEIS would be irresponsible. To expect local governments to come up with a safe method for managing natural gas drilling wastewater and hydrofracking fluid, when the DEC has failed to do so is outrageous.
In addition, at current staffing levels, the DEC cannot even cope with natural gas drilling problems from existing permits. Only 17 staff are available to regulate nearly 7,000 existing natural gas wells. New gas drilling permits must not be issued until the SGEIS solves this problem.
In short, the SGEIS fails to address these critical issues
*effective natural gas spill reporting and regulations
*enough staff to adequately enforce stricter regulations
*preserve the private right to legal action for individuals
*requiring proper insurance coverage
*negative economic impacts on tourism from noise, environmental degradation, toxic pollution and radioactive waste
*negative impacts on public health from contamination of drinking water supplies
*industrial consumption of public water supplies
*no unfunded local government mandates
All those concerns must be addressed prior to the issuance of new gas drilling permits.As Governor, you have a duty to protect New York's natural resources and public health. Withdraw the draft SGEIS until all these concerns are truly addressed and not pushed under the rug. Gas drilling under these conditions is NOT in the best interest of New York State.
Sincerely,
Abbe L - Dear Governor Paterson
Please withdraw the Department of Environmental Conservations draft Supplenental Environmental Impact State regarding hydrofracturing for gas in the Marcellus Shale.
The draft Supplemental GEIS is merely a supplemental to the 1992 GEIS. When the 1992 GEIS was done, hydrofracturing was a new technology and had not even come into use. Therefore the dSGEIS is totally inadequate to adress this matter.
Other reasons the dSGEIS must be withdrawn include:
1. The Department of Environmental Conservation's (DEC) own spill reports show hundreds of natural gas and oil drilling problems involving fires, explosions, polluted drinking water wells, home evacuations and massive drilling wastewater releases have never been taken care of. DEC must not issue new gas drilling permits until those regulatory concerns have been fully resolved.Â
2. The DEC is already woefully understaffed to cope with existing natural gas drilling problems. Only 17 staff are available to regulate the nearly 7,000 existing natural gas wells in place now; they can hardly be expected to deal with tens of thousands of more complex ones.
3. The dSGEIS fails to take into account radioactive hot spots along the Marcellus Shale. Thirteen of such spots in Steuben and Schuyler Counties alone. Four of the six most radioactive spots are in my small County of Schuyler.
4. There is an assumption in all of this that natural gas is a cleaner fossil feul and must be a bride to the future. But gas obtained by hydrofracking is likely to emit more greenhouse gasses than it saves. The Tompkins County Planning Department calculated that the emissions associated with one well would be twice the annual emissions caused by one year of Tompkins County government operations. There could be as many as 5100 wells in that County alone!
Please, for the health and safety of New York's citizens and environment, with draw the DEC's dSGEIS and place a moratorium on all gas drilling operations.
Thank You
Sincerely yours,
Jeanne F
- Dear Governor,
I join those urging you to call a moratorium on further implementation of any plans referring to hydrofracking until the concerns that have arisen are addressed and problems solved.
***********
That is, please immediately withdraw the draft Supplemental GEIS,
because it is utterly inadequate to safeguard New York's environment and public health.The Department of Environmental Conservation's (DEC) own spill reports document existing regulations have failed to prevent or to require the clean up of hundreds of natural gas and oil drilling problems involving fires, explosions, polluted drinking water wells, home evacuations and massive drilling wastewater releases. DEC must not issue new gas drilling permits until those regulatory concerns have been fully resolved. That is why the Supplemental GEIS review must be restarted.
The draft SGEIS totally fails to propose a safe method of managing natural gas drilling wastewater and hydrofracking fluid. It simply leaves that task to localities. Improper management of natural gas drilling wastewater has already caused massive toxic pollution impacts. The SGEIS must solve this disposal problem before new natural gas drilling permits are issued.
DEC is woefully understaffed to cope with existing natural gas drilling problems. Only 17 staff are available to regulate nearly 7,000 existing natural gas wells. New gas drilling permits must not be issued until the SGEIS solves this problem.
************Please call a moratorium. My own home, as all others on this road, relies on well water, and lands nearby are leased. We desperately need your help in preserving the safety of our water supply, as well as our peaceful community environment.
Sincerely,
Beverly H W
- Dear Governor Paterson,
I am writing to you today because I care about New York's water supply and I care about all the people drinking it. I know that some people are pushing for Marcellus shale drilling as they see it as bringing more jobs to the area. But please do not be short-sighted as many are being. I urge you to immediately withdraw the draft Supplemental GEIS if you truly care about the environment and public health of New York state.
The DEC's own spill reports document existing regulations have failed to prevent or to require the clean up of hundreds of natural gas and oil drilling problems involving fires, explosions, polluted drinking water wells, home evacuations and massive drilling wastewater releases. The DEC must not issue new gas drilling permits until those regulatory concerns have been fully resolved. Additionally, the draft SGEIS totally fails to propose a safe method of managing natural gas drilling wastewater and hydrofracking fluid. It simply leaves that task to localities. Improper management of natural gas drilling wastewater has already caused massive toxic pollution impacts. The SGEIS must solve this disposal problem before new natural gas drilling permits are issued.
By educating myself and others on these issues and by contacting you, my government representative, I am doing what I can to protect the people of New York. Please hold up your end of the bargain.
Respectfully,
Samantha W
- Governor Paterson: I'm joining with others to ask you to immediately withdraw the draft Supplemental GEIS because it is utterly inadequate to safeguard New York's environment and public health.
I have great faith in you -- in spite of all the hassle the NY Legislature has given you in recent weeks over the budget. I've heard you speak on the radio and I watched the town meeting from Syracuse a couple of weeks ago. I believe that you will do the right thing with the budget and with the environmental issues involving the Marcellus shale and "fracking."
Sincerely, Nancy I
- Dear Governor Paterson,
I am very concerned about the draft Supplemental GEIS for Marcellus Shale Well Permit Issuance for Horizontal Drilling and High-Volume Hydrofracking.
It is unacceptable to ignore the human and environmental consequences of this action. Unless the real past and future pollution of gas drilling are adequately addressed I cannot support drilling. You have a responsibility to the health of the people of New York, and to the preservation of it's natural spaces. Please withdraw the draft Supplemental GEIS. There has already been too much pollution and too many problems.
The Department of Environmental Conservation's (DEC) own spill reports document existing regulations have failed to prevent or to require the clean up of hundreds of natural gas and oil drilling problems involving fires, explosions, polluted drinking water wells, home evacuations and massive drilling wastewater releases. DEC must not issue new gas drilling permits until those regulatory concerns have been fully resolved. That is why the Supplemental GEIS review must be restarted.
The draft SGEIS totally fails to propose a safe method of managing natural gas drilling wastewater and hydrofracking fluid. It simply leaves that task to localities. Improper management of natural gas drilling wastewater has already caused massive toxic pollution impacts. The SGEIS must solve this disposal problem before new natural gas drilling permits are issued.
DEC is woefully understaffed to cope with existing natural gas drilling problems. Only 17 staff are available to regulate nearly 7,000 existing natural gas wells. New gas drilling permits must not be issued until the SGEIS solves this problem.
The SGEIS fails to address critical issues associated with strict clean up liability, natural gas spill reporting, private right of legal action, insurance coverage and unfunded local government mandates. All those concerns must be addressed prior to the issuance of new gas drilling permits.
Sincerely,
Daisy H
- Dear Governor Paterson, I am a land owner in Otsego County and consider myself to be very fortunate to be involved in the good fortune of the natural gas find. However, this land is very precious to me and should not be misused for the sake of finding new resources. Although I have a lot to lose financially, I am asking you to delay drilling until the resources in this area can be drilled without toxic effects to our environment. I understand that the EPA findings are flawed and the there are too few evironmental agents to enforce the standards. We risk ruined water and loss of the pristine lands as well as land values. Please do not let the fuel lobbies and greed ruin our lands. In time, technology will find a way to do this correctly. It is worth waiting for.
Thank you,
Bernadette M
- Gov Patterson!!! I now things are tough for NY I teach but we need to protect our land for future generations since we will need to be more self sufficient and destruction of our land will mean the destruction of NY and who we are!!Please,_*withdraw the 9/30/09 draft Supplemental Environmental Impact Statement (dSGEIS) for Marcellus Shale Well Permit Issuance for Horizontal Drilling and High-Volume Hydrofracking. *_This is more important than local yearly cuts! This is our environment ..our refuge...Sincerely, Eileen M
- Gov Patterson - .Please withdraw the 9/30/09 draft Supplemental Environmental Impact Statement (dSGEIS) for Marcellus Shale Well Permit Issuance for Horizontal Drilling and High-Volume Hydrofracking. (read below for facts)
Governor, you know for a fact this drilling is causing pollutants in wells and in the land, which causes cancer and other life threatening illnesses/diseases. If you truly love NYS, you will stop this. If not, then it would be true, you are the NY Governor for the love of greed, political power and selfish corrupted pride. With that mindset, you will end up being the biggest victim of it all by having to live with the fact you allowed this drilling to happen destroying/causing death to thousands of men, women and children and their hard work.
If this is not stopped, you will see thousands of NY'ers leaving this state. Keep NY healthy and beautiful.Kathy
- I am writing to urge you to withdraw the draft of the
Supplemental Environmental Impact Statement (dSGEIS) for Marcellus
Shale Well Permit Issuance for Horizontal Drilling and High-Volume
Hydrofracking.
This is an environmental disaster in the making. A far sighted
approach to this decision is needed. "Clean-up" costs (monetary and
environmentally) for a possible disaster associated with the
horizontal drilling are certainly worth the consideration to do
further investigation.Thank you for your attention to this very important issue,
Wendy F
- Dear Governor Paterson:
As I hope you know by now, there is considerable concern among New York State Citizens surrounding the proposed natural gas drilling in various parts of the state. Our concern is based on the possibility - and by many accounts, the likelihood - of contamination of potable water supplies that lie beneath our feet. Since water is not confined to property lines and political boundaries, the possiblility of contamination is a real concern for people beyond the parcels of land where drilling is taking place, as well as beyond New York State itself.
The concerned are not saying there can be no drilling ever, but simply that a rigorous and exhaustive means of protection of human and environmental health needs to be firmly in place first. This is not an unreasonable idea, but simply common sense. Please consider the following specific points:
1. The Department of Environmental Conservation's (DEC) own spill reports document existing regulations have failed to prevent or to require the clean up of hundreds of natural gas and oil drilling problems involving fires, explosions, polluted drinking water wells, home evacuations and massive drilling wastewater releases. DEC must not issue new gas drilling permits until those regulatory concerns have been fully resolved. That is why the Supplemental GEIS review must be restarted.
2. The draft SGEIS totally fails to propose a safe method of managing natural gas drilling wastewater and hydrofracking fluid. It simply leaves that task to localities. Improper management of natural gas drilling wastewater has already caused massive toxic pollution impacts. The SGEIS must solve this disposal problem before new natural gas drilling permits are issued.
3. DEC is woefully understaffed to cope with existing natural gas drilling problems. Only 17 staff are available to regulate nearly 7,000 existing natural gas wells. New gas drilling permits must not be issued until the SGEIS solves this problem.
4. The SGEIS fails to address critical issues associated with strict clean up liability, natural gas spill reporting, private right of legal action, insurance coverage and unfunded local government mandates. All those concerns must be addressed prior to the issuance of new gas drilling permits.As a result, Governor Paterson, I ask that you immediately withdraw the draft Supplemental GEIS because it is utterly inadequate to safeguard the environment and public health of New York and beyond. Thank you very much.
Sincerely,
Michael F. T. - Dear Governor Paterson:
My wife and I moved to New York State, our native state, after my having spent 31 years living in New Mexico working as a physicist at the Los Alamos National Laboratory. The great university of Cornell attracted me because of its renowned faculty and facilities and because of its healthy and beautiful location, not to mention its being my alma mater. Indeed, starting with my father and ending with our youngest daughter, 5 members of my family have been Cornell graduates. This university, which provides a large influx of money and provides a large number and variety of job opportunities in upstate New York, would lose its most highly valued members of its faculty and lose its ability to attract the best new faculty members and students if its general environment were to deteriorate. Other universities have their perks such as better access to transportation and other amenities. Any deterioration of our environment due to hydrofracking and horizontal drilling will receive widespread media coverage. Then the Finger Lakes region will no longer attract a large amount of tourist dollars leading to further stagnation of this great state's economy. If the natural gas is valuable now, it can garner only more value in the future after we have learned how to extract optimally this precious resource in an environmentally-friendly way. (As I have heard, the British were in a hurry to extract oil from the North Sea when it was much cheaper than currently. Now that the North Sea reserves have dried up, they purchase their oil now at much higher prices from Russia.)
Please withdraw the draft Supplemental GEIS for Marcellus Shale Well Permit Issuance for Horizontal Drilling and High-Volume Hydrofracking and let's manage this major environmental engineering problem thoughtfully and technically correctly!
The draft Supplemental GEIS should be withdrawn immediately because it is utterly inadequate to safeguard New York's environment and public health.
The Department of Environmental Conservation's (DEC) own spill reports document that existing regulations have failed to prevent or to require the clean up of hundreds of natural gas and oil drilling problems involving fires, explosions, polluted drinking water wells, home evacuations and massive drilling wastewater releases. DEC must not issue new gas drilling permits until those regulatory concerns have been fully resolved. That is why the Supplemental GEIS review must be restarted.
The draft SGEIS totally fails to propose a safe method of managing natural gas drilling wastewater and hydrofracking fluid. It simply leaves that task to localities. Improper management of natural gas drilling wastewater has already caused massive toxic pollution impacts. The SGEIS must solve this disposal problem before new natural gas drilling permits are issued.
DEC is woefully understaffed to cope with existing natural gas drilling problems. Only 17 staff are available to regulate nearly 7,000 existing natural gas wells. New gas drilling permits must not be issued until the SGEIS solves this problem.
The SGEIS fails to address critical issues associated with strict clean up liability, natural gas spill reporting, private right of legal action, insurance coverage and unfunded local government mandates. All those concerns must be addressed prior to the issuance of new gas drilling permits.
Sincerely,
Leaf T., Ph.D. - Dear Governor Patterson,
PLEASE withdraw the draft Supplemental GEIS.
The AQUIFER in upstate New York is a priceless asset
and is not to be destroyed for a quick 15 profit on gas drilling.
All the science and evidence shows that horizontal fracking
pollutes aquifers.
Do you want your grandchildren drinking BENZINE?
IN GOOD CONSCIENCE,
PROTECT US.Thank you,
Carol Ann G. -
Hi Walter,
Thanks for keeping us informed. I sent a message out to many of my friends and clients with a statement and the link to your site to sign the letter for withdrawal of the DEC document. It was a great way to build momentum for what I feel is one of the most important environmental concerns for our area.
Thanks for what you do for the community!
Christa B.
-
Dear Gov. Patterson,
I want to thank you again for your courageous and strong support for marriage equality in New York State. My partner of 18 years and I are waiting to get married until we can do it legally in our home town. We feel some urgency to this matter since we want to get married while our remaining 3 parents are still alive, so we appreciate your pushing for a vote this year.
However, we do not want to get married on land devastated by the fracking process to extract the natural gas in our underground shale. We feel this issue is of utmost urgency. We are alarmed at the possibility of allowing gas companies to begin this work in our region. We know of the devastation in other areas, including our neighboring state of Pennsylvania where there have been numerous accidents and rural residents can no longer drink their well water.
We count on you, as Governor, to protect New York's natural resources and public health. Our family requests that you immediately withdraw the draft Supplemental GEIS because it is utterly inadequate to safeguard New York's environment and public health. Existing regulations have failed to prevent or to require the clean up hundreds of natural gas and oil drilling problems involving fires, explosions, polluted drinking water wells, home evacuations and massive drilling wastewater releases. In addition, DEC is critically understaffed to cope with existing natural gas drilling problems. Only 17 staff are available to regulate nearly 7,000 existing natural gas wells.
While the short term profits may seem attractive to local homeowners and the state, allowing massive, under-regulated gas drilling will lead to economic and environmental devastation of our region. Our family urges you to put the brakes on this effort, and invest seriously in alternative energy sources that do not put our health and the planet at risk. I urge you to re-watch former Vice President Al Gore's "An Inconvenient Truth," and use your power as Governor to protect the land, water, and people of New York State.
Eventually, our family would like to celebrate a beautiful outdoor marriage ceremony, celebrating both marriage equality and the environmental protection and health of New York State!
Sincerely,
Brenda J. M.
-
Dear Gov. Paterson:
As a former citizen of (and concerned party for) Tompkins County, I am
VERY concerned about plans to drill for natural gas there,
particularly plans to use Fracture (Frack) drilling techniques.Tompkins County is a Central New York gem—a wonderful resource of
stunning natural landscapes, unique habitats, exciting
entrepreneurship, important activism, and a unified community that
takes action to keep their area pristine. I assure you that deep
fracturing drilling will not only fracture the land, it will fracture
that community that’s such a draw to an otherwise depressed, bleak
area.Tompkins County is an economic and social bright spot in an otherwise
failing area (I grew up in Cortland, part of the surrounding area
that’s failing both economically and socially). Its future is
delicate—a controversial and divisive (and let’s face it, just plain
wrong) act like deep fracturing drilling WILL spoil the unique
communal identity that Tompkins County ALONE maintains.I’m one of many well-educated successful young people I know who hope
to someday return to Tompkins County. Let me be clear: If Frack
Drilling of the Marcellus Shale affects Tompkins County the way I’m
sure it will, I will never again be a resident of Upstate New York. I
am not alone in this stance.Please see to it that Deep Frack Drilling is halted in Tompkins
County. Thank you.Sincerely,
Sam W
-
Governor David A. Paterson,
Please, immediately withdraw the draft Supplemental GEIS because it is utterly inadequate to safeguard New York's environment and public health.
Department of Environmental Conservation's (DEC) own spill reports document existing regulations have failed to prevent or to require the clean up hundreds of natural gas and oil drilling problems involving fires, explosions, polluted drinking water wells, home evacuations and massive drilling wastewater releases. DEC must not issue new gas drilling permits until those regulatory concerns have been fully resolved. That is why the Supplemental GEIS review must be restarted.
The draft SGEIS totally fails to propose a safe method of managing natural gas drilling wastewater and hydrofracking fluid. It simply leaves that task to localities. Improper management of natural gas drilling wastewater has already caused massive toxic pollution impacts. The SGEIS must solve this disposal problem before new natural gas drilling permits are issued. DEC is woefully understaffed to cope with existing natural gas drilling problems. Only 17 staff are available to regulate nearly 7,000 existing natural gas wells. New gas drilling permits must not be issued until the SGEIS solves this problem.
The SGEIS fails to address critical issues associated with strict clean up liability, natural gas spill reporting, private right of legal action, insurance coverage and unfunded local government mandates. All those concerns must be addressed prior to the issuance of new gas drilling permits.I appreciate your consideration of my concerns,
Barbara H
-
Save Otsego County and New York State! BAN the Drilling!
Lillian V.
-
I urge you to withdraw dSEEIS. We need more time for objective research and discussion, weighing economic plusses with quality of life and health issues.
Jean P. S.
-
Governor
You must immediately withdraw the draft Supplemental GEIS because it is utterly inadequate to safeguard New York's environment and public health.
The Department of Environmental Conservation's (DEC) own spill reports document existing regulations have failed to prevent or to require the clean up of hundreds of natural gas and oil drilling problems involving fires, explosions, polluted drinking water wells, home evacuations and massive drilling wastewater releases. DEC must not issue new gas drilling permits until those regulatory concerns have been fully resolved. That is why the Supplemental GEIS review must be restarted.
The draft SGEIS totally fails to propose a safe method of managing natural gas drilling wastewater and hydrofracking fluid. It simply leaves that task to localities. Improper management of natural gas drilling wastewater has already caused massive toxic pollution impacts. The SGEIS must solve this disposal problem before new natural gas drilling permits are issued.
DEC is woefully understaffed to cope with existing natural gas drilling problems. Only 17 staff are available to regulate nearly 7,000 existing natural gas wells. New gas drilling permits must not be issued until the SGEIS solves this problem.
The SGEIS fails to address critical issues associated with strict clean up liability, natural gas spill reporting, private right of legal action, insurance coverage and unfunded local government mandates. All those concerns must be addressed prior to the issuance of new gas drilling permits.
Share your personal concerns with Governor Paterson. Please be respectful, but remember Governor Paterson has a duty to protect New York's natural resources and public health. That is why the draft SGEIS must be withdrawn.
Christine F
Ithaca, NY -
Dear Governor Patterson,
Thank you for your careful governance of our state, and your concern that the water and environment of New York are safeguarded against pollution. Nevertheless, I hope that you will keep the following points in mind, as you tackle the urgent problem of the use of hydraulic fracturing in gas drilling throughout the State:
1. The New York DEC has prepared a draft Supplemental GEIS that is not an adequate document on which to make judgments that will affect all of us New Yorkers in the present and future. I attended the hearing on the SGEIS at Stuyvesant High School in Manhattan, and I was impressed by the number of critics of the SGEIS that filled the Stuyvesant auditorium. I spoke at the hearing, voicing my concern that the document did not cover potential drilling in regions beyond the Marcellus Shale formation at all (although it was mentioned as a possibility in the SGEIS), and that the human effect upon our State's citizens--their water, their land, their health, and their environment--was not addressed clearly or adequately by the SGEIS. Concerns of other speakers ranged from reliance on the document's outdated geological and environmental data to suggested use of spacing requirements designed for water wells, not gas wells.
2. I was told by a DEC representative at the meeting that the effects of drilling in Lake Erie, which overlays oil shale deposits, had not been covered in the report because "that would take another 800 pages." Clearly, a report that doesn't even address the possibility of pollution of one of our major resources (the source of drinking water for the second largest city in the state, and surrounding areas) by hydraulic fracturing in drilling for gas. This is an outrageous oversight; it must be corrected in a new, comprehensive draft SGEIS.
3. Evidence was presented at the New York City hearing that the State DEC's own spill reports indicate that existing regulations have failed to prevent or to require the clean up of hundreds of natural gas and oil drilling problems involving fires, explosions, polluted drinking water wells, home evacuations and massive drilling wastewater releases. DEC must not issue new gas drilling permits until those regulatory concerns have been fully resolved. The current SGEIS document does not adequately address this regulatory problem.
4. The draft SGEIS ignores safe management of natural gas drilling wastewater and hydrofracking fluid, leaving that task to localities. Since improper management of natural gas drilling wastewater has already caused massive toxic pollution in numerous localities, nationwide, with resultant cleanup costs far beyond the resources of towns, villages, and cities, the "local cleanup" approach needs to be discarded before new natural gas drilling permits are issued.
5. As became clear at the hearing, DEC is woefully understaffed to adequately address existing natural gas drilling problems. Only 17 staff members are available to regulate nearly 7,000 existing natural gas wells. New gas drilling permits must not be issued until a new SGEIS addresses and provides a solution this problem.
6. The SGEIS fails to address critical issues associated with strict clean up liability, natural gas spill reporting, private right of legal action, insurance coverage and unfunded local government mandates. All those concerns must be addressed in a new SGEIS prior to the issuance of new gas drilling permits.With these points in mind, I sincerely hope that you will instruct the DEC to withdraw the SGEIS as soon as possible, and re-start the environmental review process, to ensure the health of our State's citizens, the maintenance of our environment, and the safe economic growth of our State.
Thank you for your attention to this matter.
Sincerely yours,
Francis T. W., Ph.D., M.F.A.
New York, NY -
Please withdraw the draft Supplemental GEIS because it is utterly inadequate to safeguard New York's environment and public health.
DEC is woefully understaffed to cope with existing natural gas drilling problems. Only 17 staff are available to regulate nearly 7,000 existing natural gas wells.What do we do when the drinking water is polluted?
Make the connection.
Loretta H.
-
Dear Mr. Paterson,
I am writing to urge you to withdraw the dSGEIS and to place a ban on
natural gas drilling within our state. In the areas where drilling
has been done--our neighbors in PA, for example--it has proven to
degrade instead of rejuvenate. Horizontal Drilling and High-Volume
Hydrofracking is UNSAFE. I am 22 years old, grew up in East Meredith,
NY and have recently returned here to work and create a life for
myself. I want to stay. I want my friends and family members to
stay. I believe that allowing gas drilling will destroy our
environment, our property, our roads, our way of life. It is
unethical for companies to hold sway over our government when it is
the local population who should have the right to control our future.
Having clean water is our future. Having roads is our future. Having
a place to live that is so achingly beautiful that I can never wait to
get back to it, that is our future.
Please place a ban. Please listen to the thousands upon thousands who
are begging you to protect us.
Thank you.
Sita S -
Dear Governor Paterson:
We applaud your courageous efforts in dealing with the budget situation in New York. Not many high level officials would be willing to stand up to the many special interests promoting out-of-control spending of State resources.
We would like also – when appropriate – to applaud you for withdrawing the 9/30/09 draft Supplemental Environmental Impact Statement (dSGEIS) for Marcellus Shale Well Permit Issuance for Horizontal Drilling and High-Volume Hydrofracking.
We have seen the devastation caused in other states by inadequate regulation of gas drilling operations. The State DEC's own documents alert us to the potential problems related to toxic pollution and long lasting damage to the physical environment. We have a beautiful Finger Lakes area and we want to defend its beauty as well as its economic benefits as a vacation destination. Bad water, contaminated land. and a scarred infrastructure would jeopardize the attractiveness of our communities.
We are all aware of the inadequate staff in DEC to deal with the existing natural gas drilling operations. Issuing new gas permits without solving this dilemma will only increase the magnitude of the dilemma and multiply the accompanying hazards.
Let us applaud you for another courageous step when you withdraw the Supplemental GEIS in the interests of safeguarding New York's environment and our families' health.
Sincerely yours,
Royal D. C.
-
Dear Governor Patterson,
This is my first time writing you---though I have followed your term in office. It's about my concern, my great concern, that the natural gas drilling via hydro-fracking will proceed without the strictest oversight of the many spin-off problems already documented in many parts of the country where this approach has been used---and that there is no evidence that they would not occur with similar drastic consequences in our own locale.
The action that I would like you to very much consider is to extend the period where the Supplemental
Environmental Impact Statement can be addressed to the satisfaction of all concerned so that my concerns and, to my knowledge, those of so many, many others can be given the time and attention without which such drilling, I believe, would be a travesty of monumental proportions.
I see this situation as about the most serious that has presented itself in the 80 years of my New york State residence. I cannot see our lives will have any rest (or safety) until this situation has been brought to resolution.
I thank you so much for your attention to this matter,
Sincerely,
Monty B.
-
Dear Governor Patterson:
Please withdraw the (dSGEIS) Marcellus Shale Well Permit Issuance for Horizontal Drilling and High-Volume Hydrofracking. There is no way to protect the public and the aquifer from radiation poisoning.
Also...
Please have impartial analysis of residential micro-hydro installation. NYSERDA has too much power company representation to make an impartial analysis of this clean, abundant and natural power resource of New York State. See my website for detailed information regarding this resource. (BarryLebost.com).
I am the inventor, financier and installer of the Lebost Wind Turbine also funded by NYSERDA and NYU in 1980 on the roof of an NYU building in New York City.
Author of The Universal Properties of Acceleration A New View on Gravity
Active Microhydro consultant
Member of the Gardiner Green Energy Task Force
Barry Lebost
http://BarryLebost.com -
Dear Governor Patterson,
Once upon a time the Daily News published one of the most famous headlines:
FORD TO CITY: DROP DEAD.New York City government was threatened with bankruptcy and President
Right now, Upstate New York, or at least all of the area in the Marcellus Shale zone, needs your help in insuring that we use the rule of law and available scientific knowledge, in cautiously shaping the policies that will protect our property and our environment, even as we profit from the extraction of natural gas in future years. This is the need of everyone, those who have signed leases and those who have not.
For this to happen we must start with a full Environmental Impact Statement that reviews available science and puts into effect laws and regulatory processes.
This means terminating the ongoing GEIS and starting a serious quest for rules that will conserve our current riches of healthy water and natural beauty, and the homes we have made here.The City of New York, and its watershed, have been offered tentative protection , and thus have less to fear from the current absence of regulations.
We in Tompkins County New York have no such protection, except as you are willing to help us stop the current stampede. Our local zoning laws, the land we have worked hard to protect and the peace and tranquility of our houses, are all helpless before the oncoming storm.
So we plead with you, as Democrats from Upstate New York: Do not forget that we live here and that we all will lose if this is not attended to immediately.
If you refuse to stop the GEIS and start fresh, the Ithaca Journal headline might well read : "Patterson to Upstate : DROP DEAD."
Please don't let this happen.
Linda L
-
sent this to Maurice Hinchey
Congressman Hinchey, Like many New Yorkers, I am concerned about the proposed hydrofrack drilling in the Marcellus shale and it's potential environmental impact on our state's water supply. If the draft supplemental Generic Environmental Impact Statement (dSGEIS)is adopted, it will mean an end to the defacto ban on Horizontal Drilling and High-Volume Hydrofracking in the Marcellus Shale. We are concerned that dsGEIS does not adequately address the shortcomings of the original GEIS (primarily in the areas of regulation and enforcement) that has resulting in hundreds of petroleum related ground water source contaminations and spills being left insufficiently remediated (if at all). Given the proposed scale of Marcellus Shale Drilling, an unchanged GEIS (essentially what the dsGEIS results in) will allow for and even guarantee a dramatic increase in similar contaminations. Prevention is ALWAYS better than remediation. Join us in asking Governor Patterson to withdraw the dsGEIS so that a dialog that addresses the true cost and dangers of fracking can take place before an irrevocable decision has been taken. Please do so publicly by signing our coalition letter and by taking the matter up directly with Governor Patterson at you earliest convenience. http://www.toxicstargeting.com/MarcellusShale/coalition_letter
Adam B
-
Honorable Sir:
I respectfully request that you immediately withdraw the draft Supplemental GEIS because it is utterly inadequate to safeguard New York's environment and public health.
The Department of Environmental Conservation's (DEC) own spill reports document existing regulations have failed to prevent or to require the clean up hundreds of natural gas and oil drilling problems involving fires, explosions, polluted drinking water wells, home evacuations and massive drilling wastewater releases. DEC must not issue new gas drilling permits until those regulatory concerns have been fully resolved. That is why the Supplemental GEIS review must be restarted.
The draft SGEIS totally fails to propose a safe method of managing natural gas drilling wastewater and hydrofracking fluid. It simply leaves that task to localities. Improper management of natural gas drilling wastewater has already caused massive toxic pollution impacts. The SGEIS must solve this disposal problem before new natural gas drilling permits are issued.
DEC is woefully understaffed to cope with existing natural gas drilling problems. Only 17 staff are available to regulate nearly 7,000 existing natural gas wells. New gas drilling permits must not be issued until the SGEIS solves this problem.
The SGEIS fails to address critical issues associated with strict clean up liability, natural gas spill reporting, private right of legal action, insurance coverage and unfunded local government mandates. All those concerns must be addressed prior to the issuance of new gas drilling permits.
We urge you to act immediately!
Sincerely, Elisabeth H
-
Dear Governor Patterson,
I implore you to withdraw the DEC Draft SGEIS on Horizontal Gas Drilling, High Volume Hyrofracturing and Production and declare a one year minimum continuation of the statewide moratorium on gas drilling and high volume hydrofracturing, until such time as the document can be rewritten to provide adequate protections to the environment and the citizens of the State. As presented, the DSGEIS fails to adequately address numerous aspects that would provide those protections.
Before any drilling and production may commence, you must direct the Commissioner of DEC to completely rewrite the DSGEIS and require that it includes and details:
Fully adequate environmental and community safeguards taking into account cumulative impacts of this type of drilling, hyrofracturing and gas production. There must be a clear plan for fully assessing and mitigating the cumulative impacts of gas drilling and extraction on water, air, land use and values, forests, plants, animals, people and community characterA clear plan for DEC inclusion and collaboration of local government and communities in reviewing all aspects of gas drilling and production including location and density of all drilling pads and bores, central storage and support facilities, compressor stations, pipelines, etc.
A ban gas well drilling in the floodplain
The final SGEIS must require that gas companies adhere to all requirements of Federal Clean Water and Air Legislation
A complete ban on the use of any known toxic chemicals in fracking fluids
A clear plan with specified limitations and community safeguards for any and all water withdrawals that protects and prevents depletion of local water sources, public and private
A clear plan, requirements and gas company liability for handling, storing, tracking, transporting and processing all waste including any drilling and fracking fluid materials, and all toxic chemicals, gases, minerals and radiation produced or released in the process, with clear protocols for each
A clear plan and requirements for fully protecting all aquifers, public and private drinking water sources and required pre drilling and ongoing test well monitoring at each well site and along all horizontal bores as well as pre and ongoing testing of any public or private water sources within one mile of well sites and bores.
Clearly specified gas company financial responsibility for all water source monitoring with DEC responsibility to conduct all monitoring or oversee independent contracting of it
A clear plan and requirements for preventing any and all releases of toxic gases into the air including gas company responsibility for collecting and appropriately processing any and all gases produced during all phases drilling, hydrofracturing and ongoing production as well as clearly specified gas company financial responsibility for all air quality monitoring with DEC responsibility to conduct all monitoring or oversee independent contracting of it
A clear plan for assessing and mitigating community impacts of all aspects of gas drilling and production
There must be a specific assessment of the impacts of related heavy truck and machinery traffic on local roads and bridges with pre drilling and ongoing assessments as well as clearly specified gas company liability for the costs of any and all needed repairs
There must be a specific assessment of the impacts and mitigation of all emmissions of trucks and related drilling and production macinery
All accidents related to gas drilling and production need to be regulated with clearly specified liability and mitigation requirements.
The DEC must promulgate accompanying regulations with appropriate rule making procedures covering all of the above, not simply suggest conditions. Any and all costs of implementing and monitoring DEC Regulations and requirements must be borne by the gas companies. There must be a clear DEC plan for adequate staffing and support for regulatory oversight and monitoring with gas company financial responsibility and bonding to ensure adequate oversight and monitoring over the lifetime of drilling, production, closure and ongoing monitoring.
No costs or unwanted responsibilities shall be passed to local government and communities.
Only when these provisions are included, can the DSGEIS on Horizontal Gas Drilling, High Volume Hyrofracturing and Production be considered as providing adequate environmental and community protections.
Respectfully,
Stephen D
-
Dear Governor Paterson.
Now that we are all learning more and more what hydrofracking wll bring with with
very heavy traffic on rural roads, storage ponds for mud, release of huge quantities
of carbon, disruption of community life, and possible contamination of well water
we are more and more appalled. I hope you will withdraw the 9/30/09 draft
Supplemental Environmental Impact Statement (dSGEIS) for Marcellus Shale Well
Permit Issuance for Horizontal Drilling and High-Volume Hydrofracking.Sincerely yours,
Willard Ticknor Daetsch, PhD
Professor Emeritus at Ithaca.College -
You rock. Sent an email with the governor's web form. Will send another when you forward email. Your "bullet points" for what to address were really helpful
Sue
PS Glad to hear signatures hit 4500. will keep working on it - we need 10,000!!
-
Governor Patterson,
I am writing to urge you to immediately withdraw the draft Supplemental GEIS because it is utterly inadequate to safeguard New York's environment and public health. Quite simply, if you don't act on this issue, you will not get my vote. But I hope that the issue itself will motivate you more than keeping your job.
We must stop throwing money at carbon-based energy and invest fully in renewable energy sources such as solar and wind. The people of this great state want a green and sustainable New York, not a continuation of the myopic policies that rape the planet for short-term profit and gain.
Please allow me to repeat some points below from concerned groups of citizens who are rallying in huge numbers to keep our state from disastrous and non-reversable consequences from hydrofracking:
The Department of Environmental Conservation's (DEC) own spill reports document existing regulations have failed to prevent or to require the clean up of hundreds of natural gas and oil drilling problems involving fires, explosions, polluted drinking water wells, home evacuations and massive drilling wastewater releases. DEC must not issue new gas drilling permits until those regulatory concerns have been fully resolved. That is why the Supplemental GEIS review must be restarted.
The draft SGEIS totally fails to propose a safe method of managing natural gas drilling wastewater and hydrofracking fluid. It simply leaves that task to localities. Improper management of natural gas drilling wastewater has already caused massive toxic pollution impacts. The SGEIS must solve this disposal problem before new natural gas drilling permits are issued.
DEC is woefully understaffed to cope with existing natural gas drilling problems. Only 17 staff are available to regulate nearly 7,000 existing natural gas wells. New gas drilling permits must not be issued until the SGEIS solves this problem.
The SGEIS fails to address critical issues associated with strict clean up liability, natural gas spill reporting, private right of legal action, insurance coverage and unfunded local government mandates. All those concerns must be addressed prior to the issuance of new gas drilling permits.
Please be a leader toward a green, sustainable New York!
With sincere concern and respect,
Andy W.
Ithaca, NY -
Governor Paterson must immediately withdraw the draft Supplemental GEIS because it is utterly inadequate to safeguard New York's environment and public health.
The Department of Environmental Conservation's (DEC) own spill reports document existing regulations have failed to prevent or to require the clean up of hundreds of natural gas and oil drilling problems involving fires, explosions, polluted drinking water wells, home evacuations and massive drilling wastewater releases. DEC must not issue new gas drilling permits until those regulatory concerns have been fully resolved. That is why the Supplemental GEIS review must be restarted.
The draft SGEIS totally fails to propose a safe method of managing natural gas drilling wastewater and hydrofracking fluid. It simply leaves that task to localities. Improper management of natural gas drilling wastewater has already caused massive toxic pollution impacts. The SGEIS must solve this disposal problem before new natural gas drilling permits are issued.
DEC is woefully understaffed to cope with existing natural gas drilling problems. Only 17 staff are available to regulate nearly 7,000 existing natural gas wells. New gas drilling permits must not be issued until the SGEIS solves this problem.
The SGEIS fails to address critical issues associated with strict clean up liability, natural gas spill reporting, private right of legal action, insurance coverage and unfunded local government mandates. All those concerns must be addressed prior to the issuance of new gas drilling permits.
Patty P.
Ithaca, NY -
Dear Walter,
Thanks for your public active stance on the bad gas news.
You wanted a bcc of letters to Gov Patt re. shale gas dSGEIS.
The webform at http://161.11.121.121/govemail worked fine for me just now. The webform isn't set up for ccs, but I'm sending you a copy of my recent message to Gov at his govemail form here via cut-and-paste in case you can still use it this way.This is text I put in the webform message space:
Please withdraw the draft SGEIS for gas well drilling! I have been studying it for weeks, and have sent comments to DEC, but can not imagine this flawed document being sufficiently revised to allow New Yorkers to feel safe with high-volume hydrofracturing operations until a much more environmentally responsible approach has made sure that the millions of tons of poisons involved in injection and flowback fluids at such wells don't continue to cause horribly irremediable pollution. I'm a member of the Town of Ithaca's Conservation Board, and a volunteer water quality monitor at Six Mile Creek, which is the City of Ithaca's public water supply. Hydrofracking anywhere in the watershed of Cayuga Lake would be a nightmare under the currently proposed well-permit arrangements. Instead of trying to patch up a bad text with comments, please get the DEC to realize that the draft SGEIS now proposed for public comment needs complete and thorough revision. Toss it out, and start over, with our state environment the priority, not the profitability of gas well drillers!
Feel free to use this online any way you find fit.
Yours,
James W. H. -
Dear Gov. Patterson:
I think the evidence against hydro-fracking is conclusive. The reports of spills, the evident carelessness of Cabot and dishonesty of Fortuna should by themselves make one very skeptical about the possibility of carrying on this drilling without unacceptably great risk to the environment.
I have been asked to write to you criticizing the SGEIS for its obvious inadequacies. I think this is unnecessary because the study of hydro-fracking by the New York City DEP makes it plain that regulation is not what is needed. Only an unconditional ban on hydro-fracking will protect our agriculture, our watersheds, our lives.
Sincerely yours,
Donald M. - Dear Governor Paterson
Please, for the sake of my health and safety and my financial security, withdraw the DEC's proposed Supplemental Generic Environmental Impact Statement.
As of today nearly 6,500 elected officials, environmental organizations and citizens have signed the coalition letter at Walter Hang's Toxics Targeting website asking you to withdraw the draft Supplemental Environmental Impact Statement (dSGEIS) for Marcellus Shale Well Horizontal Drilling and High-Volume Hydrofracking.
If the DEC has recorded 270 oil and gas spills as documented at toxicstargeting.com, uncontrolled releases causing fires, explosions, massive pollution releases, contaminated drinking water sources, home evacuations, tainted farmland and widespread threats to wetlands, streams, ponds, aquifers and other "sensitive receptors" how can the DEC represent itself as competent to effectively oversee the permitting and oversight of marcellus and other horizontal shale well drilling and hydrofracturing?
It is of utmost importance that the DEC resolve those regulatory shortcomings prior to issuing new drilling permits. Otherwise, our critical water sources and environment of this whole region could become irreparably contaminated.
A major problem with the dSGEIS is that the underlying law, ECL 23, calls for maximization of energy production. Instead that law should be rewritten to call for maximization of energy and environmental conservation and alternative methods of energy production in this era of global warming and worldwide shortage of potable water.
Since I live in a poor county much of the land around my area including my own farm is leased to the gas companies. One of the many disturbing things about this document is that if a gas company can cobble together a unit spacing of 640 acres they can put in 16 wells on a single pad and then they can put in infilling wells. That would be an environmental catastrophe for a particular locale and it would instantaneously change a farm or a forested area into an industrial site without any approval needed from the landowner.
In addition the document calls for a 5 acre frack pond with pipes feeding wastes from multiple wells to the pond from up to 4 miles away. The DEC calls that type of development a small footprint. I say it is a deadly wallop to a regions' environmental viability with the inevitable leaks from the well, the pipes, the frack pit and the thousands of trucks and other equipment that would be used for such an operation. This is a prescription for environmental disaster. If these kinds of things go through the DEC should rename itself the Department of Environmental Contamination.
The DEC Division of Mineral Resources should be restructured and renamed the Department of Energy Extraction and the original DEC should be returned to its original charge of Environmental Conservation. Energy and environmental conservation should take precedence over energy extraction. This dSGEIS has absolutely nothing to do with environmental conservation.
There are so many regulatory holes in this document that the industry can drive millions of their frack trucks through, waste billions of gallons of water and cause more contamination and pollution as it has done in Dimock, PA where in 9 sq miles 15 families' water has been contaminated, in Dallas/Ft Worth where air pollution has been doubled by gas well drilling and fracking, in Sublette Co, WY where a 28 mile benzene plume contaminates 88 water wells out of 220 examined.
The DEC has mythologized itself with self promotional propaganda as an agency that knows how to prevent gas drilling accidents. But they ignore all the accidents that have occurred in the state. In Chautaugua County alone the County Health Department found 17 water wells contaminated by gas drilling as shown by water tests in the last 3 decades. But reading the many complaints in their database, complaints such as greasy brown or black sediment in the water, smells like petroleum, gas well recently drilled 150 feet away, leads one to suspect that the water tests were not sophisticated enough and that probably up to 65 wells were contaminated by gas drilling in that one NYS county alone. These drinking water contaminations with negative water test results would not have been recorded by the DEC.
Stop this dSGEIS. In addtion to Walter Hang's coalition letter there is another petition calling for a statewide BAN ON SHALE GAS DRILLING that 78 organizations and nearly 3000 individuals have signed.
Rewrite the ECL 23 to reemphasize the pre eminence of environmental (and energy) conservation. Any energy extraction concerns should take a back seat to the preservation of our most precious natural resources and the life and health of our citizens as well as the rest of nature. I want my water and air and environment to be free from pollution, I want my land to continue to have value for me, my neighbors and the rest of nature.
Why have I been paying outrageous property taxes for decades, so that gas companies and the state can confiscate my property for gas drilling and environmental destruction?? This threat is outrageous. Stop this DEC dictatorship and the outrageously primitive and inadequate generic environmental impact statements. Return decision making to individual taxpayers, landowners, leaseholders, their neighbors and the community. Get the DEPARTMENT OF ENVIRONMENTAL CONSERVATION out of the gas drilling permitting business. They are making a mess of our land!
And while you're at it tax the bastards. NYS is one of only 3 states in the union that does not have a severence tax on gas drillers. Are you going to let the state go bankrupt because of some timidity over the issue of a heavy and well deserved tax on the gas drillers with a large proportion of the tax going to locales to cover the cost of road upkeep?
Sincerely yours,
Peter H
- I urge you to withdraw the draft Supplemental Environment Impact Statement (dSGEIS) for Marcellus Shale Horizontal Drilling and Hydrofracking. Unless you do, there will be serious harm done to the environment of the Marcellus Shale area.
Arthur R
- Governor Patterson,
Please find the courage to defeat any and all attempts to extract natural gas from the Marcellus Shale deposits in New York. Instead, help us to develop truly renewable energy resources such as wind and solar power.
As concerned citizens of New York, my husband and I are opposed to the degradation of our environment and water just so big companies can turn a profit.
Elaine H
- Dear Governor Paterson,
As a native New Yorker, Central NY business owner, father of 3 children, and nature lover, I urge you to withdraw the draft SGEIS and slow down the rush towards unsafe drilling. The history of the interface between the environmental movement and industrial power grabs consistenly shows a pattern of finding out too late that 'industry standard' practices turned out to be unsafe and motivated by profit and wealth alone. It is also well known that hindsight often reveals how business and government can pass the buck back and forth without either one taking genuine responsibility for the people and the land that politicians and governing bodies represent.
The DEC is just not ready for the scale of this development, especially happening way too fast. They are understaffed and not even able to handle simple, current ecological or environmental issues such as water quality and non-point source pollution.
It is also alarming to read comments and paraphrasings that suggest the DEC does not know as much as they need to know about hydrofracturing of bedrock because the gas companies are not divulging what chemicals they are using! Why is this allowed? Haven't we learned when to spot a red flag?
Everyone knows we need jobs, and just about anything that seems to spur the economy is easy to cast in a positive light. But in the long run, the last thing upstate NY needs is irrevocably contaminated drinking water, a short term gain for a long term nightmare, and the reckless destruction of our natural landscapes that make this region one of the most beautiful of any on Earth.
Please, please do the right thing and don't let powerful gas drilling companies walk all over us--we can't stop them without you.
Thanks,
Dan
-
Dear Governor Patterson -
I am writing in reference to hydrofracking in the Finger
Lakes area
of NYS. I live in Geneva and we have our environmental challenges
dealing with huge landfills on either side of our city. We're
facing
build-up of leachate in our water source, Seneca Lake, and anticipating
a fight for clean air if the Ontario County landfill is allowed to burn
garbage and trash upwind of us. I realize that alternative sources
of
power for our state and country is becoming critical, but we must look
at the whole picture. What good is it to save money on the one hand
only to face long term environmental and health issues that will empty
our personal and state wallets in the near and far future? Our
area
is
already carrying a burden for the State by providing a location for the
State's garbage. Please look at all the research that has been
done
by
so many competent people and block the gas companies from doing
long-term damage to our beautiful area. Thank you for your
attention.Nancy G
- Dear Governor Patterson,
I am writing you to beg that you withdraw the draft Supplemental Environmental Impact Statement (dSGEIS) for Marcellus Shale Horizontal Drilling and Hydrofracking. I have never been much of an activist, but the threat of fracking is literally hitting home for me. I do not want to see the land that I grew up on destroyed and raped by a company who grows fat off of the economic desperation of these times. It's not to late to say no. In the 25 years that I've spent on this earth, I have seen the twin towers destroyed, a classroom of students killed in Columbine and two friends die in car accidents. Out of all of these tradgeties, the unnecessary destruction of my home by an insatiable, ignorant company will be the most preventable and therefore, the most despicable. You have the power to do something. Please, please do the right thing.
Respectfully yours,
Miriam R.
- Governor Paterson,
I am asking you to immediately withdraw the draft Supplemental GEIS.
It is inadequate to safeguard New York's environment and public health.DEC spill reports document existing regulations have failed to prevent
or to require the clean up of hundreds of natural gas and oil drilling
problems involving fires, explosions, polluted drinking water wells,
home evacuations and massive drilling wastewater releases.Please, Governor: DEC must not issue new gas drilling permits until
those regulatory concerns have been fully resolved. That is why the
Supplemental GEIS review must be restarted.The draft SGEIS totally fails to propose a safe method of managing
natural gas drilling wastewater and hydrofracking fluid. It leaves
that task to localities. Improper management of natural gas drilling
wastewater has already caused massive toxic pollution impacts. The
SGEIS must solve this disposal problem before new natural gas drilling
permits are issued.DEC staff cannot cope with existing natural gas drilling problems.
Only 17 staff are available to regulate nearly 7,000 existing natural
gas wells. New gas drilling permits should not be issued until the
SGEIS solves this problem.The SGEIS fails to address critical issues associated with strict
clean up liability, natural gas spill reporting, private right of
legal action, insurance coverage and unfunded local government
mandates. All those concerns must be addressed prior to the issuance
of new gas drilling permits.Thank you,
Steven D and Joan Z
- Dear Governor Paterson,
I am writing you to urge you to withdraw the draft Supplemental GEIS
because in its current form it is completely inadequate to protect our
environment and our public health.Any development of our valuable natural resources must be done in such
a way that safeguards the common good of all New York State citizens.
Any steps to carry out natural gas drilling can only be done once
there are appropriate and implementable guidelines in place. The
current draft Supplemental GEIS does not provide the regulatory teeth
nor realistic mechanism for implementation.Too many unanswered questions about plans for disposal of enormous
quantities of toxic waste water, the nature of as yet undisclosed
chemicals to be used in the process, mechanisms for dealing with
accidents, impact on local communities, remain for New York State to
responsibility move forward at this stage.The withdrawal of the draft Supplemental GEIS is a critical first step
in a process that supports both the much needed economic development
of the state and the protection of our environment and our public
health.Please take this essential step on behalf of all New York State
citizens.Yours sincerely,
Abby C
- Dear Governor Patterson;
I want to urge you to withdraw the draft Supplemental GEIS regulating horizontal drilling for natural gas in the Marcellus Shale. The regulations as written are inadequate to protect water in our region from drawdown and/or contamination. We depend on ground water for our household and business use and for our agricultural economy. To "frack" one well requires 2 to 5 million gallons of water to be taken from our fresh water streams and aquifers and trucked in hundreds of trips over our country roads to the well site. There have been no studies in this area establishing how much water we have and whether our aquifers could maintain their integrity with the kind of drawdown proposed. In the Great Lakes Basin, the regulation and monitoring requirements of water withdrawals from streams and aquifers are not in place; the proposed "natural flow method" is neither practicable nor adequately tested. Nor is there a monitoring and inspection protocol required in our area. It is simply suggested in SGEIS that if the company operators doing the withdrawals follow the method, it could mitigate against cumulative water drawdown. But where is the data to support the efficacy of "the method"? And where is the commitment to safeguard water levels if there is no DEC monitoring and inspection required? The Delaware River Basin Commission and the Susquahanna River Basin Commission perform these responsibilities in those watersheds, but the handling of water withdrawals in the Great Lakes Basin is not well promulgated. The cumulative effects of under-researched and ill-monitored water withdrawals are a very serious issue for us in this SGEIS. There have been quite a few springs and summers in recent years when we experienced water shortages. Not to mention that water is still a commons and should not be gobbled up by corporate entities for their profit when the common good depends on this resource.
We also now have seen the devastating contamination of water (not to mention air) in incidents in other areas where high volume gas drilling with hydraulic fracturing is occurring. Most people have no idea how nasty many of the chemicals used are: carcinogens, mutagens, and endocrine disruptors, among others, benzene, toluene, ethylbenzene, and xylenes to name a few of the deadly petroleum distillates. No wonder the gas companies don't want to reveal the chemical components. It's insane to inject these things into the earth below us. When and where they will find their way into our lives we can't know. Maybe it won't be our lives, but those of our grandchildren. I haven't mentioned the fact that the Marcellus Shale is highly radioactive. When the fluids come back out of the ground, they are radioactive and must be treated as radioactive waste. New York doesn't have facilities to handle radioactive wastes. Forget about the problem of waste treatment plants not being able to handle the fluids; they will have to be trucked out of state. Where? Who will take so much radioactive fluid? The pipes they flow in become radioactive. The well workers should be trained to handle radioactive substances and should know that this is what they are dealing with. The SGEIS doesn't begin to adequately acknowledge the radioactivity of the flowback--even though some of the constituents are 1000X the safe level for human exposure. Rachel Carson must be rolling over in her grave and crying out a warning. We need to listen.
Contamination of our water will be damaging to our economy even beyond farming and business use. Who would choose to come here as a tourist to see our industrial landscape and gaze through the chemical haze, drink wines bred in a polluted environment, or taste our local farmers' market vegetables, which will probably no longer be technically organic. If word gets out that the area might be contaminated with radioactivity, people will stay away, and move away. Will people choose to bring up children here knowing the risks? Houses and land are already getting harder to sell when it is known that the lands around have gas leases on them. Banks have refused to give mortgages for this reason. What value does a house or farm retain if it loses its water?
We need to learn from contamination problems in other states--Texas, Wyoming, Colorado, and Pennsylvania--that accidents happen again and again, always unexpected and often unexplainable. We can't depend on promises of reliability of the technology to protect our water--and health. The risk to the residents and livelihoods of this area is too great. What benefit is it to have a few wealthy people in an area where the quality of their lives and the lives of others has been diminished. Some may be impoverished. If we must leave, or simply can't stand living here anymore, but can't sell our houses, we will leave with nothing, or much less than our investment over years should have provided.
Perhaps with more study, more advanced technology, and better ability to inspect and monitor, drilling the Marcellus Shale with some sort of fracking might be safe, but going ahead with permitting this activity in the near future is premature and unwise. The only next step is to withdraw the SGEIS and instruct the DEC to start over, taking the advice of the many experts who have weighed in on the necessary scope of the document, the studies that need to be done, and the new regulations and mitigations that must be in place--including inspection and monitoring.
Thank you very much for taking this important action. We and future generations will applaud this brave move and recognize the thoughtfulness and wisdom that went into the decision.
Sincerely,
Judith P
- Governor Paterson
Please immediately withdraw the draft Supplemental GEIS because it is utterly inadequate to safeguard New York's environment and public health.
The Department of Environmental Conservation's (DEC) own spill reports document existing regulations have failed to prevent or to require the clean up hundreds of natural gas and oil drilling problems involving fires, explosions, polluted drinking water wells, home evacuations and massive drilling wastewater releases. DEC must not issue new gas drilling permits until those regulatory concerns have been fully resolved. That is why the Supplemental GEIS review must be restarted.
The draft SGEIS totally fails to propose a safe method of managing natural gas drilling wastewater and hydrofracking fluid. It simply leaves that task to localities. Improper management of natural gas drilling wastewater has already caused massive toxic pollution impacts. The SGEIS must solve this disposal problem before new natural gas drilling permits are issued.
DEC is woefully understaffed to cope with existing natural gas drilling problems. Only 17 staff are available to regulate nearly 7,000 existing natural gas wells. New gas drilling permits must not be issued until the SGEIS solves this problem.
The SGEIS fails to address critical issues associated with strict clean up liability, natural gas spill reporting, private right of legal action, insurance coverage and unfunded local government mandates. All those concerns must be addressed prior to the issuance of new gas drilling permits.
thanks in advance for your prompt attention on this critical, urgent issue!
john h
- Dear Governor Patterson,
With all my heart, I urge you to withdraw the draft Supplemental Generic Environmental Impact State regarding drilling in the Marcellus Shale in New York State, public comments on which are due by the end of this month. The future of our state is at stake.
This should not be a supplemental GEIS as the nature of deep hydrofracturing drilling for the Marcellus gas formation requires an entirely new review based on this new, controversial technology that is much more disruptive to the environment than the conventional gas drilling which is covered by the 1992 GEIS which which this new document is supplementing.
The potential disastrous effects of the widespread use of hydrofracking in New York must be given a much harder look than the draft SGEIS is poised to take. This is a technology and level of industrial mining development that New York State DEC is not prepared to regulate properly at all. Allowing things to proceed as they are currently framed will result in an environmental, social, and political catastrophe.
PLEASE withdraw the dSGEIS and start over and do this thing right! Otherwise, the gas companies will trash our beautiful state!
Anthony I
- Dear Governor Patterson,
I ask that you immediately withdraw the draft Supplemental
GEIS because it is utterly inadequate to safeguard New York's
environment and public health. To support this request, I make the following points:1. The Department of Environmental Conservation's (DEC) own spill
reports document existing regulations have failed to prevent or to
require the clean up hundreds of natural gas and oil drilling problems
involving fires, explosions, polluted drinking water wells, home
evacuations and massive drilling wastewater releases. DEC must not
issue new gas drilling permits until those regulatory concerns have
been fully resolved. That is why the Supplemental GEIS review must be
restarted.
2. The draft SGEIS totally fails to propose a safe method of managing
natural gas drilling wastewater and hydrofracking fluid. It simply
leaves that task to localities. Improper management of natural gas
drilling wastewater has already caused massive toxic pollution impacts.
The SGEIS must solve this disposal problem before new natural gas
drilling permits are issued.
3. DEC is woefully understaffed to cope with existing natural gas
drilling problems. Only 17 staff are available to regulate nearly 7,000
existing natural gas wells. New gas drilling permits must not be issued
until the SGEIS solves this problem.
4. The SGEIS fails to address critical issues associated with strict
clean up liability, natural gas spill reporting, private right of legal
action, insurance coverage and unfunded local government mandates. All
those concerns must be addressed prior to the issuance of new gas
drilling permits.Thank you for your attention.Best wishes,
Elizabeth S - Dear Govenor Patterson,
I am writing to urge you to protect our New Yorkers' clean drinking water. Nothing is more important that maintaining the purity of our water. Don't let your legacy be one of environmental destruction and contaminated water. Please stop the Marcellus shale hydrofracking plan.
Thank you,
Sage
-
Dear Governor Patterson,
Evidence is mounting from experience in Pennsylvania with the hydrofracturing drilling, that Pennsylvania (and we believe New York) are ill-prepared to deal with the onslaught of drilling in the Marcellus Shale. The environmental disaster that is unfolding in Pennsylvania could also happen in New York State if drilling is permitted under the guidelines set forth in the draft Supplemental Environmental Impact Statement (dSGEIS) that the DEC has issued for comments on October 1, 2009. In a separate letter to the DEC, we along with others have provided constructive criticism of that document and the process that is proposed to insure that the drilling and energy companies carry out this exploration in an environmentally responsible manner. Governor Patterson, the basic issue, however, it that the DEC document is woefully inadequate and does not address the regulatory details with sufficient controls to insure that our environment will not be destroyed in the process of this exploitation. This flawed process proposal combined with the meager staff of the DEC (which was judged by a recent Cornell University study to be woefully inadequate) is a formula for environmental disaster perhaps even worse than is being experienced in Pennsylvania. The December 2009 issue of the Chesepeake Bay Journal documents some of the problems currently being experienced in that state (http://www.bayjournal.com/).
Governor Patterson, we urge you to direct the NYSDEC to withdraw the dSGEIS document and appoint an advisory committee to the DEC with the appropriate expertise to help guide the development of a set of environmentally responsible regulatory guidelines and process for managing the exploitation of the Marcellus Shale in New York State for its natural gas. The consequences of this exploitation are huge for the environmental and business future of New York State. Do not allow the present process to go forward and jeopardize our state's environmental future for the sake of getting at this natural gas a year or two early.
You are in a position to insure that this effort is carried out in an environmentally responsible manner. Have the dSGEIS redone!
Edwin and Roberta P
- Dear Governor Paterson,
I divide my time between Upstate New York and New York City, and have friends and allegiances in both places. From that perspective, I implore you to please withdraw the current draft supplemental GEIS.
Upstate New York needs jobs, income, development; downstate needs water, "natural" exurbs and both need to maintain control over corporate projects in cases where interests conflict.
Gas extraction must be done, but done right, so as to protect the state's waterways, watersheds and water supplies via careful and site-specific permitting, to deter rogue behavior effectively and swiftly and surely punish delinquents. The current sGEIS isn't designed to do that.
The Northeast is different from the West, and hydrofracing is different from conventional gas well drilling, things the current sGEIS does not reflect. Many issues of permitting and enforcement need to be re-examined, and many safeguards re-designed to reflect our state's tight budget.
Most importantly, drilling restrictions that benefit New York City at the expense of cash-strapped upstate communities should include compensation, so as to lessen the rift in our state between our rust belt and our money belt.
Respectfully,
Lynn P
- Hello again Governor Paterson
After all the latest voices weighing in (EPA, DEC union, numerous taxpayers, Congressman Hinchey, etc.) I sincerely hope you determine that we need much more time before the hydraulic fracturing starts in earnest in NY State. We have to ensure that it is safe and sustainable for all. We need you to see this, and act for more time, and ensure regulations will truly regulate this industry to the benefit of all.
There is NO rush.Thank you again
Yours sincerely,
Victoria A - Dear Governor Paterson,
I am writing to request that you call for a moratorium on hydraulic fracturing in upstate NY. At the very least, please extend the comment period of the dSGEIS for another year, so that the environmental impacts of this dangerous technique can be more fully evaluated. As a landowner surrounded by properties leased to gas companies, I am seriously considering leaving the state if gas drilling is allowed to happen in such an irresponsible manner.
Thank you for your time and consideration.Best,
Miller N
- Dear Governor Patterson,
It is critically important that you withdraw the draft Supplemental GEIS on Marcellus Shale Horizontal Hydro-fracturing. The proven risk of toxic water pollution from these activities extends far beyond the local areas in which the hydraulic fracturing and gas recovery takes place, putting the watershed serving 9 million people in New York city in serious danger of drinking water contamination, not to mention the severe local impacts.
Unfortunately, the draft environmental analysis underestimates the severity of the risk and the critical importance of strict regulatory enforcement required with this inherently risky and difficult-to-contain process. The history of gas producers' failure to contain and adequately process toxic wastewater, even on the small scale that currently exists, illustrates the severity of the toxic damage that can and will occur in the absence of strict regulation and enforcement. Such recognition is lacking in the current New York State analysis.
I ask in the strongest terms that you withdraw the draft Supplemental GEIS on Marcellus Shale Horizontal Hydro Fracturing, and allow an extended discussion and planning process to ensue that addresses the concerns of NY State's regional and municipal governments, many affected citizens, and now the EPA.
Best Regards,
Daniel S
- Dear Governor Paterson:
There is a growing body of comments on the dSGEIS on shale gas drilling that have been submitted by individuals and organizations possessing considerable scientific and technical expertise (e.g. the EPA and the Steward Council of Division 169 of the NYS Public Employees Federation) that demonstrate that the current draft SGEIS is incomplete and inadequate.
I am writing to ask you, again, to withdraw the current draft SGEIS and to continue the moratorium on shale gas drilling in NY state. It is imperative that NY protect all of its natural resources, as well as the health and safety of its residents.
Sincerely,
Mary S - Dear Governor Patterson:
I just read the EPA's suggestion concerning the DEC's dSGEIS. I hope you will direct the DEC to write a new set of regulations that address the EPA's concerns. This would be incredibly wise - endangering NYState's water supply would definitely be incredibly counter productive!
Sincerely,
Kate R - Dear Governor Patterson:
I am writing to request that you withdraw the Marcellus Shale draft SGEIS.
Sincerely,
Penny B
- Dear Governor Paterson:
I respectfully must urge you in the strongest terms to withdraw the dSGEIS for Marcellus Shale Well Permit Issuance for Horizontal Drilling and High Volume Fracking.
The dSGEIS is totally inadequate to address the many concerns that high volume fracking brings up: wastewater issues, water table issues (how much water will be taken and from what sources?), updating of current regulations to reflect the greatly increased scale of drilling, expanding the DEC staff to manage the huge increase in number of wells, liability issues, contamination issues - the list goes on and on.
Please withdraw the dSGEIS immediately and begin the process for a thorough and in depth analysis of the potential impact of high volume fracking. Clean fresh water is an incredibly valuable resource. Besides the heavy reliance of both upstate NY and NYC on watersheds for drinking water, many businesses depend on the abundant fresh water that is our treasure in NYS including organic and conventional farming, tourism and wineries. Additionally, many communities do not want 200 foot drilling platforms littering the countryside. Why not promote wind farms instead? Most communities would much rather look at a graceful wind turbine than a drilling platform, and there is no risk of contaminating the water table. We need economic development, but we need development that is sustainable. Many of the analyses of the revenue that the drilling will bring to NYS do not take into account long term costs, such as repair and maintenance of road beds and bridges fron the greatly increased truck traffic, increased CO2 emissions from the same truck traffic, clean up of spills, local mandates to police and inspect for environmental standards, insurance and liabilities etc etc.
Please do not risk having your legacy be that of the Governor who ruined NY's fresh water and natural beauty. Please withdraw the dSGEIS.
Thank you for acting to protect the citizens of this state.
Sincerely,
Susan T
- Dear Governor Paterson,
To me the most distressing issue with "fracking" in the Marcellus Shale is the enormous amount of wastewater that is produced. The gas in the Marcellus Shale is not about to disappear, and we should wait until a better method is developed to extract the gas. Please do what is obviously best for New York, and withdraw the draft SGEIS. This would show the kind of statesmanship that I and I believe many New Yorkers are desperately looking for.
Most respectfully,
Robbert V
- Dear Gov. Paterson,
I respectfully request that you withdraw the draft SGEIS. Let's make NY strong with clean energy initiatives that will take us into the future. Poisoning our air and water will not be good for the State. Neither will the ugly landscapes that will take over the natural beauty that is the Finger Lakes. Just look to Penn to see the future if the hydrofracking is initiated.
Thank you for all that you do.
Best wishes for a healthy and blessed new year.Esther H
-
Dear Governor Patterson,
Please withdraw the 9/30/09 draft Supplemental Environmental Impact Statement (dSGEIS) for Marcellus Shale Well Permit Issuance for Horizontal Drilling and High-Volume Hydrofracking. It is a seriously flawed document. Furthermore, we are appalled that corporations are being exempted from environmental safeguards enacted to protect us. How can any reasonable person justify this?
Thank you,
Joel W - Dear Governor Paterson:
I am writing to urge you to withdraw the draft Supplemental GEIS. It is not inadequate to safeguard New York's environment and public health. I live in an area that will be directly affected. Not only my own livelihood will be affected but many people depending on the affordable housing I provide will be displaced if wells are contaminated. Further, my daughter is a volunteer firefighter and would be a first responder to fires, explosions or any other disasters related to drilling events, so I am extremely concerned about the impact on local emergency organizations. This includes not only issues related to their access to accurate information to ensure appropriate and safe handling of toxic chemicals used in the drilling process and generated as byproducts, but also the financial burden on small stations and their training and capacity to handle events. There are serious public safety issues that need to be addressed.
The Department of Environmental Conservation's (DEC) own spill reports document existing regulations have failed to prevent or to require the clean up of hundreds of natural gas and oil drilling problems involving fires, explosions, polluted drinking water wells, home evacuations and massive drilling wastewater releases. DEC must not issue new gas drilling permits until those regulatory concerns have been fully resolved and their impact of municipalities. That is why the Supplemental GEIS review must be restarted.
The draft SGEIS totally fails to propose a safe method of managing natural gas drilling wastewater and hydrofracking fluid. It simply leaves that task to localities. Improper management of natural gas drilling wastewater has already caused massive toxic pollution impacts. The SGEIS must solve this disposal problem before new natural gas drilling permits are issued.
DEC is seriously understaffed to cope with existing natural gas drilling problems. Only 17 staff are available to regulate nearly 7,000 existing natural gas wells. New gas drilling permits must not be issued until the SGEIS solves this problem.
The SGEIS fails to address critical issues associated with strict clean up liability, natural gas spill reporting, private right of legal action, insurance coverage and unfunded local government mandates. All those concerns must be addressed prior to the issuance of new gas drilling permits.
The US needs to focus on sustainable alternatives to fossil fuel energy. This approach is neither sustainable for people or the environment. The large profits to be garnered by a few powerful corporations and the small number of jobs they create should not take precedence over protection of the state's natural resources such as water. The economic burden foisted onto communities by the environmental damage and loss of tax revenues from devalued properties will only result in driving upstate communities into a deeper depression. Most people who make money from leases will in all likelihood spend their money elsewhere and even leave the state to rebuild in another part of the US that isn't ruined scenically and environmentally.
Thank you for this opportunity to express my concerns. Olivia V
- Dear Governor Paterson, 12/07/2009
I am writing to ask you to immediately withdraw the draft Supplemental GEIS regarding horizontal gas drilling in the Marcellus Shale. The document is utterly inadequate to safeguard New York's environment and public health. I understand that we have some serious budget shortfalls to figure out but please don’t make gas drilling the way to close the gaps. I have a degree in Environmental Studies and I know from reading thousands of case studies that this is not a good idea. Please don’t risk making upstate New York another environmental disaster case study.
Would you sign a gas lease in YOUR backyard knowing that you could end up with radium, benzene, toulene, and who knows how many other toxic chemicals in your drinking and bathing water? The fact that legislation has been passed to protect the New York City watershed makes this a question of ethics. If the this gas drilling is too dangerous to pursue in the watershed of some New Yorkers, then it is too dangerous for all New Yorkers. Anything else is an environmental injustice.
The Department of Environmental Conservation's (DEC) own spill reports document existing regulations have failed to prevent or to require the clean up of hundreds of natural gas and oil drilling problems involving fires, explosions, polluted drinking water wells, home evacuations and massive drilling wastewater releases. DEC must not issue new gas drilling permits until those regulatory concerns have been fully resolved. This is not a risk worth taking. In upstate New York, most of us rely on wells as our only source of drinking water. The SGEIS recommends only using water from drinking wells near gas wells as a last resort. These wells are currently our only resort.
The draft SGEIS totally fails to propose a safe method of managing natural gas drilling wastewater and hydrofracking fluid. It simply leaves that task to localities. This just shifts state financial woes onto localities. Improper management of natural gas drilling wastewater has already caused massive toxic pollution impacts. The SGEIS must solve this disposal problem before new natural gas drilling permits are issued.
DEC is woefully understaffed to cope with existing natural gas drilling problems. Only 17 staff are available to regulate nearly 7,000 existing natural gas wells. New gas drilling permits must not be issued until the SGEIS solves this problem.
The SGEIS fails to address critical issues associated with strict clean up liability, natural gas spill reporting, private right of legal action, insurance coverage and unfunded local government mandates. All those concerns must be addressed prior to the issuance of new gas drilling permits.
As your constituent and a highly concerned citizen, I urge you please to think very hard about this and to do to anything you can in your power as our elected leader to prevent the many harmful impacts off horizantal gas drilling from happening in our state.
Sincerely,
Anna C
-
Dear Governor Patterson,
I am a homeowner and taxpayer living in Brooktondale, NY. My husband and I bought a home 8 years ago alongside Six Mile Creek, which also is the main source of water for the town of Ithaca. We love living here and hope to continue raising our two daughters in our modest home. With the economic downturn and rising cost of living it gets harder and harder to provide for our family, but we have roots here and would like stay in New York.
More importantly, the reason I'm writing you is because recently I received a letter from my Town Board asking for information on my property and well depth in relation to the possibility of allowing natural gas companies to lease land for hydrofracturing. It was then that I realized that the possibility of hydrofracturing is at our doorstep. I'm opposed to hydrofracturing because of the environmental impacts, but my primary concern now is because we live in a rural area and the entire community gets their water from wells. I'm worried my neighbors who have agreed to lease their land will allow these companies to set up a site near my home, creating not only a visible eyesore, but generating constant noise and potential for toxic spills. Our town roads are not equipped to deal with the traffic and heavy trucks necessary for this process. Mostly I fear that the place we call "home" and lovingly raise our children will be potentially become devalued and our water source undrinkable.
I as a constituent, I respectfully ask that you withdraw the draft Supplemental GEIS because it does not provide adequate safeguards for our state's environment and public health. I am aware that the Department of Environmental Conservation's (DEC) own spill reports document existing regulations have failed to prevent or to require the clean up hundreds of natural gas and oil drilling problems involving fires, explosions, polluted drinking water wells, home evacuations and massive drilling wastewater releases. DEC must not issue new gas drilling permits until those regulatory concerns have been fully resolved.
In addition, the draft SGEIS does not propose a safe method of managing natural gas drilling wastewater and hydrofracking fluid. It simply leaves that task to localities. This is not possible in our small town. Improper management of natural gas drilling wastewater has already caused massive toxic pollution impacts. The SGEIS must solve this disposal problem before new natural gas drilling permits are issued.
Furthermore, the DEC is understaffed to cope with existing natural gas drilling problems. Only 17 staff are available to regulate nearly 7,000 existing natural gas wells. New gas drilling permits must not be issued until the SGEIS solves this problem.
For the reasons stated above, and the fact that the SGEIS fails to address critical issues associated with strict clean up liability, natural gas spill reporting, private right of legal action, insurance coverage and unfunded local government mandates. All those concerns must be addressed prior to the issuance of new gas drilling permits.
I thank you for your time and consideration.
Respectfully,
Margaret C.
- Dear Governor Patterson,
I am writing you to ask you to withdraw the Department of
Environmental Conservation's (DEC) draft Supplemental GEIS because it
is inadequate to safeguard New York's environment and public health.The DEC's own spill reports document that the existing regulations
have failed to prevent or to require the clean up of hundreds of
natural gas and oil drilling problems involving fires, explosions,
polluted drinking water wells, home evacuations, and drilling
wastewater releases, including radioactive brine. The DEC must not
issue any new gas drilling permits until those regulatory concerns
have been fully resolved. That is why the Supplemental GEIS review
must be restarted with a completely new GEIS after the Federal EPA has
completed their study of hydrofracking.The draft SGEIS fails to propose a safe method of managing natural gas
drilling wastewater, including radioactive brine and hydrofracking
fluid. It simply leaves that task to localities, and doesn't give
local governments the power and resources to do the task adequately.
Improper management of natural gas drilling wastewater has already
caused massive toxic pollution impacts. One only has to look at the
many new problems in Pennsylvania for even more examples beyond those
already documented by the DED in New York. The SGEIS must solve this
disposal problem before any new natural gas drilling permits are issued.The DEC is woefully understaffed to cope with existing natural gas
drilling problems, much less any proposed new drilling. Only 17 staff
are available to regulate nearly 7,000 existing natural gas wells. No
new gas drilling permits should be issued until the SGEIS solves this
problem. The DEC must have sufficient staff, in advance of any new
permits, empowered to properly oversee and regulate the process.The SGEIS fails to address critical issues associated with strict
clean up liability, natural gas spill reporting, private right of
legal action, insurance coverage, and unfunded local government
mandates. All those concerns must be addressed prior to the issuance
of any new gas drilling permits.You have a duty to protect New York State's natural resources and
public health. This is why the draft SGEIS must be withdrawn, and a
proper new GEIS written that protects us all. In the long run, upstate
New York's clean water will more valuable than the natural gas.Sincerely,
Taylor P
-
Dear Governor Paterson,
I'd like to respectfully request that you withdraw the draft Supplemental GEIS in the interest of New York's environment and public health.
The Department of Environmental Conservation's (DEC) own spill reports document existing regulations have failed to prevent or to require the clean up of hundreds of natural gas and oil drilling problems involving fires, explosions, polluted drinking water wells, home evacuations and massive drilling wastewater releases. DEC must not issue new gas drilling permits until those regulatory concerns have been fully resolved. That is why the Supplemental GEIS review must be restarted.
The draft SGEIS totally fails to propose a safe method of managing natural gas drilling wastewater and hydrofracking fluid. It simply leaves that task to localities. Improper management of natural gas drilling wastewater has already caused massive toxic pollution impacts. The SGEIS must solve this disposal problem before new natural gas drilling permits are issued.
DEC is woefully understaffed to cope with existing natural gas drilling problems. Only 17 staff are available to regulate nearly 7,000 existing natural gas wells. New gas drilling permits must not be issued until the SGEIS solves this problem.
The SGEIS fails to address critical issues associated with strict clean up liability, natural gas spill reporting, private right of legal action, insurance coverage and unfunded local government mandates. All those concerns must be addressed prior to the issuance of new gas drilling permits.
As a physician in this state, I have very serious concerns about the short and long-term health risks of hydrofracking to the air, water, and citizens of this state.
Governor Paterson, it is your duty to protect New York's natural resources and public health. That is why the draft SGEIS must be withdrawn.
Thank you.
Kristen N., M.D.
-
Gear Governor Patterson,
I hope you will heed the call of so many New Yorkers who are
concerned about the lack of oversight for the taking of minerals from
our state, in this case, the natural gas. We have seen results from
this "fracking" process in other states, namely Colorado, Texas and
Pennsylvania and it is not pretty. the main concern is that there is
really very little that the communities affected by the hydro
fracking process can do if there is a spill or the water table is
polluted. The mining companies seem to have all the rights and the
landowners not. And these are companies who have enjoyed profits of
billions of dollars recently, still get billions in government
subsidies and are making ungodly amounts of money for their CEOs.
Surely they could go about the mining/drilling process in a way that
uses some of that profit to guarantee the safety of the environment
in which they work. They seem reluctant to do so. You must force them
to do the right thing.Please tighten up NY state's rights so these corporations can be held
responsible before the drilling goes thru. And if it's such a
dangerous process, then let's forgo the pleasure of ruining our water
tables and begin in earnest the switch to alternative energy sources.
The nicest thing about our part of the world is that it rains here
and we have wonderful lakes and streams to enjoy because of this.
Let us work hard to retain the beauty of our area so that our
grandchildren and their children can also partake of the bounties of
the northeast.Thanks for your attention to this important matter. And good luck
fighting them.Tommy B.
-
Dear Governor Paterson,
I am writing to thank you for the extraordinary service you have given amidst the challenges of your term and to respectfully urge you to withdraw the draft Supplemental Environmental Impact Statement (dSGEIS) for Marcellus Shale Horizontal Drilling and Hydrofracking before leaving office. Such an action would truly be a lasting gift to the lives and land under your care during this tremulous time in climate governance.
Though I am not an expert, it hardly seems a necessity when trying to imagine the impact of the 200+ proposed fracking sites upon the fragile, already deteriorated ecosystems nourished by our state's unique watershed above the Marcellus Shale -
- Each site requiring 5 acres of cleared surface land,
- Each well forcing stone-melting chemicals 1000s of feet into the earth,
- All requiring extraordinary energy from already taxed utilities to pump & mine.With the little bit of reading I've done about human consumption and pollution of our planet's water supply, again it is a brief fast forward to imagine scenarios like those already well-documented in Wisconsin, Michigan, Maine and even the Cochabamban water wars playing themselves out within New York's borders - where companies like Nestle and Coca-Cola supplant Bechtel.
Operating with the awareness that, globally, humans currently consume 33% more water each year than our aggregate planetary aquifers can replenish, why would our state allow any significant threat to a resource that will soon hold an exponentially increased value? And further understanding that, locally, the toxic brew already disbursed amidst New York's existing water system is composed of more than 100 identifiable pharmaceutical, agribusiness and petro-chemical industry carcinogens, it is my deepest hope that you will save countless millions of New York's people, flora and fauna from the certain devastation of hydraulic fracturing and subsequent gas extraction in the Marcellus.
The cumulative and permanent costs of drilling for "profit" are incalculable. The public benefit and personal honor earned by those preserving the natural capital of this state's fresh, unfiltered water are truly priceless.
Please withdraw the draft and let your record of office in New York state reflect a bold defense of this borderless, elemental gift - plentiful, fresh water.
Thank You and Sincerest Regards,
Janna O. -
Governor Paterson,
How are you? I am a 26 year old upstate New York native currently living in Alaska. I returned home for the holidays and was made more aware of the gas drilling. I envisioned what NYS would be like during and after more drilling, it was a living nightmare. Being an avid outdoorsman, I will do everything in my power to preserve the quality of life and natural beauty of New York and eastern watersheds. There is no "responsible" way to drill for gas and the amount procured if more drilling occurs is certainly not worth its devastating, irreversable environmental effects. SGEIS fails to be responsible for almost everything they do, they've left the DEC and localities swamped in all sorts of toxic mess. The DEC will certainly not be able to keep up with further drilling and that will be the end of NY's natural allure. Aren't we supposed to be going green? Lets keep the gas in the ground, please. I'm urging you to please withdraw the draft!
This all reminds me of the Pebble Mine here in Alaska, we would obviously never let that happen.
Thank you,
Jeffrey F
- Dear Governor,
Our fresh water supplies are finite- please demand that gas drilling operations adhere to the provisions of the Clean Water Act and the Clean Air Act.Best wishes,
--
Patrick S. - Dear Governor Paterson,
I am writing to express my great horror at the prospect of horizontal drilling in the Marcellus Shale under the "control" of the text of the Draft Supplemental Generic Environmental Impact Statement (dSGEIS), dated September 30, 2009. The hydraulic-fracturing techniques required for this type of extraction go way beyond any drilling that has been done before in New York. These techniques require greater depth, wider reach through often-fractured and fissured shale layers, huge volumes of water, chemicals to make the water "slick" (and toxic), as well as far more energy consumed and many more harmful by-products created.
While I have worked closely with many members of the NYS DEC in their on-going investigations into the toxins in and under Ithaca's South Hill, and I hold these public servants in high regard, I know they are only human in their capabilities. They cannot clone themselves, nor drastically increase staff levels which are already too low for the many tasks now on their lists. The notion that they could or should supervise new explorations of the types suggested is simply absurd. The idea that they can simply delegate these tasks to County-level officials, already over-taxed under budget pressures, is similarly unthinkable.
The dSGEIS fails to detail the wide and comprehensive scope of efforts which would be needed to address and correct the known drilling-contaminated sites we already have, and fails as well to provide solutions for the new types of problems of far-greater magnitude, which will be at the core of the "hydro-fracking" efforts.
While the possible prospect of financial royalties is appealing, the very real prospects of lasting damage to our roads, open lands, air, and water must carry more weight. Beyond tourism around the Finger Lakes, we have many heavily water-dependent industries which bring us wealth now: dairy, produce farming, wine production, and maple syrup, to name just a few. We all count on clean local water for drinking. We need clean air to breathe and toxin-free land for our homes, schools, and recreation areas.
The dSGEIS poses remedies that are way too small in scale - set-back distances in hundreds of feet from operations that may extend underground for thousands. The lack of clear directives for the handling of waste-water from these operations has already allowed the nearby Cayuga Heights treatment facility to discharge largely-untreated toxins into our water supply. The many lessons of problems and disasters just over the state line in Dimock, PA, show that this "technology" is not yet ready for serious and SAFE implementation.
PLEASE WITHDRAW THE dSGEIS. Truly, we CANNOT afford the "riches" suggested by hydro-fracking. We CANNOT afford the damages that will inevitably result from lax supervision of such huge insults to our environment.
Thank you for your consideration.
Ken D
-
Governor,
Please educate yourself on the serious toxic outcomes that will ocur of you allow companies to do Horizontal Drilling and Hydrofracking.This is underconsideration throughout New York, but we are very concerned with the Marcellus Shale area and the Finger Lakes.
Please do not have the destroying of the beautiful Finger Lakes and the NY state water supply on your watch or those that follow you.
We can find other ways to develop our economy without raping and ruining our natural resources.
Regards,
Mary K -
Dear Governor Paterson:
I strongly urge you to immediately withdraw the draft Supplemental
GEIS because :1. It is utterly inadequate to safeguard New York's environment and
public health.2. The Department of Environmental Conservation's (DEC) own spill
reports document that existing regulations have failed to prevent or
to require the clean up hundreds of natural gas and oil drilling
problems involving fires, explosions, polluted drinking water wells,
home evacuations and massive drilling wastewater releases. DEC must
not issue new gas drilling permits until those regulatory concerns
have been fully resolved. That is why the Supplemental GEIS review
must be restarted.3. The draft SGEIS totally fails to propose a safe method of managing
natural gas drilling wastewater and hydrofracking fluid. It simply
leaves that task to localities. Improper management of natural gas
drilling wastewater has already caused massive toxic pollution
impacts. The SGEIS must solve this disposal problem before new natural
gas drilling permits are issued.4. DEC is woefully understaffed to cope with existing natural gas
drilling problems. Only 17 staff are available to regulate nearly
7,000 existing natural gas wells. New gas drilling permits must not be
issued until the SGEIS solves this problem.5. The SGEIS fails to address critical issues associated with strict
clean up liability, natural gas spill reporting, private right of
legal action, insurance coverage and unfunded local government
mandates. All those concerns must be addressed prior to the issuance
of new gas drilling permits.Yours sincerely,
Doug R
-
Dear Governor Patterson,
I ask that you immediately withdraw the draft Supplemental GEIS because
it is utterly inadequate to safeguard New York's environment and public
health. I offer the following points:
* The Department of Environmental Conservation's (DEC) own spill
reports document existing regulations have failed to prevent or to
require the clean up hundreds of natural gas and oil drilling problems
involving fires, explosions, polluted drinking water wells, home
evacuations and massive drilling wastewater releases. DEC must not issue
new gas drilling permits until those regulatory concerns have been fully
resolved. That is why the Supplemental GEIS review must be restarted.
* The draft SGEIS totally fails to propose a safe method of managing natural gas drilling wastewater and hydrofracking fluid. It simply leaves
that task to localities. Improper management of natural gas drilling
wastewater has already caused massive toxic pollution impacts. The SGEIS
must solve this disposal problem before new natural gas drilling permits
are issued.
* DEC is woefully understaffed to cope with existing natural gas
drilling problems. Only 17 staff are available to regulate nearly 7,000
existing natural gas wells. New gas drilling permits must not be issued
until the SGEIS solves this problem.
* The SGEIS fails to address critical issues associated with
strict clean up liability, natural gas spill reporting, private right of
legal action, insurance coverage and unfunded local government mandates.
All those concerns must be addressed prior to the issuance of new gas
drilling permits. In your role as steward of New York State, it is your responsibility
to prevent development such as this.Best wishes,
Elizabeth S - Dear Governor,
I would like to call upon you to scrap the Supplemental Environmental Impact Statement (dSGEIS) for Marcellus Shale Horizontal Drilling and Hydrofracking.
After reading much of the relevant literature, I believe that our drinking water is not sufficiently protected by the dSGEIS. As a home owner with a well, I fear that our ground water will be contaminated. The DEC currently does not have enough personnel to inspect gas drilling well sites. I fear accidents, contamination, traffic, and the destruction of our natural environment and rural way of life.
On another note, I believe that hydrofracking would be particularly harmful to our area of the Finger Lakes, and to my employer, Cornell University. Cornell is the regional economic powerhouse in Tompkins County. We are rich in intellectual and natural resources. Large scale gas drilling in Tompkins county may dissuade parents from sending their children to Cornell, it may cause faculty to decide to take jobs elsewhere, and overall degrade the high standards we have developed here at Cornell for academic excellence. I also fear that the most educated and productive of our citizens will leave Tompkins County if drilling under the dSGEIS takes place.
I believe that gas drilling should be placed under a moratorium until proper studies can be done. I also believe that gas companies should abide by the Clean Water Act. To give one example: my house is in the Six Mile Creek water shed. I can't build any structures on my property because of the Clean Water Act. However, a gas company can come and drill adjacent to the creek, potentially polluting the drinking water of 60,000 people. This is supremely unjust. With all due respect, I hope New York State takes prudent steps to insure our health, safety and way of life.
Sincerely,
Eric M
-
Dear Governor Patterson,
I am writing in support of withdrawing the 9/30/09 draft Supplemental Environmental Impact Statement (dSGEIS) for Marcellus Shale Well Permit Issuance for Horizontal Drilling and High-Volume Hydrofracking. The current permit is inadequate to safeguard public health and the environment.
The Department of Environmental Conservation's (DEC) spill reports document hundreds of natural gas and oil drilling problems involving fires, explosions, polluted wells of drinking water , and massive drilling wastewater, which existing regulations have failed to prevent and/or provide adequate clean up for . Furthermore, they are critically understaffed to cope with existing natural gas drilling problems since only 17 staff are available to regulate nearly 7,000 existing natural gas wells.
New gas drilling permits must be delayed or rescinded until regulatory concerns have been fully resolved and the supplemental GEIS review must be restarted so that SGEIS can propose a safe method of disposing of natural gas drilling wastewater and hydrofracking fluid, rather than rely on individual localities. Their plan must also address critical issues associated with strict clean up liability, natural gas spill reporting, private right of legal action, insurance coverage, and unfunded local government mandates. All these concerns must be addressed before new gas drilling permits can be responsibly issued.Respectfully,
Mia L., MS Ed.
- Sir: My family andI live on 130 acres of beautiful land in Tioga County. I have been a resident of New York State for all of my 55 years. I am extremely proud of the efforts at conservation and wilderness protection in New York state over the years,however, to allow this hydro-fracturing to go on---without oversite from the EPA,free of the rules of the clean air and water act is an outrage. To be forcing a landowner to allow companies to inject polluted river water and chemicals under our farm against our will is unethical.
NY state allowing companies to extract millions of gallons of water from our already compromised streams and rivers is moronic.Why is there such an effort to protect nycity's watershed but when it comes to those upstate ,not at all? Our water is by far our most precious resource and our decisions should revolve around that. Furthermore the waste generated(salinity and radioactivity and high metal concentrations) cannot be treated safely.
The amount of damage to the roads and the air will be extensive. The DEC is not at all equipped to handle these issues nor will they be with the state government cutting back services. There is also very weak ,if any,legal protection for damages done---some which might take many years to determine.At the very least we should be able to determine what happens under our land.Sir.this is happening on your watch.You have a ethical/moral responsibilty to protect the residents of new york state and their offspring..You also have the opportunity to protect our vital natural resources from exploitation.Please reconsider and stop this madness. Remember how the Romans were so proud of their lead plumbing system?
If you do help stop this I will actively campaign for your re-election. That is a promise.
sincerely,
Jim V - Dear Governor Patterson:
I am writing to urge you to withdraw the 9/30/09 draft Supplemental Environmental Impact Statement (dSGEIS) for Marcellus Shale Well Permit Issuance for Horizontal Drilling and High-Volume Hydrofracking. It is utterly inadequate to safeguard New York's environment and public health.
The Department of Environmental Conservation's (DEC) own spill reports document existing regulations have failed to prevent or to require the clean up hundreds of natural gas and oil drilling problems involving fires, explosions, polluted drinking water wells, home evacuations and massive drilling wastewater releases. DEC must not issue new gas drilling permits until those regulatory concerns have been fully resolved. That is why the Supplemental GEIS review must be restarted.
The draft SGEIS totally fails to propose a safe method of managing natural gas drilling wastewater and hydrofracking fluid. It simply leaves that task to localities. Improper management of natural gas drilling wastewater has already caused massive toxic pollution impacts. The SGEIS must solve this disposal problem before new natural gas drilling permits are issued.
DEC is woefully understaffed to cope with existing natural gas drilling problems. Only 17 staff are available to regulate nearly 7,000 existing natural gas wells. New gas drilling permits must not be issued until the SGEIS solves this problem.
The SGEIS fails to address critical issues associated with strict clean up liability, natural gas spill reporting, private right of legal action, insurance coverage and unfunded local government mandates. All those concerns must be addressed prior to the issuance of new gas drilling permits.
It is your duty to protect our state's irreplaceable natural resources.
Sincerely,
Donald B
- Congressman Hinchey,
Please, I urge you to sign Walter Hang's coalition letter requesting Governor Paterson to withdraw the dSGEIS.
http://toxicstargeting.com/MarcellusShale/coalition_letter
New York State has the opportunity to learn of the ill effects of poorly regulated natural gas drilling that is currently happening in Pennsylvania and other states.
Please sign the above letter to urge Governor Paterson to withdraw the dSGEIS so that we may insure the safety of our public health, natural resources and the environment.Thank you,
Terezka K
- Dear Governor Paterson,
You have the duty to protect New York's natural resources and public health. The draft Supplemental GEIS is utterly inadequate to safeguard New York's environment and public health. I join with many others and call on you to use your authority to withdraw it now.
1. The Department of Environmental Conservation's (DEC) own spill reports document existing regulations have failed to prevent or to require the clean up hundreds of natural gas and oil drilling problems involving fires, explosions, polluted drinking water wells, home evacuations and massive drilling wastewater releases. DEC must not issue new gas drilling permits until those regulatory concerns have been fully resolved. That is why the Supplemental GEIS review must be restarted.
2. The draft SGEIS totally fails to propose a safe method of managing natural gas drilling wastewater and hydrofracking fluid. It simply leaves that task to localities. Improper management of natural gas drilling wastewater has already caused massive toxic pollution impacts. The SGEIS must solve this disposal problem before new natural gas drilling permits are issued.
3. DEC is woefully understaffed to cope with existing natural gas drilling problems. Only 17 staff are available to regulate nearly 7,000 existing natural gas wells. New gas drilling permits must not be issued until the SGEIS solves this problem.
4. The SGEIS fails to address critical issues associated with strict clean up liability, natural gas spill reporting, private right of legal action, insurance coverage and unfunded local government mandates. All those concerns must be addressed prior to the issuance of new gas drilling permits.While the short term profits may seem attractive to local homeowners and the state, allowing massive, under-regulated gas drilling will lead to economic and environmental devastation of our region.
Our family urges you to put the brakes on this effort and invest seriously in alternative energy sources that do not put our health and the planet at risk. I urge you to use your power as Governor to protect the land, water, and people of New York State.
Sincerely,
Brenda M
- Hello Dan,
I'm writing to encourage you and Congressman Hinchey to help withdraw the draft Supplemental Environmental Impact Statement (dSGEIS) for Marcellus Shale Horizontal Drilling and Hydrofracking.
We currently rely on California and the southwest to provide much of our produce. However California's water tables are being depleted at an alarming rate (see attached). We need to protect our groundwater now more than ever as we will need to grow more of our own food here in New York in the future than we do today.
Thank you for your consideration.
Regards,
George F
- Dear Governor Paterson,
I'm writing to encourage you to help withdraw the draft Supplemental Environmental Impact Statement (dSGEIS) for Marcellus Shale Horizontal Drilling and Hydrofracking.
We currently rely on California and the southwest to provide much of our produce. However California's water tables are being depleted at an alarming rate (see attached). We need to protect our groundwater now more than ever as we will need to grow more of our own food here in New York in the future than we do today.
Thank you for your consideration.
Regards,
George F
- Hi Dan,
I hope you are well.
I’m writing this note as a constituent and supporter of Congressman Hinchey.
I’m sure you’re aware of the campaign to get NY Governor Paterson to withdraw the draft Supplemental Generic Environmental Impact Statement (SGEIS) for potential natural gas drilling activities in the Marcellus Shale formation. There’s a lot of information about it in the email included below.
Apparently Congressman Hinchey has not signed the coalition letter. Given his role as a New York congressman and his longstanding advocacy of environmental issues it seems natural for him not only to sign the letter but to take a leadership role on this issue.
Is there a reason he hasn’t signed and isn’t taking a leadership role?
I’d like to see Congressman Hinchey step up to this, and if there is some reason he won’t or can’t I’d like to understand why not.
Thanks for your help with this!
Best regards and season’s greetings,
Mark
Mark B
- Dear Governor Patterson,
I ask that you immediately withdraw the draft Supplemental GEIS because it is utterly inadequate to safeguard New York's environment and public health. I offer the following points:
* The Department of Environmental Conservation's (DEC) own spill reports document existing regulations have failed to prevent or to require the clean up hundreds of natural gas and oil drilling problems involving fires, explosions, polluted drinking water wells, home evacuations and massive drilling wastewater releases. DEC must not issue new gas drilling permits until those regulatory concerns have been fully resolved. That is why the Supplemental GEIS review must be restarted.
* The draft SGEIS totally fails to propose a safe method of managing natural gas drilling wastewater and hydrofracking fluid. It simply leaves that task to localities. Improper management of natural gas drilling wastewater has already caused massive toxic pollution impacts. The SGEIS must solve this disposal problem before new natural gas drilling permits are issued.
* DEC is woefully understaffed to cope with existing natural gas drilling problems. Only 17 staff are available to regulate nearly 7,000 existing natural gas wells. New gas drilling permits must not be issued until the SGEIS solves this problem.
* The SGEIS fails to address critical issues associated with strict clean up liability, natural gas spill reporting, private right of legal action, insurance coverage and unfunded local government mandates. All those concerns must be addressed prior to the issuance of new gas drilling permits.In your role as steward of New York State, it is your responsibility to prevent development such as this.
Best wishes,
Elizabeth S - Dear Governor Paterson,
I am writing to urge you to immediately withdraw the draft Supplemental GEIS. I strongly believe it is utterly inadequate to safeguard New York's environment and public health.
The Department of Environmental Conservation's (DEC) own spill reports document existing regulations have failed to prevent or to require the clean up hundreds of natural gas and oil drilling problems involving fires, explosions, polluted drinking water wells, home evacuations and massive drilling wastewater releases. DEC must not issue new gas drilling permits until those regulatory concerns have been fully resolved. That is why the Supplemental GEIS review must be restarted.
The draft SGEIS totally fails to propose a safe method of managing natural gas drilling wastewater and hydrofracking fluid. It simply leaves that task to localities. Improper management of natural gas drilling wastewater has already caused massive toxic pollution impacts. The SGEIS must solve this disposal problem before new natural gas drilling permits are issued.
You and I know that the DEC is woefully understaffed to cope with existing natural gas drilling problems. Only 17 staff are available to regulate nearly 7,000 existing natural gas wells. New gas drilling permits must not be issued until the SGEIS solves this problem.
Finally, the SGEIS fails to address critical issues associated with strict clean up liability, natural gas spill reporting, private right of legal action, insurance coverage and unfunded local government mandates. All those concerns must be addressed prior to the issuance of new gas drilling permits.
Please remember your duty to protect New York's natural resources and public health and withdraw the draft SGEIS.
Respectfully yours,
Carole F
- Dear Chris,
Since the voluminous information available to all online,( putting in many ways, simple common sense aside for now) contradicts your position that gas drilling is safe, and the fact that Chesapeake has made a "pledge" for some strange reason not to practice this safe procedure in the New York City watershed, it occurs to me that we might come to an agreement at some point, whereby you (I'm amalgamating for present purposes the personal you with all you represent) seek to encourage passage on the Federal level of the pending Frac Act, and on the New York State level of the pending A8748, since these measures simply provide actual legal protection for all people, and your "safe" practices would remain unaffected by them in any way, since, according to your position, there is nothing in these measures your practices violate.
Of course to my eye what appears to be happening, in every place hydrofracking has been practiced, in the scads of events disastrous to human beings (leaving out the other victims for now), is the effective externalization of the costs that follow from these practices, by means of the breathtaking absence of any real legal protection against their many costly and negative consequences.
But you can reassure me in a second by helping me in my effort to see these measure made law.
Please contact Governor Paterson asap, and ask him to withdraw the dSGEIS until it includes everything in A8748, and for him to support that measure, so that you can come into our state, take what you want, and actually be accountable to do so safely.
Best of luck,
Yours truly,
Paul B
-
Dear Governor Paterson:
We, in the Finger Lakes Region, desperately need your help!
Please, immediately withdraw the draft Supplemental Environmental Impact Statement (dSGEIS) for Marcellus Shale Horizontal Drilling and Hydrofracking,
The Finger Lakes Region has two important natural resources: water and natural gas. The dSGEIS, as written, makes us choose between these.
Why? Because the dSGEIS offers exploitation of the finite gas reservoir
whose currently unmitigatable environmental impacts include the high
probability of polluted aquifers, topographical damage, widespread
damage to infrastructure (physical and medical / emergency services), as
well as severe rupturing of the region’s social fabric.Why must this choice be made now? Who is to benefit? At what costs now and what costs long term? Who is to bear these costs? Is there an unpublished cost-benefit analysis?
The 14 counties of the Finger Lakes Region have suffered economically because of the loss of manufacturing jobs and related demographic shifts. Over several decades the area has shown remarkably hard-fought growth with sustainable community development. How has this been possible?
Water is the key. The water resources are vulnerable and hugely valuable.
Unlike many regions of the United States, according to the USGS the glaciations have produced abundant and good quality water in the Finger Lakes.The regional water resource has led to two groups of significant economic benefits: a) it provided for agriculture (including the major Eastern US presence of Cornell University’s agricultural programs) and a table wine industry, and b), it provided topography whose scenery and land use have been important quality of life draws for attracting faculty and students to the region’s colleges and universities.
And all of these factors have had the cumulative impact of building a sustainable tourist industry.
To get an idea of the purely economic value of what the dSGEIS puts at high risk, please consider the following for the 14 counties of the Finger Lakes:
* The 2007 market value of agricultural products sold is $ 1.410b*
* A 2005 study of the Economic Impact of New York Grapes, Grape Juice and Wine** shows that New York is the second largest U.S. producer of table wine with an economic impact of 3.4 billion dollars. The Finger Lakes account for 85% of the total state wine production with sales (= $ 357m) and 85% of the wine-related tourist expenditures (= $ 312m) and 85% of the wine-related tourists (= 3.519m).
* The 2008 calendar year tourist data*** shows $ 2.671b for tourist spending with 57,416 tourist-related support jobs and $ 180,187m in local taxes.
Tourists will not want to visit wine country and one of the state’s most scenic regions if it becomes an industrial landscape of drilling rigs and a web of pipelines and service roads.
What percentage of wineries can close and still have the numerical mass to sustain an industry that requires a long-term commitment to the land?
What percentage of the region’s agriculture can be made unproductive and still yield an important contribution to the New York State economy?
In the present economy there is not enough money for the number of trained personnel required to ensure the law’s regulatory safety and compliance provisions, even if the number of trained personnel were available. It is clear that no amount of short-term gain to the State’s finances is worth the high risk to the State’s economic future in the projected approximately 25 to 30 year period of the gas extraction.
The dSGEIS must be immediately withdrawn and drilling permits denied until a new SGEIS and possibly a new GEIS can be written which adequately addresses a suitable balance of social, economic and environmental factors by taking into account:
a) the money and personnel actually available to monitor compliance in a timely manner,
b) the new technology’s actual environmental and infrastructure risks,
c) a deeper understanding of the uniqueness and importance of the Finger Lakes with its growing capacity for sustainable
community development, and
d)“…a better understanding of the impacts that drilling and stimulating Marcellus Shale wells might have on water supplies,
and a clearer idea of the options for wastewater disposal.”*****USDA National Agricultural Statistics Service
** by MFK Research LLC, Commissioned by the New York Wine and Grape Foundation and funded with a grant from the Empire State Development Corporation
*** by Tourism Economics division of Oxford Economics for the 2008 Annual Report commissioned by the Empire State Development Corporation, Division of Tourism
**** U.S. Department of the Interior, U.S. Geological Survey. Fact Sheet 2009-3032 Water Resources and Natural Gas Production from the Marcellus Shale, by Soeder and Kappel.Under the present GEIS and dSGEIS, there simply won’t be enough State and Federal Superfund Money to clean up this mess. And, given the record of the oil spill in Prince William Sound, Alaska and the chemical explosion at Bopal, India, there won’t be enough, if any, industry money to clean up the physical damage, if in fact, it can be cleaned.
Thank You,
Ross H.
-
Hi Dan,
I hope you are well.
I’m writing this note as a constituent and supporter of Congressman Hinchey.
I’m sure you’re aware of the campaign to get NY Governor Paterson to withdraw the draft Supplemental Generic Environmental Impact Statement (SGEIS) for potential natural gas drilling activities in the Marcellus Shale formation. There’s a lot of information about it in the email included below.
Apparently Congressman Hinchey has not signed the coalition letter. Given his role as a New York congressman and his longstanding advocacy of environmental issues it seems natural for him not only to sign the letter but to take a leadership role on this issue.
Is there a reason he hasn’t signed and isn’t taking a leadership role?
I’d like to see Congressman Hinchey step up to this, and if there is some reason he won’t or can’t I’d like to understand why not.
Thanks for your help with this!
Best regards and season’s greetings,
Mark
Mark B
-
I urge you to immediately withdraw the draft Supplemental GEIS because it is utterly inadequate to safeguard New York's environment and public health.
We have retired to upstate central New York because its beauty rivals that of Switzerland, although lacking mountains. We have no public water supply and given our population density probably never will. We're happy with that, but greedy neighbors with visions of gas dollars dancing in their heads are all set to sacrifice our water supply. I realize that the almighty? dollars usually wins, but you should have higher values. We are defenseless under a barrage of questionable science, landowners with visions of Bermuda as an escape, and environmental policies which cannot be enforced by a skeleton crew.
Given the lack of possible supervision, perhaps we should stop maintaining our septic systems, dump acid lead batteries in the back yard and generally ignore "green" initiatives -- that's the message you are giving citizens -- the gas companies win and any environmental disasters will be none of your concern.
At the very least we need legislation allowing victims to sue for damages -- are you willing to go at least that far in protecting citizens interests. If not I predict a long and protracted legal battle over the Marcellus shale.
The Department of Environmental Conservation's (DEC) own spill reports document that existing regulations have failed to prevent or to require the clean up of hundreds of natural gas and oil drilling problems involving fires, explosions, polluted drinking water wells, home evacuations and massive drilling wastewater releases. DEC must not issue new gas drilling permits until those regulatory concerns have been fully resolved. That is why the Supplemental GEIS review must be restarted.
The draft SGEIS totally fails to propose a safe method of managing natural gas drilling wastewater and hydrofracking fluid. It simply leaves that task to localities. Improper management of natural gas drilling wastewater has already caused massive toxic pollution impacts. The SGEIS must solve this disposal problem before new natural gas drilling permits are issued.
DEC is woefully understaffed to cope with existing natural gas drilling problems. Only 17 staff are available to regulate nearly 7,000 existing natural gas wells. New gas drilling permits must not be issued until the SGEIS solves this problem.
The SGEIS fails to address critical issues associated with strict clean up liability, natural gas spill reporting, private right of legal action, insurance coverage and unfunded local government mandates. All those concerns must be addressed prior to the issuance of new gas drilling permits.
Donald M., Sarah M, Sarah F. R. M.
-
Governor Paterson must immediately withdraw the draft Supplemental
GEIS because it is utterly inadequate to safeguard New York's
environment and public health.The Department of Environmental Conservation's (DEC) own spill
reports document that existing regulations have failed to prevent or
to require the clean up of hundreds of natural gas and oil drilling
problems involving fires, explosions, polluted drinking water wells,
home evacuations and massive drilling wastewater releases. DEC must
not issue new gas drilling permits until those regulatory concerns
have been fully resolved. That is why the Supplemental GEIS review
must be restarted.The draft SGEIS totally fails to propose a safe method of managing
natural gas drilling wastewater and hydrofracking fluid. It simply
leaves that task to localities. Improper management of natural gas
drilling wastewater has already caused massive toxic pollution
impacts. The SGEIS must solve this disposal problem before new
natural gas drilling permits are issued.DEC is woefully understaffed to cope with existing natural gas
drilling problems. Only 17 staff are available to regulate nearly
7,000 existing natural gas wells. New gas drilling permits must not
be issued until the SGEIS solves this problem.The SGEIS fails to address critical issues associated with strict
clean up liability, natural gas spill reporting, private right of
legal action, insurance coverage and unfunded local government
mandates. All those concerns must be addressed prior to the issuance
of new gas drilling permits.Susan D.
- Dear Gov. Patterson,
Please, please for the sake of wildlife and human-life do not allow hydraulic fracturing in or near Ithaca, NY. We have one of the most beautiful areas in NY state, in many states in this country. Please see my website for a further explanation.Â
http://www.minddancing.com/subjective-sunrise/no-fracking-way/
This is a real concern for safety. Please DO NOT ALLOW THIS TO HAPPEN.Â
Sincerely,
Sarah M -
Governor Paterson: Please seriously consider withdrawing the draft Supplemental Environmental Impact Statement (dSGEIS) for Marcellus Shale Horizontal Drilling and Hydrofracking. It is flawed in that it ignores the potential radioactive waste issues and the impacts on the groundwater some New Yorkers rely upon for drinking water.
Furthermore NYS does not have the staff to monitor the drilling activity.Michael A.
- Mr. Paterson,
If you have a soul, believe in Kharma, or have an ounce of common sense,
then ignore your corporate special interests and all the Holiday goodies they are stuffing in your
"under the table" stocking and DO THE RIGHT THING. ME A MAN withdraw the SGEIS.You probably don't care because you only drink bottled water and bath in San Pelligrino, but:
The Department of Environmental Conservation's (DEC) own spill reports document that existing regulations have failed to prevent or to require the clean up of hundreds of natural gas and oil drilling problems involving fires, explosions, polluted drinking water wells, home evacuations and massive drilling wastewater releases. DEC must not issue new gas drilling permits until those regulatory concerns have been fully resolved. That is why the Supplemental GEIS review must be restarted.
The draft SGEIS totally fails to propose a safe method of managing natural gas drilling wastewater and hydrofracking fluid. It simply leaves that task to localities. Improper management of natural gas drilling wastewater has already caused massive toxic pollution impacts. The SGEIS must solve this disposal problem before new natural gas drilling permits are issued.
DEC is woefully understaffed to cope with existing natural gas drilling problems. Only 17 staff are available to regulate nearly 7,000 existing natural gas wells. New gas drilling permits must not be issued until the SGEIS solves this problem.
The SGEIS fails to address critical issues associated with strict clean up liability, natural gas spill reporting, private right of legal action, insurance coverage and unfunded local government mandates. All those concerns must be addressed prior to the issuance of new gas drilling permits.
Governor Paterson YOU have a duty to protect New York's natural resources and public health. That is why the draft SGEIS must be withdrawn. DO THE RIGHT THING, ME A MAN withdraw the SGEIS.
I doubt you personally will read this, don't be offended by the off-beat humor, I only threw it in there to give your secretary/staff aid- the person that screens your emails a chuckle.
Respectfully yours,
Peter S
-
Along with many other New York City residents, as well as some of the residents in the immediate area of the proposed drilling itself, I believe that the State has made a serious mistake by proposing to allow drilling in the Catskill/Delaware watershed. Drilling must be banned in the city's upstate watershed. The experience in other states shows that without a ban on drilling we risk the high probability of contaminating the unfiltered water supply for 9 million New Yorkers. That is nearly half of the State's residents.
It is well-known that fresh, uncontaminated, potable drinking water is an irreplaceable natural resource that is essential for human life. It is also well known that the nation's waters are already in perilous condition from pollution and overuse. It is simply insanity to jeopardize this precious natural resource. Those in New York City who rely on the Catskill/Delaware watershed for their water and those in the upstate area who rely on groundwater in the watershed are all in grave jeopardy if drilling is allowed to proceed.
New York City and New York State have avoided the massive cost ($10-30 Billion) of a filtration system only because of a waiver from the federal Environmental Protection Agency. Just two years ago, the agency determined that the water is so clean that filtration is unnecessary. No doubt, a different verdict would be rendered by the federal government if drilling is allowed in the watershed that supplies 90 percent of NewYork city's drinking water and all the drinking water for the residents in the upstate area who rely on groundwater in the watershed.
Governor Paterson, you have built a strong record of combating environmental threats to the people of New York State. We need your leadership once again.
Kathleen W.
- Dear Governor Paterson:
As a resident of Tompkins County, NY, I am writing to request with the greatest urgency that you direct the NYS DEC to withdraw its draft "SGEIS - On The Oil, Gas and Solution Mining Regulatory Program: Well Permit Issuance for Horizontal Drilling and High-Volume Hydraulic Fracturing to Develop the Marcellus Shale and Other Low-Permeability Gas Reservoirs.” You may understand the importance with which I regard this question from the fact that I am taking part of Christmas Day to write this letter.
I am a member of the Danby Gas Drilling Task Force, which has submitted a detailed review of the draft SGEIS to the DEC and made verbal comments for the record at a hearing in Ithaca, N.Y. However, such comment is only somewhat useful; because of its underlying purpose and terms of reference the draft is completely unsound as a policy document. Even within its avowed reach, the document's research and analysis is largely inadequate.
Extracting natural gas from the Marcellus Shale formation will require the use of intrusive and environmentally risky methods that damage the land, contaminate large quantities of water, and destroy communities. I believe this development, unless very carefully managed, will have catastrophic impacts on the environment, economy, infrastructure, and social cohesion of New York State and the region as a whole.
Because of its nature – as a document to propose regulations for drilling permits – the draft SGEIS does not address social effects, reduction of non-gas economic activity, degradation of the tax base, infrastructure destruction, landscape alteration, or environmental effects of pipeline construction. These are all crucial to the long-term health and welfare of the residents of New York state. No drilling should begin until these aspects have been thoroughly assessed.
Even under its own terms of reference, the document fails to take proper account of problems experienced in other states and the DEC's own record of inadequate response to drilling related problems. It shrugs off the critical question of cumulative impact on air, water and infrastructure of the likely high density of drilling operations. The regulations it does propose are largely advisory or administered by the operating companies themselves – a recipe for abuse and irreversible toxic calamities. The DEC also imposes on itself nearly two hundred administrative and inspection tasks for which it has virtually no manpower - or ability to quickly hire and train personnel. The document contains unfunded mandates on local governments, which is prohibited by your own recent executive order. It provides no useful guidance or regulation for managing the overwhelming volumes of toxic wastewater that the process produces.
The only way to avoid disaster is an immediate de-facto moratorium on new drilling permits for the Marcellus Shale formation in New York State, imposed by withdrawing the draft SGEIS. This will allow for close scrutiny of the real issues and for appropriate legislation, regulation, and local controls to be developed. Otherwise the region will be set back for generations. New York under your leadership has an unique opportunity to provide a clear example to the entire nation in the responsible regulation of energy production from shale formations, which if unchecked will quickly cause widespread and irreversible damage.
I am asking you as a matter of the highest urgency and of national leadership to impose such a moratorium, apply such scrutiny, and to develop such controls. This would be a principled and historic action. I include below a list of recommendations.
Thank you for your attention to this vitally pressing question.
Sincerely,
Ben A - Dear Governor Patterson,
I am again writing to urge immediately withdrawal of the draft Supplemental GEIS because it is woefully inadequate to safeguard New York's environment and public health.
I understand that the Department of Environmental Conservation's (DEC) own spill reports document that existing regulations have failed to prevent or to require the clean up of hundreds of natural gas and oil drilling problems involving fires, explosions, polluted drinking water wells, home evacuations and massive drilling wastewater releases. DEC must not issue new gas drilling permits until those regulatory concerns have been fully resolved. This is why the Supplemental GEIS review must be restarted.
This draft SGEIS fails to propose a safe method of managing natural gas drilling wastewater and hydrofracking fluid and leaves that task to localities. I understand that improper management of natural gas drilling wastewater has already caused massive toxic pollution impacts. The SGEIS must solve this disposal problem before new natural gas drilling permits are issued.
I also understand that the DEC is woefully understaffed to cope with existing natural gas drilling problems. Only 17 staff are available to regulate nearly 7,000 existing natural gas wells. New gas drilling permits must not be issued until the SGEIS solves this problem.
The SGEIS fails to address critical issues associated with strict clean up liability, natural gas spill reporting, private right of legal action, insurance coverage and unfunded local government mandates. All those concerns must be addressed prior to the issuance of new gas drilling permits.
I understand and agree that if all these concerns are adequately addresses we will be able to safely obtain a limited source of energy that can carry us into the future where we will develop completely clean methods of energy that are environmentally safe and limitless, ie: solar, wind, ocean current. The bonus is that gainful employment will result today and tomorrow. Today is the time that we absolutely must consider the future generations and rewrite the draft Supplemental GEIS to adequately address the above concerns.
Thank you.
Sincerely,
Alice B
-
Dear Governor Paterson,
My husband and I retired to Ithaca from the arid Southwest almost five years ago. We love the Finger Lakes area with its abundance of water, beautiful forests, lakes and rivers, and pristine natural areas.
We are horrified that this all could be destroyed if "hydrofracking" to mine for natural gas is permitted at this time. We agree with many other citizens that much more research needs to be done so that the gas can be extracted in an environmentally safe way.I urge you to withdraw the draft Supplemental Generic Environmental Impact Statement (dSGEIS) for Marcellus Shale Horizontal Drilling and Hydrofracking.
Sincerely,
Ruby T
- Dear Governor Patterson,
We are Democratic constituents from Trumansburg. We live in New York State in good measure because of our access to pristine natural environments like the Catskills and the Adirondacks--and we enjoy the fresh water in our own well.
Because of this, and because we are concerned about our fellow citizens’ well-being in addition to the health of the land, the water, and the birds and animals, we strongly urge you to withdraw the “dSGEIS” (Draft Supplemental Generic Environmental Impact Statement) for Marcellus Shale Horizontal Drilling and Hydrofracking that was released on September 30, 2009. It does not adequately address either the known or unknown risks of hydraulic fracturing in regards to the environment or to public health.
The City of New York, in its comments regarding the dSGEIS, has claimed that the dSGEIS does not meet the requirements of the New York State Environmental Conservation Law. Among the named concerns, we are most disturbed about water contamination, the potential public health risks of hazardous chemicals proposed for use, and the potential radioactivity of the waste products.
We are also concerned about the rate and scale of drilling, the wear and tear of massive trucks driving on local roads and bridges, and the clearing of thousands of acres.Finally--while we question the economic benefit that could possibly outweigh these environmental risks--we also wonder about the economic liability of dealing with waste water and infrastructure problems brought on by the massive trucks. Who will pay for these potential problems, which at this time seem inevitable?
A few additional facts that have come to our attention cause us tremendous concern:
1) We learned that hundreds of cases have been documented by the Department of Environmental Conservation, in which the DEC itself has not prevented, or required clean-up of, natural gas and oil drilling problems.2) The draft SGEIS leaves the task of managing natural gas drilling wastewater and hydrofracking fluid to localities.
3) The DEC is woefully understaffed to cope with existing natural gas drilling problems. Could it be true that only 17 staff are available to regulate nearly 7,000 existing natural gas wells?
4) The draft SGEIS fails to address critical issues associated with strict clean up liability, natural gas spill reporting, private right of legal action, insurance coverage and unfunded local government mandates.
It seems clear to us, even as lay people, that all these concerns must be addressed prior to the issuance of new gas drilling permits. Please support responsible stewardship of New York’s land in this instance, and withdraw the dSGEIS.
Thank you,
Jenna M. and Christine L.
-
Dear Governor Paterson,
I am writing out of great concern about the proposal to drill in the Marcellus shale of upstate New York. I respectfully request that you withdraw the draft Supplemental GEIS because there are far too many dangers to our environment and public safety with this drilling procedure that are not adequately addressed. In particular, the following are extremely important issues to me:
* the use of millions of gallons of clean water, a very precious resource, fast becoming of greater concern around the world, to extract natural gas
* the pollution that occurs during the drilling process, leaving toxic chemicals in the wastewater
* the fact that there are far too many instances of fires, polluted wells, explosions, wastewater spills, and more, as documented in the DEC's own reports
* methods of disposing of wastewater and hydrofracking fluids are not adequately addressed in the draft SGEIS. It is irresponsible to leave the clean up to local communities when something goes wrong, as it has too often in the past
* until there is enough DEC staff to handle the regulation and oversight of existing gas wells, it is not at all appropriate to add new wells to the numbers(17 staff members to handle some 7000 wells is not adequate!)
* the undermining of the infrastructure of the land that this process will bring aboutI am truly appalled to think that our beautiful state could become subject to this massive, misguided drilling practice. New York state's natural resources are a priceless legacy. Let's make sure they remain that way for future generations.
Thank you for your time,
Sincerely,
Susann A
- Governor Paterson
Please immediately withdraw the draft Supplemental GEIS because it is utterly inadequate to safeguard New York's environment and public health.
The Department of Environmental Conservation's (DEC) own spill reports document that existing regulations have failed to prevent or to require the clean up of hundreds of natural gas and oil drilling problems involving fires, explosions, polluted drinking water wells, home evacuations and massive drilling wastewater releases. DEC must not issue new gas drilling permits until those regulatory concerns have been fully resolved. That is why the Supplemental GEIS review must be restarted.
The draft SGEIS totally fails to propose a safe method of managing natural gas drilling wastewater and hydrofracking fluid. It simply leaves that task to localities. Improper management of natural gas drilling wastewater has already caused massive toxic pollution impacts. The SGEIS must solve this disposal problem before new natural gas drilling permits are issued.
DEC is woefully understaffed to cope with existing natural gas drilling problems. Only 17 staff are available to regulate nearly 7,000 existing natural gas wells. New gas drilling permits must not be issued until the SGEIS solves this problem.
The SGEIS fails to address critical issues associated with strict clean up liability, natural gas spill reporting, private right of legal action, insurance coverage and unfunded local government mandates. All those concerns must be addressed prior to the issuance of new gas drilling permits.
Share your personal concerns with Governor Paterson. Please be respectful, but remember Governor Paterson has a duty to protect New York's natural resources and public health. That is why the draft SGEIS must be withdrawn.
Thank you
Jerone G
- Dear Governor Patterson,
Although I am not a resident in your state, I admire the job you have been doing thus far. I like independent thinkers who are brave enough to vote their minds. Please consider blocking this deplorable plan for the gas drilling in upstate NY. It may look good in the short term but is so damaging and potentially deadly in the long term. Please do all you can to block this misadventure.Thank you
Lynda G -
Dear Governor Patterson:
I respectfully urge you to withdraw the Supplemental GEIS on Marcellus Shale Horizontal Hydrofracking. The SGEIS inadequately explains what safeguards are in place to protect the environment and public health. The DEC does not have sufficient resources to monitor drilling across upstate New York. Who will be responsible for the cleanup of toxic waste?
Upstate New York has fertile farmland, forests, and lakes that provide water to millions of people. If drilling is permitted, there will be an increase in lorry traffic on already stressed roadways. The quality of the air we breathe, the soil we grow our crops on, and the water we drink will be severely degraded, if not become completely toxic. The economic and environmental risks involved in drilling are too great.
Thank you for your time and consideration.
Sincerely,
April R
- Dear Governor Paterson,
I am writing to ask you to immediately withdraw the draft Supplemental
GEIS regarding horizontal gas drilling in the Marcellus Shale. The
document is utterly inadequate to safeguard New York's environment and
public health. I understand that we have some serious budget
shortfalls to figure out but please don't make gas drilling the way to
close the gaps. I have a minor in Environmental Studies and I know
from reading case studies that this is not a good idea. Please don't
risk making upstate New York another environmental disaster case
study.Would you sign a gas lease in YOUR backyard knowing that you could end
up with radium, benzene, toulene, and who knows how many other toxic
chemicals in your drinking and bathing water?The Department of Environmental Conservation's (DEC) own spill reports
document existing regulations have failed to prevent or to require the
clean up of hundreds of natural gas and oil drilling problems
involving fires, explosions, polluted drinking water wells, home
evacuations and massive drilling wastewater releases. DEC must not
issue new gas drilling permits until those regulatory concerns have
been fully resolved. This is not a risk worth taking. In upstate New
York, most of us rely on wells as our only source of drinking water.
The SGEIS recommends only using water from drinking wells near gas
wells as a last resort. These wells are currently our only option.The draft SGEIS totally fails to propose a safe method of managing
natural gas drilling wastewater and hydrofracking fluid. It simply
leaves that task to localities. This just shifts state financial woes
onto localities. Improper management of natural gas drilling
wastewater has already caused massive toxic pollution impacts. The
SGEIS must solve this disposal problem before new natural gas drilling
permits are issued.The DEC is woefully understaffed to cope with existing natural gas
drilling problems. Only 17 staff are available to regulate nearly
7,000 existing natural gas wells. New gas drilling permits must not
be issued until the SGEIS solves this problem.The SGEIS fails to address critical issues associated with strict
clean up liability, natural gas spill reporting, private right of
legal action, insurance coverage and unfunded local government
mandates. All those concerns must be addressed prior to the issuance
of new gas drilling permits.As your constituent and a highly concerned citizen, I urge you please
to think very hard about this and to do to anything you can in your
power as our elected leader to prevent the many harmful impacts of
horizontal gas drilling from happening in our state.Sincerely,
Rob C
-
Dear Governor Paterson,
I am writing to urge you to withdraw the draft supplemental Generic Environmental Impact Statement proposed by our state's Department of Environmental Conservation. (I will later refer to this as the "draftSGEIS".) While an attempt to control possible environmental impacts of the proposed well-drilling for natural gas in the Marcellus shale formation, this document has serious flaws which must be addressed in far more detail.
Our state is already paying huge sums for cleaning up previous examples of hasty industrial development which have harmed the environment. I need only point to the Hudson River cleanup of polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) generated by years of neglect of this manufactured product — right near Albany. These sorts of chemicals are not only costing taxpayers needed funds but have threatened municipal water supplies all down our grandest river. There is no end in sight to these expenses. Do we need to incur more expense at possibly thousands of other sites as a result of drilling "accidents"?
New York is also expending large amounts of our tax dollars cleaning up so-called "brown fields" all across the state. These are cases where companies have either not been regulated or have neglected to clean up the results of their processes and have left the mess for us, the taxpayers, to clean up. It is easy for a corporate entity to extract the value of a commodity and then flee, leaving the state holding the toxic bag. We must have more control over these kinds of activities in the future.
We hear that drilling for natural gas in the Marcellus shale will take place far underground. Nevertheless, the mix of water and chemicals — "produced water" — returns to the surface after "fracking" and must then be disposed of. We cannot have this mixture dumped into our rivers or lakes. We cannot have it injected into "deep wells" to possibly later return to the surface in unknown locations. Out of sight does not mean out of existence. Due to the nature of this shale layer, the "produced water" will likely contain radioactive elements, which are also not allowed to be dumped anywhere under current regulations. We need further serious consideration of these kinds of byproducts.
It is proposed that in other areas, the water from hydrofracturing is placed in "holding ponds". Holding until when? Again, unless tightly controlled, these ponds of toxic waste could be "holding" until a subcontractor either leaves the area or even declares bankruptcy, making the state or locality responsible for dealing with it. Spills from "holding ponds" or from liquids being transported to "holding ponds" present many opportunities for accidental environmental contamination. This is unacceptable.
The wastewater from drilling operations contains what are stated as "small percentages" of other products. While .5% might seem small, .5% of the 3 million gallons of water mixture needed to drill a single well could be about 1,500 gallons! Supposing just 1/5 of this were a compound like benzene, this means you would have 500 gallons of benzene from a single well. Were I to dump this amount on the field across from my house, I would be immediately subject to fines and possible prison for pollution. We cannot allow this kind of activity without strict regulation.
Suggestions that such wastewater can be treated in municipal wastewater treatment plants border on the ludicrous. While the DEC proposes various techniques for separating out these chemicals, drilling companies have already tried to foist off these byproducts on municipal water treatment systems. This is not the sort of thing municipal plants can do. Corporations making profits from extracting natural resources must be accountable for all the products of their operations.
You yourself have suggested that extraction of natural gas from shale will create jobs and economic benefits for the state. How about the value of properties in the vicinity of these activities? My house and land have already been negatively affected by the mere suggestion of gas drilling in this region. House and realty values will be depressed when a rural area is turned into industrial sites. The pristine Finger Lakes area has benefitted in recent years from tourism, wineries and even recommendations as a prime place to live.This area would be seriously hurt by this kind of gas development, especially without very strict controls on the part of the state. The changes this form of industrial exploitation would cause irreparable economic and social harm to this magnificent natural landscape.
Numerous reports have noted that the most precious commodity in the world's future is fresh water. Here, in the Finger Lakes and the Great Lakes region, we have the world's major supply of fresh water. To put this irreplaceable resource at risk for a short term energy supply is foolish and shortsighted. We cannot allow that to happen. Promises about the good intentions of corporations seeking to exploit such resources are, I hope, honest. However, history of other resource development, [see: coal mining, metals mining, previous oil and gas development, even nuclear development], have proven that many things can go wrong, either intentionally or accidentally.
What we are facing here is a short term profit: a quick burst of energy lasting a few decades at most; jobs in the short term; possible revenue benefits to the state, also short-term; versus long term consequences for future state residents who will follow us.
For all these reasons, I cannot urge you strongly enough to withdraw the draft supplemental GEIS and to work toward true controls that will protect the people of New York State and its human environment. We need a stronger and better staffed DEC with workable and effective regulations to maintain the land we love and to keep it worth loving.Thank you for your attention to my concerns,
Eugene E.
- Governor Patterson,
As a home owner in both Sullivan county and NYC, I strongly request that you immediately withdraw the draft Supplemental GEIS because it is utterly inadequate to safeguard New York's environment and public health.
The Department of Environmental Conservation's (DEC) own spill reports document that existing regulations have failed to prevent or to require the clean up of hundreds of natural gas and oil drilling problems involving fires, explosions, polluted drinking water wells, home evacuations and massive drilling wastewater releases. DEC must not issue new gas drilling permits until those regulatory concerns have been fully resolved. That is why the Supplemental GEIS review must be restarted.
The draft SGEIS totally fails to propose a safe method of managing natural gas drilling wastewater and hydrofracking fluid. It simply leaves that task to localities. Improper management of natural gas drilling wastewater has already caused massive toxic pollution impacts. The SGEIS must solve this disposal problem before new natural gas drilling permits are issued.
DEC is woefully understaffed to cope with existing natural gas drilling problems. Only 17 staff are available to regulate nearly 7,000 existing natural gas wells. New gas drilling permits must not be issued until the SGEIS solves this problem.
The SGEIS fails to address critical issues associated with strict clean up liability, natural gas spill reporting, private right of legal action, insurance coverage and unfunded local government mandates. All those concerns must be addressed prior to the issuance of new gas drilling permits.
Governor Paterson, you have a duty to protect New York's natural resources and public health. That is why the draft SGEIS must be withdrawn. According to studies at Cornell University there are safer ways to extract the natural gas.
Sincerely,
Dan P. -
Dear Governor Paterson:
In order to safeguard the environment, public health and natural resources that overlay the Marcellus Shale formation, I request you to withdraw the draft Supplemental Generic Environmental Impact Statement released on 9/30/09 by your Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC). Many scientific studies have indicated that the damage from the methods used to extract natural gas would be devastating.
You have already been made aware of the facts of the case. Please, for the sake of your state, follow the recommendations of the DEC and other studies.Sincerely,
Rosemary P.
- Dear Governor Paterson,
As a resident of New York state, I am writing to ask you to withdraw the draft Supplemental GEIS on Marcellus Shale Horizontal Hydrofracking.
I am deeply concerned about the implications of this document, which I feel is utterly inadequate to safeguard New York's environment and public health.The Department of Environmental Conservation's (DEC) own spill reports document that existing regulations have failed to prevent or to require the clean up of hundreds of natural gas and oil drilling problems involving fires, explosions, polluted drinking water wells, home evacuations and massive drilling wastewater releases. DEC must not issue new gas drilling permits until those regulatory concerns have been fully resolved. That is why the Supplemental GEIS review must be restarted.
The draft SGEIS totally fails to propose a safe method of managing natural gas drilling wastewater and hydrofracking fluid. It simply leaves that task to localities. Improper management of natural gas drilling wastewater has already caused massive toxic pollution impacts. The SGEIS must solve this disposal problem before new natural gas drilling permits are issued.
DEC is woefully understaffed to cope with existing natural gas drilling problems. Only 17 staff are available to regulate nearly 7,000 existing natural gas wells. New gas drilling permits must not be issued until the SGEIS solves this problem.
The SGEIS fails to address critical issues associated with strict clean up liability, natural gas spill reporting, private right of legal action, insurance coverage and unfunded local government mandates. All those concerns must be addressed prior to the issuance of new gas drilling permits.
Thank you for your time,
Kristie S. - Governor Patterson
I have MAJOR concerns about the fracture shale drilling for natural gas. We need to do all we can to safeguard New York's environment and public health. It is already at great risk with many super fund sites still in need of cleaning up.
I implore you to withdraw the draft Supplemental GEIS on Marcellus Shale Horizontal Hydrofracking. We shouldn't be wasting money and precious resources chasing finite sources of oil & gas. It is time to move on to RENEWAL sources of energy. I would like to see NY lead the way to show the rest of the country that there are better ways to fuel the world. Ask all colleges to submit new ideas for renewable energy. Let's get EVERYONE involved and stop our dependence on fossil fuels, NOW!!
Sincerely,Joan R.
- Dear Governor Paterson,
I am writing you to please withdraw the 9/30/09 draft Supplemental Environmental Impact Statement (dSGEIS) for Marcellus Shale Permit Issuance for Horizontal Drilling and High-volume Hydrofracking.
I am a biologist living in the Mojave desert , California but I grew up in Ithaca, NY and visit family and friends in Ithaca every summer. You have an opportunity now to protect the beauty of the upstate region in New York. I urge you to do so. It is imperative that you protect not only the beauty but also the health of the environment and the health of your upstate citizens. Hydrofracking involves the injecting of hazardous chemicals into and adjacent to underground sources of water. Keep NYState water CLEAN for residents and tourists alike.
Thank you for your time.
Sincerely,
Susan M.
- Dear Governor Paterson,
Please withdraw the draft Supplemental GEIS on Marcellus Shale
Horizontal Hydrofracking. The risk to water supplies as well as the
long range environmental impact is not acceptable. I am in favor of
clean energy but not at the risk of being penny wise and pound
foolish. Clean water and its availability is in jeopardy already
without making it more vulnerable.Sincerely,
Diana and Joe W.
-
Dear Governor Patterson,
I ask that you immediately withdraw the draft Supplemental GEIS because
it is utterly inadequate to safeguard New York's environment and public
health. I offer the following points:
* The Department of Environmental Conservation's (DEC) own spill
reports document existing regulations have failed to prevent or to
require the clean up hundreds of natural gas and oil drilling problems
involving fires, explosions, polluted drinking water wells, home
evacuations and massive drilling wastewater releases. DEC must not issue
new gas drilling permits until those regulatory concerns have been fully
resolved. That is why the Supplemental GEIS review must be restarted.
* The draft SGEIS totally fails to propose a safe method of managing natural gas drilling wastewater and hydrofracking fluid. It simply leaves
that task to localities. Improper management of natural gas drilling
wastewater has already caused massive toxic pollution impacts. The SGEIS
must solve this disposal problem before new natural gas drilling permits
are issued.
* DEC is woefully understaffed to cope with existing natural gas
drilling problems. Only 17 staff are available to regulate nearly 7,000
existing natural gas wells. New gas drilling permits must not be issued
until the SGEIS solves this problem.
* The SGEIS fails to address critical issues associated with
strict clean up liability, natural gas spill reporting, private right of
legal action, insurance coverage and unfunded local government mandates.
All those concerns must be addressed prior to the issuance of new gas
drilling permits. In your role as steward of New York State, it is your responsibility
to prevent development such as this.Best wishes,
Elizabeth S - Dear Governor Paterson:
You must immediately withdraw the draft Supplemental GEIS because it is utterly inadequate to safeguard New York's environment and public health.
The Department of Environmental Conservation's (DEC) own spill reports document existing regulations have failed to prevent or to require the clean up hundreds of natural gas and oil drilling problems involving fires, explosions, polluted drinking water wells, home evacuations and massive drilling wastewater releases. DEC must not issue new gas drilling permits until those regulatory concerns have been fully resolved. That is why the Supplemental GEIS review must be restarted.
The draft SGEIS totally fails to propose a safe method of managing natural gas drilling wastewater and hydrofracking fluid. It simply leaves that task to localities. Improper management of natural gas drilling wastewater has already caused massive toxic pollution impacts. The SGEIS must solve this disposal problem before new natural gas drilling permits are issued.
DEC is woefully understaffed to cope with existing natural gas drilling problems. Only 17 staff are available to regulate nearly 7,000 existing natural gas wells. New gas drilling permits must not be issued until the SGEIS solves this problem.
The SGEIS fails to address critical issues associated with strict clean up liability, natural gas spill reporting, private right of legal action, insurance coverage and unfunded local government mandates. All those concerns must be addressed prior to the issuance of new gas drilling permits.
- Dear Gov. Paterson,
I would like to take this opportunity to speak out in favor of rescinding the Marcellus Shale SGEIS. I belong to the New York State Maple Producers Association, making Sapsquatch Maple Syrup in Enfield, NY (www.sapsquatch.com). My business depends on clean ground water, pristine views and a healthy community to assist me in my yearly work on the farm. The current SGEIS does not ensure that any of these will be protected. There are too many loop-holes for industry to worm its way through to ensure that our local agriculture businesses will be protected.
I know that you have not spent much time in Upstate NY outside of Albany, but you may be surprised to know that agriculture is still a thriving industry here, especially in the Finger Lakes area. Here in Ithaca, we have many organic producers, wineries, creameries and sugar houses. If you allow the SGEIS to stand, you are saying to us hard working New York farmers that we are not worth as much to you as the oil and gas industries that are coming from outside the state with drilling equipment forged elsewhere with roughnecks from who-knows-where and whose profits will largely be leaving our state. This does not make good business sense. The state is hoping to solve it's short term fiscal problems with gas leasing revenues, but selling us all out in the long term. If we are left with polluted water, desecrated landscapes and sick people, NY agriculture will die, along with a people who have been the backbone of this state since it's inception.
Instead of making a quick buck selling out to the gas companies, invest in New York's future, my children's future. Did you know that only 2% of our tappable maple trees in NY are currently in production. We are talking about more than $700 million in untapped revenue. Not only would investment in NY's maple industry put revenue back in our banks, but we would also be able to address unemployment in many of our counties such as Broome and Chemung where the unemployment rate last year was nearly 10%.
Maple producers are also good stewards of the land. It has been proven conclusively that with good forest management, you increase the amount of carbon sequestered, the amount of sawable logs available, and the wildlife and native plant value of those woods. There are many other crops available in our woods including fine woodworking materials, edible mushrooms and wild leeks, medicinal plants such as ginseng, not to mention the tourism potential that such beautiful and well managed wood lots offer. What I am saying is that there is potential in New York to jump start a whole new forest based industry based on small scale artisan production of diverse forest crops with maple syrup as the cornerstone. Are you willing to flush this down the tubes with all that spent fracking fluid? Are you willing to New York farmers past, present and future? Is this your legacy?
Sincerely,
Joshua D - New York's natural resources are a vital and irreplaceable part of our heritage and the legacy we'll leave behind. Before the drilling begins, New York State needs to protect our natural resources.
Gentlemen, I have worked in the oil and gas business in west Texas and east New Mexico back in the late 70's. While the mechanics of drilling have changed some, the chemistry and geology have not.One cold windy January day, on a gas well in Caprock, N. M. that our crew was working on and Halliburton had just done a re-fracturing; it blew out, spraying those of us on the work platform. Within five minutes our outer clothing disintegrated and fell off. Yes, fracking cocktails are THAT Caustic!
At that time there were three watchdog groups monitoring us; O.S.H.A., and oddly the Cattleman's Assoc. and Railroad Comm. I asked the old timers about that odd combination; seems that in the earliest days of exploration for petroleum products many beef cattle were lost to exposure to contaminated water, salt laden drilling mud and crude oil spills not to mention poison gas! What was bad for the ranchers was also bad for the rail road's bottom line.One must also consider the difference in topography and hydrology, flat,dry,lands with an average depth to ground water much deeper than ours here in the East, gives much more response time for haz. mat. teams to clean up a spill or accident before it causes extreme damage. Our much more densely populated area only compounds the risks.
With this new horizontal drilling being proposed, what method of checking the distance and direction of the wells will be put in place to ensure that no one has gone beyond the bounds of their lease and is stealing product from a contiguous neighbor? Who will pay for such extensive engineering?
Consider also the increased amount of over weight trucks, tankers, drill rigs and pulling units(used to do repairs and general maintenance on wells) and the impact to State, county and local roads. In Texas the oil companies contribute heavily to such repair and maintenance, I wonder if NY will have the political will to impose fair road use tax to all exploration companies so we residents wont be subsidizing them with our tax dollars!
Remember "John Wayne" as Red Adair in "Hell fighters" here in the East we have neither the right equipment or trained personal in any fire department paid or volunteer to deal with a well fire. Where will they come from and how long would it take them to get here when needed?
Lastly natural gas, while the cleanest of fossil fuels still produces CO,Co 2 and other pollutants. It has often been found with other gases such as butane, methane, hydrogen sulfide and hydrogen sulfate, which then have to be separated out and gotten rid of. Historically they have been for the most part, simply burned off, adding yet more air pollution and serving no use. If the rosy predictions of a one hundred year supply of natural gas is in fact found here in the east, it is my greatest fear that such a slow transitional fuel supply will greatly retard most all twenty first century alternative energy development such as Hydrogen gas, solar, wind, tidal flow, mini-hydro-electric plants and geothermal. Should this happen, New York and America will once again miss an important opportunity and fall behind many other countries in an ever growing global economy.
Thank you for your time in considering this important turning point in our future, I would just say NO!
Most Sincerely, Rev. James Davis
Environmental Director, Wittenberg Center - Dear Governor Paterson,
I wish to join my voice to those urging you to withdraw the draft SGEIS for natural gas drilling in the Marcellus Shale. Leading scientists in the field have pointed out the dangers of the drilling itself, the chemical-laced water used in the process, and the near-impossibility of regulating it dependably.
The ultimate cost in environmental degradation, as well as in dollars, to the population of New York State is incalculable - literally! - from here. Please do what you can to stop the runaway speed with which the companies involved want to start drilling, and allow time to study all the aspects of the problem to see whether the benefits really outweigh the damage to be done to our state.
Sincerely yours,
Fayal G
- Dear Governor Paterson:
I am a resident of Newfield, Tompkins Co, NY, a landowner (40 acres) who gets my drinking water from a well on my land, and a voter who supported you in the last gubernatorial election. I am writing to urge you to withdraw the draft Supplemental Generic Environmental Impact Statement that deals with gas exploration in the Marcellus Shale underlying New York State, and to start the process over.
I have attended two public hearings and read numerous articles discussing hdyrofracking and its potential impact on water resources and the environment. In particular, I am well aware of contamination of water supplies in Pennsylvania, Colorado and other areas caused by this method of recovering natural gas. I join with many others, including many of my local representatives and Congressman Hinchey, in stating emphatically that what DEC is currently proposing is totally inadequate to safeguard our water supplies and the environement and should be jettisoned.
To cite just a few of the most egregioius deficiencies, DEC fails to
• propose a safe method of managing the huge volumes of chemical and radioactivity laden wastewater that will be produced by hydrofracking. It is currently left to local government, with no requirement that the energy companies put in place the infrastructure required to deal with their waste
• require disclosure of the chemicals that will be used in the• declare that strict liability will be imposed for all damages shown to be caused by activities associated with hydrofracking
• demonstrate how it will do all the necessary monitoring and inspection and handle any problems that arise, with only 17 staff members available for this task who are already responsible for 7000 existing conventional gas wells in NYS
• require energy companies who will be reaping all the profits to pay for third-party testing of water supplies, including private water wells, prior to and at regular intervals after drilling commences.
• examine the cumulative impacts on the area of withdrawing the huge volumes of water required by hydrofracking
• review the growing number of contamination incidents being reported from areas where hydrofracking is already taking place. In particular, the DEC has not waited to take into consideration the study currently being done by the EPA.
• require setbacks from homes, wells, waterways that protect the wells and properties of those who chose not to lease their land. The proposed setbacks, anywhere form 100 to a thousand feet, are ridiculous for the type of industrial activity and chemical use that will take place.
There is a justice issue involved here that has not received much discussion. In Tompkins County, while 36% of the land has been leased, only 6% of the population is responsible for this. Given that it is impossible to restrict the effects of this kind of drilling to the land of those who have signed leases, it is wrong to force the other 94% of the population here to assume the risks and see their property values drop, so that a few may profit. I did not lease my land although I was approached three times. With what DEC has proposed so far, the wells and properties of those who did not sign leases are very vulnerable.
Many existing liveihoods are also vulnerable. We are blessed to have beautiful unspoiled landscapes and good quality water in the Finger Lakes region. Current economic activity of tourism, vineyards and winemaking, outdoor recreation, dairy farming and other types of agriculture depends heavily on both. The value of these existing activities, $392 billion over the next twenty years, far exceeds the estimated $22 billion that natural gas drilling may bring in over the same period. The livelihoods of all these people should not be put at risk for the benefit of a few energy companies and a few landowners.
Congressman Hinchey submitted written comments to the DEC on Dec 22 in which he outlined 11 steps that DEC needs to take to safeguard the region's water and environment before it permits drilling by hydrofracturing in NYS. These steps are very reasonable and prudent, and I strongly support them. The gas in the Marcellus Shale is not going anywhere. We have the time to do this right and not repeat the mistakes made in other states.
Please withdraw the current draft SGEIS and continue the moratorium on drilling in NYS.
Respectfully,
Marie T
-
Honorable Governor Paterson,
Thank you for your leadership and concern for the people of New York State. Please do everything possible to stop Gas drilling in New York State. Our water and environment are too important to be tempered with.
Respectfully,
Nadia S
- Dear Governor Paterson
Please withdraw the draft sGEIS. Clearly more time is needed to make sure the environmental regulations of the gas industry protect our water. We need to ensure we don't sacrifice our drinking water for this domestic energy industry. I believe we can have both, but need to do it right.
I believe this action will buy more time for upstate NY to get it right -- ensuring adequate water treatment facilities, adequate DEC staffing for monitoring, and adequate regulations on the gas extraction companies for avoiding problems in the first place. We have growth in sustainable economic sectors -- wineries, small scale organic farms, tourism, arts, etc. -- that we need to protect. New industry must fit into our environment with adequate regulation to avoid grave consequences to all of our businesses.
Thank you, and thank you for all of your hard work in these very difficult times.
Victoria Armstong
-- Grant Coordinator for The Hangar Theatre
-- Longstanding Fundraising Committee Member, Cayuga Waterfront Trail Initiative
-- Self-employed Musician
-- Mother of two children
-- Spouse of a businessman (Campbell & Davies)
-- Daughter of a longtime businessman
-- Friend and family member of numerous persons lost to cancerVictoria A
- Dear Governor Patterson:
I respectfully urge you to withdraw the Supplemental GEIS on Marcellus Shale Horizontal Hydrofracking. The SGEIS inadequately explains what safeguards are in place to protect the environment and public health. The DEC does not have sufficient resources to monitor drilling across upstate New York. Who will be responsible for the cleanup of toxic waste?
Upstate New York has fertile farmland, forests, and lakes that provide water to millions of people. If drilling is permitted, there will be an increase in lorry traffic on already stressed roadways. The quality of the air we breathe, the soil we grow our crops on, and the water we drink will be severely degraded, if not become completely toxic. The economic and environmental risks involved in drilling are too great.
Thank you for your time and consideration.
Sincerely,
April R
- Dear Governor Paterson,
A fork in the road lies before you: either you can grant the already rich
and powerful gas companies the ability to make themselves richer or you can
save the residents of New York State from the devastation and destruction
that natural gas drilling in the Marcellus Shale will cause. I write to
urge you to withdraw the current sDGEIS as it is totally inadequate and will
not protect the water, land or air quality, Namely the DEC does not have
sufficient staff to monitor gas drilling and prevent accidents before they
occur, there is no adequate plan for waste water disposal and no cumulative
impact study. The sDGEIS should have actual regulations in place
for gas drilling and not rely on best practices. Cash strapped local
authorities should not have to bear the burden of the extra expense of
repairing roads destroyed by heavy truck traffic.As you know, the Catskill region is a precious natural resource and much of
its revenue come from tourism. If gas drilling is permitted in the region
the tourist industry will die and will not return even after the gas
drillers have departed. In other locations where there has been extensive
gas drilling, Texas, Colorado and Wyoming it appears it is a boom and bust
industry and has not brought permanent benefits to the residents.Governor Paterson, I am sure you do not want your legacy to be that of the
Governor who oversaw the destruction of our beautiful Catskills. Therefore
I implore you to withdraw the sDGEIS and declare a one-year moratorium on
gas drilling, or better still, ban hydrofracing completely in New York
State.Sincerely yours,
Jane B
- Governor Paterson,
Like so many other New York State citizens, and especially those who depend on upstate reservoirs for unfiltered drinking water, I urge you to withdraw the draft Supplemental GEIS Impact Statement on Marcellus Shale drilling for natural gas. This program will be a disaster for New York State, for the metro region's water supply, and it must be stopped. The draft impact statement is utterly insufficient to protect New York's environment and water supply.
1. The Department of Environmental Conservation's (DEC) own spill reports document existing regulations have failed to prevent or to require the clean up hundreds of natural gas and oil drilling problems involving fires, explosions, polluted drinking water wells, home evacuations and massive drilling wastewater releases. DEC must not issue new gas drilling permits until those regulatory concerns have been fully resolved. That is why the Supplemental GEIS review must be restarted.
2. The draft SGEIS totally fails to propose a safe method of managing natural gas drilling wastewater and hydrofracking fluid. It simply leaves that task to localities. Improper management of natural gas drilling wastewater has already caused massive toxic pollution impacts. The SGEIS must solve this disposal problem before new natural gas drilling permits are issued.
3. DEC is woefully understaffed to cope with existing natural gas drilling problems. Only 17 staff are available to regulate nearly 7,000 existing natural gas wells. New gas drilling permits must not be issued until the SGEIS solves this problem.
4. The SGEIS fails to address critical issues associated with strict clean up liability, natural gas spill reporting, private right of legal action, insurance coverage and unfunded local government mandates. All those concerns must be addressed prior to the issuance of new gas drilling permits.As Govenrnor you have a duty to protect New York's natural resources and public health. That is why the draft SGEIS must be withdrawn.
Sincerely,
Jeffrey H
-
Dear Governor David A. Paterson,
As you know, NYS residents are deeply concerned about your willingness to continue the development of natural gas production with the deeply flawed regulations (and lack of regulations) put forward in the dSGEIS. These regulations do not fufill you duty to protect the environment of NYS and the public health of residents.
The entire document is based on the premise the the current EIS is adequate. Walter Hang's work has shown it to been deeply flawed in scope and practice for managing and cleaning up fires, explosions, massive releases of fracking fluid, and wastewater treatment. We have already experienced impacts from these problem areas, and we are seeing the potential for even more massive problems by observing what is happening in PA.
The DEC is understaffed to deal with gas drilling. Our local officials lack the knowledge and enforcement tools needed. Many of our roads and bridges have not been updated in decades, and are not adequate for truck traffic. They also lack important safety features for residents, such as sidewalks to keep pedestrians safe. We are all concerned about drinking water quality, both downstate and upstate, and we have seen pollution of drinking water, and releases of toxic chamicals in PA. There are no adequate measures for clean-up liability and enforcement, for citizens to take necessary and appropriate legal action to protect themselves and their water supplies. The infrastructure for wastewater treatment is nonexistent or completely inadequate.Where will the billions of gallons of water come from? How will localities control what is being removed?
Two local concerns I would like to hear your plans for:How is the quality of the ithaca's drinking water being monitored in light of the dumping of 3 million gallons of fracking fluid into Cayuga Lake just above our water source? Who is monitoring this? How are public health concerns being met and monitored?
Secondly, we know fracking fluid travels in unexpected ways. How will leaks into the salt mines under Cayuga Lake be handled?
Fracking fluid has been measured to travel thousands of feet along cracks in rock. Can you guarantee the clean water of our lakes and the Catskill Reservoirs with these regulations?
As Governor of NYS it is your duty to protect the natural resources and public health of the entire state of NY.We are looking to you to stand up for all of us. Please act on this duty by withdrawing the dSEIS, and take the time to create legislation, enforcement and infrastructure that will protect all New Yorkers.
Marty B
- Dear Governor Paterson:
Please withdraw the 9/30/09 draft Supplemental Environmental Impact Statement (dSGEIS) for Marcellus Shale Well Permit Issuance for Horizontal Drilling and High-Volume Hydrofracking.
The DEC itself has documented repeated failures to prevent oil and gas drilling pollution impacts. These regulatory shortcomings must be fixed prior to the DEC issuing new drilling permits. The City of New York's reservoirs, water supply sources and the environment of the upstate NY could become irreparably contaminated.
Please withdraw the dSGEIS! It is not in the best interest of the people of your state.
Lisa K
-
Dear Governor Paterson:
Clean water, fresh air and hearing the sounds of nature are some of the best things about life in rural New York State. They hydrofracking of the Marcellus Shale threatens to disrupt this natural resource. Please withdraw the 9/30/09 draft Supplemental Environmental Impact Statement (dSGEIS) for Marcellus Shale Well Permit Issuance for Horizontal Drilling and High-Volume Hydrofracking.
The DEC itself has documented repeated failures to prevent oil and gas drilling pollution impacts. These regulatory shortcomings must be fixed prior to the DEC issuing new drilling permits. The City of New York's reservoirs, water supply sources and the environment of the upstate NY could become irreparably contaminated.
Please withdraw the dSGEIS!
============================================
David D - Dear Governor Paterson:
The draft Supplemental Environmental Impact Statement for Marcellus Shale Well Permit Issuance for Horizontal Drilling and High-Volume Hydrofracking is not adequate for maintaining the health of New York's people or environment and should be withdrawn. Both the immediate problems and lingering effects associated with such drilling have not been properly accounted for. Immediate issues such as fires, explosions, polluted drinking water wells, home evacuations and drilling wastewater releases have not been prevented or dealt with properly after their occurrence, and the lingering effects of wastewater and hydrofracking fluid that localities are ill-equipped to deal with makes it likely that additional pollution will occur via their disposal. In addition, the Department of Environmental Conservation lacks the resources to deal with problems at gas drilling wells already in existence, making the addition of a new well even more problematic. The draft SGEIS does not account for these concerns, and the issuance of further permits without addressing them would be detrimental to public health and the environment. Thank you.
Sincerely,
Brian M
- Dear Governor Patterson,
While i understand the revenues possible, and all the pressure to allow
hydro fracking I urge you to continue the investigation of the process
and the effect fracking will have on drinking water in the state. I love
my drinking water and it comes from a natural underground spring. I see
NYC has gotten some weak concessions from a drilling company, but the city
wants an outright ban on drilling. Cornell University is calling for more
study of the issue, even though they would like the revenue. No money is
worth the possible harm drilling could cause. There is no immediate need
to begin fracking. More study is needed. You have a chance to be a
champion on this issue and to lead the environmental movement in this
state. I hope you rise to the occasion and continue the ban on
hydro fracking.Thank you.
Gary
- Dear Governor Paterson,
I am writing respectfully to request that you withdraw the dSGEIS on natural gas drilling in New York. For all the reasons outlined in the petition circulated by Walter Hang of Toxics Targeting, I urge you to re-evaluate your position on this profound threat to New York's landscape and communities.
As Senator Robert Byrd has recently repudiated his lifelong support for the ecological disaster that is mountain-top removal coal mining, so too should you consider your legacy to New Yorkers and require the DEC to return to the drawing board to prevent the ecological disaster awaiting us should the draft Supplemental be adopted.
Our environmental heritage has no price tag and should not be for sale. Please do the right thing for the citizens of New York and withdraw this document forthwith.
Yours sincerely,
Suzanne M
- Dear Governor Peterson,
I am an extremely concerned citizen regarding the possible horizontal
drilling and hydrofracking. I urge you to withdraw the draft
Supplemental Environmental Impact Statement (dSGEIS) for Marcellus
Shale Horizontal Drilling and Hydrofracking. Our environment and water
supplies are too precious to risk. Your citizens are counting on you
to protect them from contamination and pollution caused by this. The
natural gas companies will need to find environmentally sound ways to
drill.Thank you.
Ann H
- Dear Governor Paterson:
I respectfully request that you withdraw the draft Supplemental GEIS and send this issue back for further research and a more comprehensive review of all of the issues surrounding drilling for natural gas in the Marcellus shale.
As both a private citizen and resident of Van Etten, NY, and a professional in the field of natural resources policy and planning, I have read the report and find it inadequate on many fronts. I have submitted specific comments to the DEC but also am writing to you directly.
I believe that the information in the report is less than comprehensive, and that the proposed regulations, while a good start, will not adequately ensure the health of the New York environment or New York citizens. The number of problems associated with drilling, hydrofracturing shale, and transport of drilling materials grows every day. These include wells that are polluted with chemicals and radioactivity, fires, explosions, and releases of drilling wastewater. I firmly believe that DEC should not be allowed to issue any permits until absolutely safe methods of dealing with these issues--not to mention the potential destruction of rural roads--are guaranteed or as close to guaranteed as possible. While the amount of gas in the shale is reported to be high, it is really not so great--enough gas for the country for two short years?--to place our environment and health at risk through haste. I have been working with our town board to understand and figure out how to deal with these issues, and the board is somewhere between worried and terrified about the potential impact to our rural community.
I believe that you are aware that the SGEIS fails to address many critical issues including the reporting of natural gas spills, insurance coverage for problems that occur, and the ability of local governments to deal with these problems. In addition, and perhaps most problematic, the report does not deal in any way with the cumulative impacts of drilling.
Energy development and economic growth are certainly important in New York, but please, let's be careful. We can't afford to take any chances at all with our water, the most susceptible and important of all of our natural resources.
Sincerely,
Rick B
- Honorable Governer David Patterson,
Today the City of New York DEC have released their letter concerning their impact on the NYC watershed. I submit to you the common sense conclusion of that a poisonous impact on the local communities where this drilling will occur is inevidible. In the NYC DEC letter they point out the obvious, the process will contaminate and pollute our water supplies. If this is true, just think what it will do to the local communities where this drilling is to occur! Past drilling has proven destroy the land, soil, and water around each site.
Please don't allow the easy money to destroy our land. The money is too good to be true because it is not true, it is not worth all the money in world for the damage this will cause.I submit to you that the NYC DEC letter should apply to all of NY. Ban this process in NYS.
Respectfully Submitted,
Robert D
-
Dear Gov. Paterson:
The NYC DEP statement, out today, makes it plain that Marcellus Shale hydro-fracking is too dangerous to be allowed in the NYC reservoir watershed. That should make it plain that hydro-fracking is also too dangerous to be allowed in the watersheds of the Susquehanna River or the Finger Lakes. The DSGEIS is totally inadequate, even if hyrdo-fracking were ultimately to be allowed. The City has done its job. The State has not. I urge you to catch up with the City.
Donald M - Dear Governor Paterson,
I am writing today to respectfully urge your office to withdraw the
draft Supplemental Generic Environmental Impact Statement (SGEIS) on
the Marcellus Shale drilling.I live in a community (Danby, NY) where essentially all the water is
supplied from private wells, because the population density is too
sparse to support a municipal water system. As you are no doubt
aware, a large number of communities within our state are similar to
mine.If the draft SGEIS allows hydrofracking to move forward, many of us
will have polluted drinking water within a few years -- an
environmental disaster that could rival the magnitude of Love Canal,
but with much wider-spread implications. With the present SGEIS,
residents will have no recourse to address the kind of environmental
problems that have been seen in every other state (from Texas to
Pennsylvania) where hydrofracking has gotten underway.I am sure that you do not want this sort of incident to occur on your
watch, nor to be remembered for bringing a new era of superfund
cleanup sites to the state. So I am hopeful that, even at this late
hour, you will still consider withdrawing the SGEIS and working for
something that will truly protect the health and well-being of our
state's residents.Thank you,
Greg N
-
Hydrofracking is the most serious environmental challenge we've ever faced. The more I study this, the scarier it becomes. (quote: Joe Heath, general counsel for the Onondaga Nation)
With a failure rate of up to 8 percent or more, horizontal drilling and hydrofracking pose an unacceptable risk to our limited supply of quality drinking water and the quality of our groundwater, lakes, aquifers and streams. NYS DEC draft Environmental Impact Statement (dSGEIS) is fatally flawed in its open support of drilling and its minimization and dismissal of risks. I understand the NYS DEC has concluded that hydrofracking is too dangerous for the Catskill/Delaware watershed. If this is true then do not allow it in my back yard either.
Hydrofracking will introduce hundreds of chemicals into our air and water, placing local residents, wildlife, critical agriculture and watershed areas at risk.
Communities where hydrofracking has occurred have experienced explosions, fires, spills and water pollution.
Local emergency services, including fire departments, EMS units and health care providers will be severely stressed and placed at considerable risk from accidents.
Gas drilling in NYS will involve construction of a massive infrastructure of wellheads, pipelines, compressing stations and processing centers spread across too much of Central and Upstate New York.
Infrastructure development will involve extensive clear-cutting, 24-hour noise and light pollution, huge increase of truck traffic on city streets and rural roads and bridges not designed nor equipped for it and the permanent altering of existing landscapes.
Compulsory integration of neighboring landowners to allow gas extraction against their wishes is an unlawful seizure of land, an unconstitutional abuse of power and will undermine property values.
I believe NYS DEC is seriously understaffed and underfunded and is in no position to regulate and effectively monitor drilling in NYS. Besides, natural gas is not clean energy but rather another polluting, non-renewable fossil fuel contributing to global warming.
We call upon you to put the people first by protecting our health, environment, communities and future by banning horizontal drilling and hydrofracking in New York State or at minimum having DEC completely eliminate the current dSGEIS and start over.
--
Lionel L
-
Dear Governor Paterson:
I have a vacation home in Sullivan County, not far from the Delaware. It is would be a terrible shame to permit the destruction of this splendid scenic area, which will inevitably occur with drilling. The current EIS should be rejected, as it fails to deal realistically with the many environmental problems that drilling will cause.
John L
- Governor Paterson,
I am writing to request that you withdraw the Draft Supplemental GEIS relevant to Hydrofracking activity.
My greatest concern (though by no means the only one) is that the Draft SGEIS really has no safe method of dealing with natural gas drilling wastewater and hydrofracking fluid. The wastewater from this process is unsafe, period. There is plenty of evidence to this effect. Hydrofracking activity has made a mess in Pennsylvania, with the city of Dimock, PA as a great example. Here in New York, the village of Cayuga Heights has already processed millions of gallons of wastewater straight into Lake Cayuga this year. It is still unknown what exactly was in that water.I am a small business owner who just moved to New York a couple of years ago, and relocated my business here from Massachusetts. I moved to Aurora New York, and purchased a small farm near lake Cayuga because this region is well suited for my business. My business relies on my horses, and for that I need acreage of safe grazing land, and clean water. There is a great deal of evidence demonstrating that Hydrofracking can be tremendously damaging to the water supplies in the areas around the gas drilling. I intend to fight this natural gas drilling in this area because it simply can’t be done with adequate safeguards.
As the governor of New York state, I hope you will recognize your responsibility to protect our state’s natural resources. Please withdraw the SGEIS, and institute a one year moratorium on hydrofracking, to allow more time to study the process and develop safer methods and protect our water supply.
I will vocally oppose hydrofracking in this region, but only you can really put a stop to these gas exploration companies before they damage our state like they have Pennsylvania. If the Marcellus Shale region becomes a polluted mess like other regions where hydrofracking has taken place, I will move my business and leave New York. I moved here because the Finger Lakes region is central to my customer base, has great natural resources, and is a great place to live. Please exercise your authority to help keep it that way!
Thank you very much for your time.
Best Regards,
Scott R -
Dear Governor Patterson,
I implore you to sign the coalition letter requesting that you withdraw the Supplemental Environmental Impact Statement for Marcellus Shale Horizontal Drilling and Hydrofracking. I find the dSGEIS to be wholly inadequate in most regards but particularly regarding the protection of both private and public water supplies and residential set-backs. As a former resident of West Virginia I have seen first-hand the devastation that it is possible from this type of drilling. Just as has been the case in Texas, WV, PA, and Wyoming the state (in this case the DEC) neither has the necessary resources or the experience with this sort of drilling to adequately safeguard thousands of horizontal hydrofrack wells. There is no way to undo this sort of environmental damage nor can residents or the state be adequately compensated for the contamination of their water, the loss of property value, or the resulting loss in property taxes.
Respectfully,
Jason B - Please do not allow gas exploration to contaminate my well in
Tompkins County NY. It is our only source of drinking water since
there is no municipal water available on my property. I, along with
all rural property owners who depend on wells, stand to lose all the
value of our property. The waters of the Finger lakes region are
precious to the economy of NY state! Any economic boom that drilling
brings will quickly be erased when property values drop. There is so
much evidence of the toxic nightmare that gas drilling could
cause...why would we take that chance? The fact that Haliburton will
not release the contents of the their hydrofracking liquid is reason
enough to stop gas exploration. Let us learn from Pennsylvania's
mistakes and not repeat them.The Department of Environmental Conservation's (DEC) own spill reports
document existing regulations have failed to prevent or to require the
clean up of hundreds of natural gas and oil drilling problems
involving fires, explosions, polluted drinking water wells, home
evacuations and massive drilling wastewater releases. DEC must not
issue new gas drilling permits until those regulatory concerns have
been fully resolved. That is why the Supplemental GEIS review must be
restarted.The draft SGEIS totally fails to propose a safe method of managing
natural gas drilling wastewater and hydrofracking fluid. It simply
leaves that task to localities. Improper management of natural gas
drilling wastewater has already caused massive toxic pollution
impacts. The SGEIS must solve this disposal problem before new
natural gas drilling permits are issued.DEC is woefully understaffed to cope with existing natural gas
drilling problems. Only 17 staff are available to regulate nearly
7,000 existing natural gas wells. New gas drilling permits must not
be issued until the SGEIS solves this problem.The SGEIS fails to address critical issues associated with strict
clean up liability, natural gas spill reporting, private right of
legal action, insurance coverage and unfunded local government
mandates. All those concerns must be addressed prior to the issuance
of new gas drilling permits. Thank you.Brian F
- Dear Governor Paterson:
I am the owner of 24-1/2 acres of land in Tioga County, New York. I have no oil or gas lease on my land.
I moved here from the Philadelphia, Pennsylvania area for the clean air, water, and beautiful land.Please immediately withdraw the draft Supplemental GEIS because it is utterly inadequate to safeguard New York's environment and public health.
The Department of Environmental Conservation's (DEC) own spill reports document that existing regulations have failed to prevent or to require the clean up of hundreds of natural gas and oil drilling problems involving fires, explosions, polluted drinking water wells, home evacuations and massive drilling wastewater releases. DEC must not issue new gas drilling permits until those regulatory concerns have been fully resolved. That is why the Supplemental GEIS review must be restarted.
The draft SGEIS totally fails to propose a safe method of managing natural gas drilling wastewater and hydrofracking fluid. It simply leaves that task to localities. Improper management of natural gas drilling wastewater has already caused massive toxic pollution impacts. The SGEIS must solve this disposal problem before new natural gas drilling permits are issued.
DEC is woefully understaffed to cope with existing natural gas drilling problems. Only 17 staff are available to regulate nearly 7,000 existing natural gas wells. New gas drilling permits must not be issued until the SGEIS solves this problem.
The SGEIS fails to address critical issues associated with strict clean up liability, natural gas spill reporting, private right of legal action, insurance coverage and unfunded local government mandates. All those concerns must be addressed prior to the issuance of new gas drilling permits.
I am very concerned about neighbor's with gas leases fouling my private water well. I am also concerned about compulsory integration.Governor, you have a duty to protect New York's natural resources and public health. That is why the draft SGEIS must be withdrawn.
Thank you for your assistance. Contact me if you have questions.
Sincerely,
Ann E - Dear Mr. Patterson,
I am writing to you as your constituent, to urge you to see to it that draft Supplemental GEIS is withdrawn to protect the health of New Yorkers' both upstate and downstate.
The Department of Environmental Conservation's own spill reports document that existing regulations have failed to prevent or to require the clean up of hundreds of natural gas and oil drilling problems. I am particularly concerned at the large numbers of these that concern polluted drinking water and the pollution of aquifers. New drilling permits need to be curtailed until there is proper regulation that ensures that our drinking water, and our children's drinking water (and their children's) will not be contaminated. This is why Supplemental GEIS should be restarted.
The SGEIS fails to address issues re: clean up liability, natural gas spill reporting, private right of legal action, insurance coverage and unfunded local government mandates. These concerns must be addressed before the state of NY should move forward on issuing new gas drilling permits.
Please act to withdraw SGEIS and re-start the process.
Sincerely,
Michael J
- Dear Governor Paterson:
I am writing to ask that you withdraw the draft Supplemental GEIS for Marcellus Shale Horizontal Drilling and Hydrofracking. A citizen of Ithaca, NY, I am greatly concerned about the possibliity of irreparable damage to the environment. As you know, the Finger Lakes region is prized for its natural beauty, and many of us live here because of our proximity to nature in its unspoiled state. The Marcellus Shale venture represents a grave threat: As you know, the DEC's own spill reports document that existing regulations have failed to prevent or require the cleanup of hundreds of natural gas and oil drilling problems involving fires, explosions, polluted drinking water wells, home evacuations and massive drilling wastewater releases. If these matters have not been resolved, the current review process must not go on but instead must be restarted.
Do you really want to risk the lives and health of upstate residents? Prevention is easier and less expensive than allowing the pollution to occur in the first place.
Thank you for your consideration.
Sincerely,
Maria D
- Dear Governor Patterson,
The best gift you could give New Yorkers this holiday is withdrawing
the dSGEIS. If does not address the concerns about gas drilling.
The costs are far greater than the benefits. Endangering our water
supplies will result in economic disaster for New York State. Water
is our greatest resource and this technology is not yet developed to a
point where we can count on safe drilling techniques. We do not have
the ability or resources to monitor the gas drilling companies. They
do not have the best interest of New Yorkers in mind. They are more
interested in the profits and not looking at the cost to the public.If you withdraw the dSGEIS and extend the moratorium then I will know
that you are really listening to the people of New York. I will then
vote for you in the next election and work for your reelection. I
want a Governor who takes this seriously and who is listening.Please consider this request seriously. We need you.
Sincerely,
Nancy S
- Governor Paterson,
I request you immediately withdraw the draft Supplemental GEIS because
it fails to safeguard New York's environment and public health. The
Department of Environmental Conservation's (DEC) own spill reports
document current regulations have failed to prevent hundreds of
natural gas and oil drilling problems involving fires, explosions,
polluted drinking water wells, home evacuations and massive drilling
wastewater releases. I request you mandate DEC not to issue new gas
drilling permits until those regulatory concerns have been fully
resolved. That is why the Supplemental GEIS review must be restarted.The draft SGEIS fails to mandate a safe method of managing natural gas
drilling wastewater and hydrofracking fluid. It simply leaves that
task to localities. Improper management of natural gas drilling
wastewater has already caused massive toxic pollution impacts. The
SGEIS must solve this disposal problem before new natural gas drilling
permits are issued.DEC is woefully understaffed to cope with existing natural gas
drilling problems. Only 17 staff are available to regulate nearly
7,000 existing natural gas wells. New gas drilling permits must not be
issued until the SGEIS solves this problem.The SGEIS fails to address critical issues associated with strict
clean up liability, natural gas spill reporting, private right of
legal action, insurance coverage and unfunded local government
mandates. All those concerns must be addressed prior to the issuance
of new gas drilling permits.Thank you in advance for your prompt response.
Dominic F
- Withdraw the draft SGEIS.
For once do something good for our state. - Dear Governor Paterson:
Please withdraw the draft SGEIS for the proposed drilling for natural gas in the Southern Tier of New York.
As we consider the promised benefits to the economies of the Southern Tier and New York State, it is essential that we consider also the potential adverse consequences to us and to our environment--adverse consequences which are known from similar drilling activities in our western states, but which the dSGEIS ignores (in the body of the document) or denies (in Appendix 2.) Thus, the dSGEIS projects a lopsided report: promising great potential benefits but implying relatively minimal costs and glossing over adverse consequences.
For example, the dSGEIS shows in great detail (in Chapters V, VI, VII) the industrial impacts of the proposed drilling on our rural, residential neighborhoods. Especially, it spells out the long list of toxic chemicals that would get forced into the earth under our homes and lands. Some of those chemicals would be reclaimed. However, much of those chemicals would stay there, leaving our part of the Southern Tier of New York State in a patchwork of uninhabitable toxic waste sites.
I believe New York City's recent demand to reject drilling in the region of its water supply supports my position that the proposed project is not safe--not for NYC, not for NYS either.
Until the proposal considers the true costs as well as the benefits, the drilling is not compatible with either our health or the economic health of New York State. Neither we nor New York State can afford to risk our futures on its incomplete promises.
Therefore, respectfully, the current dSGEIS should be withdrawn.
Sincerely,
Paul I
- Dear Governor Paterson,
I am writing to implore you to ensure that regulations are enacted that require gas companies to pay the true cost of their activities before any hydrofracturing is allowed in New York State.
Unless these companies are legally and effectively required to protect our air and water and to support the local infrastructure that they will strain, the citizens of New York will, in the end, pay these costs. We will pay in future taxes, in farm land and small businesses lost to polluted water, in lowered property values, in municipal services and communities strained by the influx of temporary, out-of-state workers. Some of us will pay with the personal tragedies of impaired health and unsafe well water. We will all pay by having to clean up, or live with, any damage that the gas companies are not legally required to prevent.
The agriculturally based economy of rural New York State is sustainable; any industrial "development" from gas drilling will be a transient economic phenomenon in comparison. When the Marcellus Shale is exhausted and the gas companies have come and gone, we must ensure that our wineries, dairy farms, and tourism are still viable. All could suffer irreparable damage if methods for the safe containment, handling, and removal of toxins and radioactivity from drilling wastewater and tailings are not devised and implemented. Municipal water treatment plants have neither the capacity nor the technology to deal with the backflow and produced water from hydrofractured gas wells; indeed the technology cannot be developed until the industry is required to disclose the exact contents of their fracking fluids.
I would also urge a careful reading of the letter dated 28 December 2009 from the members of the Public Employees Federation who work for the DEC. These are the people who will be in the front line of enforcement of regulations and damage control when or if hydrofracturing of the Marcellus Shale proceeds.
Sincerely,
Barbara U
-
Dear Governor Paterson.
I am extremely concerned about the impact of drilling in the Marcellus Shale on our region's agriculture and tourism industries, not to mention water quality and community quality of life in upstate New York. Although I understand the importance of increasing our state's energy independence, it is essential that there be more thorough scientific scrutiny of the technologies and materials involved in the mining process, and that strict regulations be developed to protect the public and the environment from the considerable risks involved.
I urge you to withdraw the draft SGEIS and to mandate a thorough analysis of the long-term environmental, economic and cultural impacts of drilling in our region. Thank you for your leadership on this critically important issue.
Joanna G
- Seasons Greetings:
I am a part time resident of Lake Huntington, NY. My primary residence is Brooklyn, NY.
I am requesting that you withdraw the current Marcellus Shale draft SGEIS in the hopes that you will withdraw it completely in the future.I support the suggestions of EPA Region 2 and appreciate the work of Administrator, Judith Enckr in safeguarding New York's environment and public health.
Very sincerely,
Randy F
- Dear Governor Paterson, As a resident of New York State, I have become extremely alarmed to learn of the draft Supplemental Generic Environmental Impact Statement with regard to hydraulic fracturing. After learning about the dSGEIS, I have come to believe that it is completely incapable of protecting New York State's environment and public health. Please withdraw the dSGEIS and do not allow ANY hydraulic fracturing in New York State. All the best, Marie D
- Governor Paterson,
I am writing to implore you to do your best to safeguard the future health of the environment of NY state, and it's inhabitants. Please support the withdrawl of the current Marcellus Shale dSGEIS, and help create a better version that will determine, implement and enforce measures more likely to be effective in protecting our water, our natural beauty, and our citizens. Can we not find a way to balance the needs of short term gain with those of our future well being? By providing Industry with effective long term guidance and oversight, I believe we can move more safely and responsibily into a healthy, balanced, sustainable future.Thank you.
Sincerely,
David R - Hi Walter -
just so you can keep count... I left a voice mail urging the governor to withdraw the plan and left comments through the dec website. Also sent the wonderful Ms. Enck a thank you note.Lisa
-
Dear Governor Paterson:
It is imperative that you immediately withdraw the DSGEIS or at least extend the public comment period for us to respond to the DEC's 800 plus page draft concerning horizontal high-volume hydrofracking in low permeable shale layers such as the Marcellus. Although an extension was given through Dec. 31, it has not been enough time for most of us to even begin to comprehend such a dense and detailed document! I have been able to read and digest the assessments made by Region2 US EPA; the National Resources Defense Council; Charles Geisler, Phd of Cornell University; the law firm Sive Paget & Riesel (Steven Barshov); and Rep. Maurice Hinchey. These confirm the conclusion I had already come to from months of consideration and investigation that the DSGEIS is not adequate and should not be accepted.
I believe that the comment period should last as long as it takes for the EPA to conduct a lengthy, thorough investigation into the safety of this new technology. Increasing reports are coming in from other states about the frequency of accidents and contamination. We are fortunate in learning from these and still having the opportunity to refuse or at least shape and restrict drilling development and limit its damages. The cumulative effects of this development are not fully known and largely ignored in the DSGEIS. The potential damage from many thousands of wells could be devastating.
It is a lot harder to control or stop something once it has already started, and we are simply not ready to deal with this potential invasion. My husband and I have been attending town and county meeting for a year and know first hand how unready we are. It is unfortunate that only in the last few months this issue has become really visible in the media---long after many people signed leases without real understanding or education on what they were getting into. Omission of information is almost tantamount to MISINFORMATION...there are lemon laws for bad auto purchase deals.....why not for bad leases? We have had no protection or advisement on this matter until it was too late for most of us. Many people would not have signed if they had known the differences between the old style vertical wells and the newer hydrofracked version, nor that they would become virtual tenants on their own land if they unknowingly signed away all their surface rights. I know, I know, "Buyer beware." But we are informed when dubious products of other nature are in the marketplace. I feel our government bears some responsibility in this.
I am also deeply disturbed that the gas and oil industry is exempt from the safe drinking water act, and can also release endless airborne pollutants while NY citizens are prohibited from burning their leaves because it "releases toxic substances into the air." An unbelievable inconsistency and irony!! This does not, of course, mean I wish I could burn my leaves, too!
This is too momentous a decision to rush into, with vast reaching and probably permanent implications for our area. To risk compromising and despoiling our beautiful state for the monetary gain of a few individuals and energy corporations at the expense of the rest of us is unacceptable. I do not want to live here if we are to be converted into an industrial wasteland, and I will not vote for anyone who supports our continuous dependence on burning fossil fuels. The notion that we must free ourselves from dependence on foreign oil and gas should be replaced by the conviction that we must free ourselves from the dependence on fossil fuels at all. The continued reversal of the carbon sequestration that took millions of years to accomplish (and is what makes our planet comfortably inhabitable in its current state) is madness. Are we going to try to extract every drop of gas and oil before we turn to other energy sources?? Please pursue the development of renewable and sustainable alternative energy sources such as geothermal, wind, and solar, and encourage an attitude of energy conservation instead.
I consider myself well informed, as I have spent hundreds of hours researching these issues online and in the media, and attended over 40 meetings and seminars across the state, including several by Mike Danaher , the industries themselves, and informational presentations by experts in the field. And I am also concerned about our economy, but I do not feel we can trade our long term future for the short term gains of a boom and bust industry. The current new technology simply isn't safe enough to use here, and even if it were, I am against it because of the inevitable fragmentation of our irreplaceable landscape and the economy supporting attributes it permanently possesses, of greater value in the long run.
I also deeply resent and reject the notion that only the NYC watershed should be protected from drilling. Yes, several million people live there, but upstate residents also need guarantees of clean water and air, and the agriculture here provides food for all of us (and depends on safe growing conditions). I want neither their nor our water, soil and air quality ruined.
When even the DEC Union is asking for more drilling study, it must be obvious that this issue should be taken off the fast track. The only people who are pushing for drilling to start soon are the ones whose pockets will be lined. It is hard to be assured of someone's good intentions when profit is so obviously the motive rather than service or people's welfare. And it is impossible to convince those for drilling of its infeasibility and dangers when their profit and salaries depend on not believing it.
All those who are against the drilling are not just people who cannot profit by it, but also those who do not wish to profit by it, even if they were in line to receive royalties and dividends. Please find a better way to help farmers keep their land than being reduced to signing away their land to the gas companies. We own 84 acres, and it is beyond price to us. We have refused to sign four times, but there are many around us who have. I do not wish to undergo compulsory integration against my will. While I'm at it, I think the percentage of participants in a spacing unit should be 100 percent, or at least restored to 80 rather than the current 60. And those who are forced should receive the highest rather than the lowest profit percentage in the spacing unit as compensation.
It will take leaders of extraordinary vision and conviction to lead us down a better path---please use all your powers to accomplish this. I am well aware of the political and economical leverage some of the most powerful industries in the world exercise, but you must find a way to hear the voice of the ordinary citizen. I have been disappointed and angered at the number of expensive retreats and seminars thrown by the gas industry for themselves and public officials that most of us could not afford to attend, time-wise, money-wise, or travel-wise. I understand Mr. McCabe expressed surprise that there were many people who were actively against drilling. Your administration needs to get out there and listen!
An ending quote:
When I am working on a problem, I never think about beauty , but when I have finished, if the solution is not beautiful, I know it is wrong."
Buckminster Fuller
Drilling for natural gas in New York State, particularly with horizontal high-volume hydraulic fracturing is neither a safe nor a beautiful solution to our budget and energy problems.
Respectfully,
Lynne B
-
Dear Governor Patterson:
It is with great urgency that I write to you to encourage you to not approve gas drilling in New York State. The very fact that so many people think it would be a bad idea to drill and endanger the NYC water supply means that it is dangerous for everyone, not just folks in New York City. I live in NYC and in Delaware County, so I have the interests of all of the state at heart.
The danger of polluting the water table, along with so many other threats, as well as with the fact that so many people are opposed to this and have articulated the difficulties, means that you need to act responsibly and immediately.
I know that we are in the most difficult of economic situations and that you, like so many other New Yorkers, see the lure of all the money the gas drilling industry is offering, but you cannot be swayed by short terms results. We must protect our environment and we need you to show real leadership on this.
Yours truly,
Professor Bella M -
Gov. Paterson,
As a concerned citizen living in Tompkins County I am voicing my opposition to the current draft SGEIS on gas drilling in the Marcellus Shale. Now even the EPA considers this document and the premises therein to be flawed and in need of serious further consideration. In addition, New York City should not receive any preferential treatment in regard to avoiding the dangers of fracking.
Please take the steps in your power to require further research and consideration of the the proposed drilling.
Thank you...Scott S
-
Honorable Governor Paterson:
I request that you withdraw the draft SGEIS. Today, please.
It is your job to safeguard New York's environment and public health, and this document does not do that!Sincerely,
Pam W
- Dear Governor Paterson,
Please withdraw the draft SGEIS.
Please use your power and authority to make positive change and protect our land and water, not only for you and I, but for the generations to come.Thank you, Simnia S
- Dear Governor Paterson,
Please withdraw the draft SGEIS. It is way too risky to move forward with
this type of drilling without a much more thorough investigation of the health
and environmental implications.If the gas companies have nothing to hide, then why do they require gag orders
when they pay off people that have had problems with their water, health, etc.?All gag orders should be removed from any agreements or compensations
within all drilling areas that use hydro-fracking before we can hope to uncover
the truth about the damages already done and the potential for future horror stories.
This should be required.Would you be willing to personally taste test water from these areas on a monthly
or even yearly basis. Not to mention all the other risks involved?I sincerely hope that you will push for much further investigation and
education for the areas and people at risk. The SGEIS needs to be trashed.Most sincerely,
Scott P - Dear Governor Paterson: I was born in PA and grew up in NJ. I spent many wonderful times at Lake George, attended races in Watkins Glen and visited NYC frequently on field trips in school. I now live in northern Nevada close to Lake Tahoe. I realize that NY state is financially in trouble, as we are out here, but please reconsider your decision to permit shale oil drilling. I remember how beautiful NY state was and would hate to have that ruined. Please keep in mind that when you deal with the devil (oil companies) you have to someday pay the piper--bad water, destroyed water sheds, ruined lives of farmers and urban residents. No amount of money is worth ruining a beautiful state. Think of what our world would be like if the scientists who created the atomic bomb decided that is was not in the best interests of mankind. I wish you could see how beautiful your state is. Please reconsider your decision and protect the people, wildlife, scenery and water of your state. Thank you.
Sincerely,
Deborah B - Dear Governor Patterson:
I am writing to urge you to withdraw the deeply flawed draft SGEIS for Marcellus Shale drilling. The denizens of New York State deserve real protection from the companies that would put profit before people's health and well-being.
I have no confidence that the companies eager to exploit the Marcellus Shale natural gas deposit could be trusted in any way. A couple of years ago I was contacted by one of their agents who asked me to lease the rights to drill on or under my land. He described the drilling as very benign environmentally because few wells would be required and because of using only water to break up the shale to release the gas. Thankfully, I didn't sign, but I feel that I was lied to and I am sympathetic to those people who did. Moreover, the problems in localities where this type of extraction has already been implemented strongly reinforces my concerns.
Given the extensive information that I have seen, I think that neither the DEC nor local municipalities are equipped to to deal with the likely problems from drilling. These problems include toxic chemicals in the wastewater from fracking, groundwater contamination, noise, and truck traffic.
Issues that must be addressed before any permits are issued include well-thought-out, effective, and legally-defensible provisions for liability for clean up, for monitoring and reporting chemical and gas spills, for enabling private citizens and property owners to have access legal remedies for damages inflicted, for requiring drilling companies and their associated firms to have adequate insurance coverage, and for making sure that local governments are not required to subsidize the drilling companies through requirements that they process wastewater, provide infrastructure, or the like.
Sincerely yours,
Gillbert G
- Dear Governor Paterson,
Concerned citizens requesting that you do what is needed to keep our water and air pure in the Finger Lakes Area.
Allowing drilling in the Marcellus Shale portion in New York State will have an adverse effect on quality of life in this area.
Business based on agriculture and tourism will be negatively effected by changes in quality of water and air.I am very concerned about what will happen if the drilling for natural gas is allowed to move ahead with the current technology.
It will not be the people that your office serves who will win from such a venture.Sincerely
Lydia E -
There has been a groundswell of opposition in the last few weeks to prevent this flawed draft from being approved. It is no coincidence that as more people learn of what is planned more opposition will come to the fore. We, New Yorkers, deserve a responsible, multifaceted and heavily debated draft. I personally believe that the drilling should not occur at all, however, at a minimum we deserve a binding agreement between our state and the private entities/drillers (looking to profit from this public resource) that ENSURES NO ENVIRONMENTAL OR WATER DEGRADATION OCCURS.
Please withdraw your support for the dSGEIS!
Thank you in Advance,
J.T. E - Dear Governor Patterson,
On Sunday December 27 we listened to Alan Chartock's radio interview of John A. Conrad, head of a geosciences consulting company. Mr. Conrad made a point of telling Dr. Chartock that he was representing no client but was there for the interview at his own expense. He seemed to be trying to make the point that if fracking is done according to current regulations, it is safe.
According to their website Mr. Conrad's company has "studied more than 200 waste and petroleum discharges requiring delineation, remediation and compliance, with regulatory requirements". Sounds like Mr. Conrad "has a dog in the hunt" and might just prosper from accidents involved with gas drilling.
Dr. Chartock's questions showed a lot of preparation and allowed Mr. Conrad the opportunity to let us know that if our human gas drillers and their employers follow current guidelines there will be no contamination of our precious water resources ; then admit many times there are dangers.
There are a few points that I wish Dr Chartock had also addressed:
1. There was no mention of incessant and long term noise.
2. There was no mention of light blazing in the night for months.
3. No mention of flares of noisome gas polluting the air.
4. If NYC can get the gas companies to promise not to drill in the Catskill watershed because of potential danger of contamination to the City's water supply for 9 million citizens , why cannot upstaters have the same protection? And is this not some admission of potential dangers?
5. What keeps the fracking fluids from following underground seams that angle to the surface or angle up to the water table of our clean and good water wells? We know that shale layers do not lie horizontally and in many places they come to the surface. Just look at road cuts through shale in the southern tier. We might see what looks like ground water oozing from seams in road cuts into ditches but how are we to tell that it is not fracking liquid finding its way to the watershed?
6. There was no mention of the miles and miles of rights-of-way that must be obtained to transmit the captured gas. Will the right-of-way be obtained by eminent domain? Do we want thirty foot strips cut through our woodlots, fields, gardens? I'll stand in front of the bulldozer myself.The natural gas locked up in the Marcellus shale will be available for a long time. Do we have to exploit this resource immediately? There was no technology to get at this gas efficiently 30 years ago. Perhaps if this gas becomes more valuable there will be safer ways to extract it in the future. Why not leave it in the ground for our future New Yorkers to find a way to safely and more harmlessly exploit? Greed for short term gain in banking and insurance has been shown to create economic catastrophe. Will greed for a short term gain in the gas fields ruin our precious way of life and water resources? Why take the chance?
Richard L
- Dear Governor Paterson,
I am writing to you once again to request that you withdraw the
NYSDEC's dSGEIS. I hope that you will take seriously the
recommendation of the 2000 members of the DEC's union of workers to
allow more time for comments on the dSGEIS and to hold off on what
would be a headlong rush into gas drilling before putting the proper
safeguards into effect.Yours,
Elisa E
- Dear Governor Paterson,
I am writing to you of a grave concern which I and many others have regarding the horizontal gas drilling (hydrofracking) proposed for the Marcellus Shale.
I am asking you to please, please, please rescind the dSGEIS so that (at the very least) additional safety measures to protect us and our environment and accountability of the companies doing the drilling can be put in place.
I firmly believe that:
1. The use of fresh water for this procedure is a unwarranted use of our most precious natural resource.
2. The treatment/disposal of the contaminated water has not been adequately addressed.
3. The disposition of the naturally occurring radioactivity raised from within the shale as part of the drilling process has not been adequately addressed.
4. The protection of our drinking water (including those of us who have our own wells) has not been adequately addressed.
5. All the chemicals which are mixed with our fresh water as part of the fracking process are not known. A MSDS sheet should include *all* chemicals. The companies initiating this process must not be allowed to hide behind the word "proprietary".
6. The DEC is not equipped to police this additional drilling as it is apparent that they are already understaffed and are unable to handle current oil and gas drilling issues in this state.
7. The economy of New York State depends in large part on travel and tourism. Hydrofracking will substitute a short "economic boon" for the benefits this state already enjoys through travel and tourism.
8. There is not enough accountability placed on the companies doing the drilling - who will pay for disposal of wastewater, radioactivity, contaminated wells, lowered property values and the destruction of our roads and bridges?Your commercial says you are "*for the people*". Please be here for us now and prevent this process from occurring as it stands right now.
Sincerely,
Sara J - Dear Governor Paterson,
I am sending this email as a concerned resident of New York to urge you to immediately withdraw the draft Supplemental GEIS. The draft is utterly inadequate to safeguard New York's environment and public health. Our pure land and water are resources that, if protected and used sustainably, will support us, even through an energy crisis, for generations to come. If we go forward with gas drilling now, without adequate regulations, we risk destroying these resources permanently, and for what? Enough natural gas to support inflated American consumption for maybe only a few years? Five at best? How does this pittance of a benefit outweigh the very real impending risks of moving forward too soon?
As you have probably already heard from many concerned citizens, the Department of Environmental Conservation's (DEC) own spill reports document that existing regulations have failed to prevent or to require the clean up of hundreds of natural gas and oil drilling problems involving fires, explosions, polluted drinking water wells, home evacuations and massive drilling wastewater releases. How can the DEC issue new gas drilling permits when these regulatory concerns are still unresolved. If we are ever going to drill in New York (and I do have serious doubts that this could ever be a good idea), we need, at the very least, to take the time to draft a Supplemental GEIS that works. We need to start over.
One of the most serious problems with the draft SGEIS is that it fails to propose a safe method of managing natural gas drilling wastewater and hydrofracking fluid. It simply leaves that task to localities. Improper management of natural gas drilling wastewater has already caused massive toxic pollution impacts. The SGEIS must solve this disposal problem before new natural gas drilling permits are issued.
Also, DEC is woefully understaffed to cope with existing natural gas drilling problems. Only 17 staff are available to regulate nearly 7,000 existing natural gas wells. New gas drilling permits must not be issued until the SGEIS solves this problem.
The SGEIS fails to address critical issues associated with strict clean up liability, natural gas spill reporting, private right of legal action, insurance coverage and unfunded local government mandates. All those concerns must be addressed prior to the issuance of new gas drilling permits.
Again, I urge you to consider the gravity of these concerns and withdraw the draft Supplemental GEIS immediately.
Thank you for your attention and your time,
Olofron P
- Govenor Patterson:
Please withdraw the SGEIS as relates to the Marcellus Shale hydrofracture.We in upstate NY have very strong concerns relating to drinking water contamination and enviromental damages probable from shale fracturing.
Robert and Rebecca F
- Dear Governor Patterson,
Please reject the current draft of the dSGIS and protect the state of New
York from certain and permanent degradation. In this time of economic
hardship, the lure of a drilling boom in the Marcellus shale is very
great. Nonetheless, this would be a disaster for the state, economically
and otherwise, and the false lure must be rejected.These drilling techniques are known to be unsafe and have destroyed many
communities in Texas and Pennsylvania. The only reason that the drilling
companies can obscure this fact is because of the legalized secrecy
currently permitted around their fracking fluid constituents, which makes
it almost impossible to hold them responsible for their effects. This
must not be allowed in New York. The Union of DEC employees, the EPA
office for region 2, the City of New York, and many other responsible
voices have all concluded that the environmental costs of proceeding with
the current techniques and regulatory structure will be enormous, and the
safeguards in place are wholly inadequate to protect us. Proceeding
safely will require at least another year of study, maybe more! We must
wait for the EPA analysis on the hydro-fracturing techniques to be
completed, allowing DEC to fully incorporate those findings into their
regulatory structure, and increasing the regulatory personnel overseeing
the process. Less damaging and less environmentally devastating
techniques must be fully evaluated.Please do the right thing for the state of New York, which is entrusted to
your care. Protect our watersheds and our communities and the quality of
life in this state. It may well be that these resources can be harvested
safely, but not if we proceed recklessly, ignoring known hazards, and
giving the drilling industry free-reign to exploit them and then leave the
permanent degradation of New York watersheds for us to deal with as we
might through untold future generations. The contamination of our
groundwater systems under the current plan would be widespread and
irrevocable and would create a permanent economic burden to the state!Sincerely,
Jonathan C
-
Dear Governor Paterson,
We are organic vegetable farmers in Lodi, NY, in the heart of the
Finger Lakes region.
We are deeply concerned about the potential environmental impacts from
hydrofracking drilling in the Marcellus Shale. They are too numerous
to list here, but the impacts that have occurred in the Rocky Mountain
states from gas drilling are examples that we would rather not live
with in our region. Drilling in Pennsylvania has been fraught with
similar problems.
We want to encourage you to withdraw the draft Supplemental GEIS
on Marcellus Shale horizontal hydrofracking that is wholly
inadequate to insure that this
practice would be safely regulated in New York State.
Thank you for your time and support in this effort to protect the
environment and water resources of our region.Sincerely,
Lou J and Robin O
-
The SGEIS draft for Marcellus Shale Horizontal Drilling and Hydrofracking fails to safeguard New York's environmental and public health, leaving us vulnerable to a process that would threaten our precious water supply with hazardous toxins, damage our transportation infrastructure, and produce massive amounts of waste water and hydrofracking fluid. When NYC's DEP calls on state officials to ban natural gas drilling in the Catskills watershed, because it would pose too great a risk to NYC's upstate drinking water system, we should extend that ban throughout the NYS as posing too great a risk to all of our drinking water systems, be they filtered or not.
We should send the SGEIS draft and the natural gas producers back to the drawing board with directives that we will not sell out our drinking water nor the beauty of our landscape to such a damaging industrial development.
Ann V
- Dear Governor Patterson:
Please withdraw the draft SGEIS immediately. Do not allow this
drilling to happen. Lets invest in the future by doing the right thing
now.Sincerely,
Elizabeth C - Please withdraw the draft SGEIS.
Loretta H
- Dear Governor Paterson,
I implore you to withdraw the draft SGEIS.
The promise of money is, understandably, most tempting to those of us
who are landowners. However, the threat of contaminated water and land
greatly overshadows the benefits of this money. Our children need safe
communities in which to live.
Thank you,
Poppy S - To Governor Paterson:
I am writing to let you know of my concern about the draft Environmental Impact Statement put out by the DEC in September and to ask that you remove it from consideration in its present form.
I have been reading and listening and have become increasingly worried. There seem to be too few safeguards for people and the environment. The Statement needs more specificity: Who is to regulate the drilling operations on the ground? Are the fluids industrial waste or hazardous waste, and how will they be contained and then treated? Why does the Statement not address the cumulative effect of the thousands of proposed wells and the thousands of miles of new pipelines and roads?
The document also needs to become a work based on and grounded in science. We cannot afford a compromise document that includes political positions to satisfy everyone. The Statement has little validity without including the science, which is well-known. The DEC has records available--in fact all the data compiled by
in Thompkins County used those records to document spills and other calamities. The most basic flaw is that proposed drilling would not need to comply w/ clean water standards. Until we remove that political ploy demanded by the energy companies themselves, it will be impossible to merely tweak the current statement to conform to science.
Therefore, I ask you to remove this draft EIS. It needs to address the omissions and inadequecies that would turn our lovely state into a toxic site. We do not want to poison our residents nor to turn them into refugees.
Thank you for doing the right thing.
Janet I
- Dear Governor Patterson,
As a longtime resident of upstate New York, I implore you to withdraw the Draft SGEIS in order to prevent the pollution of our water resources. As citizens of this state, our first responsibility is to be good custodians of the environment and our vital resources. We must not harm the essential elements necessary for life, and water is the most basic of these. We must make wise choices, and so I do hope you will agree to end the use of hydrofracking to extract gas. The ends will not justify the means!
Thank you.
Sincerely,
Pamela W. - Dear Gov. Patterson,
Please use this last "day of grace" to withdraw the dSGEIS. We do not get our water from the NYC watershed but we are no less deserving of having it protected. I believe if we end these unjust wars in Iraq and Afghanistan we may have resources to spend on education and alternative energy. The wars are leaving all our children and grandchildren behind. New York cannot afford these wars morally or financially but we should not be tempted in our straits to risk our precious environment because corporations who spend millions to influence politics are so greedy and arrogant. It isn't necessary to destroy innocents and villages in Afghanistan to protect people any more than it is necessary to trash our environment to meet our energy needs. There has to be a kinder gentler way. If you come out strong for peace and the environment it will long be remembered. Best wishes to you and yours in the New Year!For peace and justice,
Mark S
- Dear Governor Paterson:
After reading all the information available on the new gas drilling technologies and Marcellus Shale, I've come to the conclusion that to approve drilling at this time poses an extreme risk for the state of New York and its citizens. The risk of contaimated water resources must be taken seriously as it could theaten human health as well as undermine many essential economic sectors such as tourism and agriculture.
I urge you to withdraw the draft SGEIS so that further data can be gathered and appropriate regulator measures can be implemented to protect New Yorkers. Quite a lot of recent data has come to light which suggests that this drilling technique does indeed lead to contamination of water resources. Furthermore, we now know that the quantities of water and chemicals that are left in this wells greatly exceeds the initial reports. There are far too many unknows at this point to be able to accurately predict the fate of these large amounts of carcinogens and other toxins.
Please act in the intersts of our children and those of us who would like to continue to live health lives in New York and withdraw this SGEIS. This will allow time for the EPA and other agencies to conduct research and protect our drinking water.
Sincerely,
Laurie D
- Hello Governor Patterson,
My family and friends are very worried about the proposed drilling and disruptions of residential land right near us in the Ithaca area - if that happens, we know that the risk of introducing toxins in the drinking water for hundreds of thousands of people is great. The benefit to the oil industry will be so temporary and small, compared to the long period of lasting destruction to our land for this and future generations. Please do what you can to stop this!
Thanks so much,
Susan H
- I do not feel that NY should allow any fracking of the gas reserves until it can guarantee that it will not affect the environment in any way.
Norman V
- Dear Governor Paterson,
I'm writing to express my concern over the very inadequate protection to our natural environment provided for by the draft SGEIS. Please see that this draft is withdrawn and that the agencies responsible do, in fact, become more responsible for protection of our water and air quality.
Thank you for all your work on the public's behalf.
Sincerely,Karen M
- Dear Governor Paterson
As a resident of New York state, I urge you to please withdraw the draft SGEIS.
Thankyou for your attention on this matter.Jayne D
- Dear Governor Paterson,
I urge you to comply with the EPA's recommendations that environmental concerns be thoroughly examined in regard to the Marcellus Shale. The DEC proposal obviously needs major overhaul. I am a homeowner who lives in an area that will be overwhelmingly impacted by hydrofracking, and I do not believe that it will be a positive outcome for myself, my neighbors, or the region. I urge you instead to invest in alternative energies such as wind and solar. We must not ruin our water supply, our tourist industry, and our lives through this short-sighted greed.
Sincerely,
Mary B
- WITHDRAW THE DRAFT OF SGEIS
Harry S
- I love to see my government being responsible and really looking out for the environment in which we all live! Thanks you for your big part on helping this Natural gas drilling move forward more responsibly!
--
Raylene L - Honorable Governor Paterson:
As a resident of Tompkins County, I strongly urge you to withdraw the
Marcellus Shale draft SGEIS. As you are aware, Region 2 of the U. S.
Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has requested that the DEC make
major, fundamental revisions to its proposal. I would like to draw your
attention to the strong language used by Region 2 Administrator Judith
Enck -"While protecting the New York City watershed is important because of the
millions of New Yorkers who rely on this drinking water supply, we also
have concerns about water quality impacts throughout the state. Just
because fewer people rely on upstate water sources does not imply that
these supplies are not also worthy of protection.""In conclusion, EPA believes that NYSDEC has prepared an informative
dSGEIS on hydrologic fracturing of the Marcellus Shale. However, we have
concerns regarding potential impacts to human health and the environment
that we believe warrant further scientific and regulatory analysis. Of
particular concern to EPA are issues involving water supply, water
quality, wastewater treatment operations, local and regional air quality,
management of naturally occurring radioactive materials disturbed during
drilling, cumulative environmental impacts, and the New York City
watershed. EPA recommends that these concerns be addressed and essential
environmental protection measures established prior to the completion of
the SEQRA process (emphasis added).While economic development in the state is certainly an important concern,
I believe that approving hydrofracturing at this time would irresponsibly
endanger the health of millions of New Yorkers and jeopardize more
responsible, high-tech, green-energy based economic development in Central
New York in the future.Thank you for your attention to this critical matter.
Dan G
- Dear Governor Patterson,
I am writing today to ask that you withdraw the draft SGEIS related to the Marcellus Shale gas drilling operations. DEC documentation has shown that current regulatory instruments and their staffing levels are inadequate for policing current gas drilling operations which have resulted in at least 270 spills and contaminated sites. Given the projected exponential workload increase that the hydraulic fracturing drilling operations would bring, we cannot allow it to be conducted at this time, as the DEC and our regulatory system are not prepared.
I live in Danby, where there are many proposed wells. In our village, we have what is called the Danby Divide from which water flows to 2 watersheds - South to the Susquehanna, which ultimately feeds into the Chesepeake. North of us the water flows into Cayuga Lake. I ask that the draft SGEIS be withdrawn not only for the health and wellbeing of our own environment, but also for our many neighbors downstream.
Water and clean air are basic life essentials and to destroy them is to destroy life. This is not the legacy that we should leave behind us.
Respectfully,
Joey D
- Governor Paterson: withdraw the draft SGEIS for the Marcellus Shale.
thank you,
Andrea H - I left a message asking for the withdrawal of the Marcellus Shale draft SGEIS. Thanks...
--
C.J. R - Honorable Governor Paterson,
For the health of New York State, and the health of the natural world,
PLEASE WITHDRAW the draft Supplemental GEIS for Marcellus shale
production. The Statement requires extensive testing in an industry
that requires more regulation; a standard is to be set, and the voice
of our state is overwhelmingly "You can't drink natural gas[or
unspecified frac]!!" Thank you.Adam T
- Dear Governor Paterson:
I am small land owner in Deposit, NY. I seek assurances from the state that hydro-fracturing gas drilling will not pollute my water and air.
While I understand the impulse or my neighbors who own large parcels of land to find revenue from gas-drilling, I am stunned by the lack of protection the DEC has planned for me, the small land owner.
There needs to be a Citizens Bill of Rights against pollution to my property, air, and water. While the Sup GEIS does deal with some issues, it mostly glosses over the things that can affect me directly, and individually.
Please withdraw the Sup GEIS, and do something to help.
* let my local heath board know what chemicals are being used in my back yard
* provide transparent testing of my water so i am constantly sure everything is ok
* provide testing to county lakes and streams
* provide hearings and citizen impact studies to let me weigh in on how much traffic and noise and ozone can be created in my neighborhood.
* I don't trust 2 sheets of plastic in an open pit. Would you? Who will test that it is working?
* assure me that the DEC has enough monitors to deal with the issue.
* assure me that there will be no surface, or underground contamination, now or in the future.
* after the wells are sealed, what is still down there?
* how long will the cement casings protect the water table? 5 years? 10 years? 100 years?
* what about my children's children?The Sub GEIS says they can drill 600 feet from a body of water. Really?! 600 feet from a lake, on a 45 degree back above the water? The land has been leased, now I am frightened.
How can there be laws that make me buy a septic so clean that my effluent is drinkable, that I can not burn my trash, that I can not disturb my neighbor with too much noise, yet there is nothing in local law to prevent my neighbor doing this.
Please help.
Give me protection.
Thank you,
tom m - Governor Paterson -
Please heed the call from the NYS DEC's professionals' Union, the EPA, and the thousands of concerned citizens who have contacted you to express their concern about the potential for irreparable damage from "hydro-fracking" drilling for gas in the Marcellus Shale.
The DEC document goes nowhere near as far as it must to protect our environment. As things stand, the costs to our State and its municipalities of allowing such drilling and all the destructive activities involved in it, will be staggering and will grossly outweigh any potential financial benefits. Energy self-sufficiency is a laudable goal, but getting there by trashing our water, air, and roads is NOT a good idea.
Please, wait for more research from the EPA. Encourage programs at State Universities (Cornell, for instance) to explore better ways of extracting the gas. Wait for the DEC to develop the staff, technologies, and sophistication needed to properly handle this environmentally dangerous process.
PLEASE WITHDRAW THE MARCELLUS DRILLING DGEIS!
Thank you.
Ken D
- Dear Governor Paterson:
I urge you to consider withdrawing the draft regulations governing gas drilling in NYS, for a time long enough for the DEC to respond to the serious concerns that citizens and agencies have written about lately. The biggest concern is the long-range impact of gas drilling on New York State. Now that the EPA has expressed it's reservations, I think it would be best for you to withdraw these draft regulations. Thank you for your consideration.
Sincerely, Katherine H
- Dear Governor Patterson,
I am a resident of a rural area in Cortland County. I am writing to voice my opinion that the Marcellus Shale dSGEIS, as currently written, does not adequately address the potential negative impacts of hydrofracture gas drilling. I am in favor of harvesting this vast energy resource, but not at the expense of the private drinking wells of myself, or other rural land owners. I am not confident that the proposed regulatory structures will be adequate to prevent possible contamination, or even destruction, of my private drinking water supply. What will we gain as a society if we do indeed bring all this trapped gas to market, but bring harm or destruction to an equally, if not more so, important resource, that being water, in the process?
I kindly ask that you instruct the DEC to withdraw the dSGEIS and devote more time and attention to formulating a new one, one which better addresses the protection of water quality associated with hydrofacture gas drilling.
As I go to my kitchen sink and draw a nice glass of pure water, I thank you.
Richard L
- Dear Governor Patterson:
Please immediately withdraw the current SGEIS guidelines per the recent EPA request. There is no room for sloppy regulations when our water, air and other resources are at stake. We look for both the DEC and the natural gas industry to show unmitigated goodwill by wholeheartedly addressing the widely reported concerns of Upstate New Yorkers.
Thank you for doing the right thing.
Sincerely,
Craig and Linda C - Dear Governor,
Now that EPA has reviewed the material and deems the hydrologic fracturing of the Marcellus Shale of great concern environmentally and otherwise I am requesting you and pleading you to withdraw the draft. This whole approach to drill is such an incredible pending disaster for our area not only NY State but for the planet. Please withdraw the draft and support alternative sources of energy.
Thank you,
Cheryl B - The EPA has now raised a host of serious concerns about extracting gas
from the Marcellus Shale, which deeply concern me as a resident of the
area that would be affected. It is time to withdraw the draft SGEIS.Jim R
-
Hon. Governor,
By this time, you should be in receipt of the Geneva City Council's unanimously endorsed position regarding the SEQRA review of the Marcellus Shale Natural Gas Drilling project. In that document, we encouraged you to exercise your right to reject the draft document under review by NYDEC and to instead require a full and comprehensive SEQRA analysis that would revisit and analyze in further depth the anticipated impacts on issues such as water quality, waterwater plant treatment operations, and the like.As the operator of a major industrial-capacity wastewater treatment plant at the north end of the largest of our wonderful Finger Lakes, we take our stewardship seriously and we understand the value of our Seneca Lake and the Finger Lakes region as a whole to both the environmental and fiscal health of Upstate New York.
The Marcellus shale drilling proposal, as with the recently abandoned ethanol production facility at the former US Army Depot on Seneca Lake's east shore, represents a severe exploitation of existing natural resources in the quest for highly profitable energy acquisition. But the profit to the drilling companies is made possible by the sacrifices of the less fortunate in our area who suffer the environmental consequences of improperly regulated and monitored efforts.
I encourage you to follow the lead of Ms. Judith Erick, of the EpA in requiring a full scale review of this proposal, particularly as it relates to the controversial and suspiciously-exempted practice of 'hydro-fracking.' The byproducts of such require special treatment and special disposal, the full extent of which we are not even sure we fully understand. As the potential local recipients of such waste, we encourage you to protect our interests (clean water, clean air, and the stability of our underground geology, particularly potentially radioactive materials as reported) by rejecting the DEC draft as woefully inadequate. In addition, I strongly encourage you to consider creating a dedicated clean up fund, paid for by the companies seeking these permits, to cover the costs of any long term damage their efforts cause. Of course, as is the case in most environmental catastrophes, cleaning up a mistake should never be seen as a substitute for avoiding it altogether.
In that vein, I do hope you will seriously consider these suggestions and exercise your right to protect these regional assets.
My best to you in this New Year,
Jacqueline A - Dear Governor Paterson,
Please withdraw the dSGEIS now. It is inadequate to protect the natural resources and environment and public health of New York.
M. B - Governor Patterson,
Please withdraw the draft SGEIS immediately! We value above all else our clean water and air here in update New York. Keep our state environmentally whole!
Thanks,
Maureen R - To Whom this may concern,
Please withdrawl the draft SGEIS. We are young home owners in rural upstate ny. we have kids to raise. we cannot afford to put our health at risk.
Emma M - As a signatory to the petition asking that you withdraw the Marcellus Shale draft SGEIS, I am also writing you directly to ask again that you do so and with detail.
The many Towns within the Shale area are ill-equipped to manage the enormous impacts such activity will bring among the greatest of which will be economic. The State must do an economic impact study on Marcellus Shale drilling.
With respect to the Town of Newfield, Tompkins County:
1. We are not staffed adequately to deal with such activity nor do we have the financial resources to be so and yet 32% of our Town's land is under lease.
2. We do not have the financial resources to monitor our municipal wells with the adequate and regular frequency such activity will require over the 15 to 20 year life of extraction and neither do those very many more home owners in the Town who depend on their own wells for water.
3. We have not been able to write effective road use permitting ordinances with bonding requirements for such activity, which we know will be above and beyond our roads' capacities to withstand, because we cannot segregate an industry for such permitting and enforcement. This leaves us holding the bill for repairing our roads at Town taxpayer expense. This is completely unacceptable. It cannot and will not stand. We will be fierce on this.
4. Pollution and ozone from compressors used over the life of a well extraction especially in our valleys. We will be fierce on this.
5. Imperiled real estate values that will compromise real assessments and our tax base. To date there has been no discussion on the topic at the State level. What little has been considered is based on conjecture and inexact information...to wit, nobody knows. Our property owners are not to be on the bad end of a good deal for the very few who will reap the benefits. They and the Town will be fierce on this.
6. We have worked long and hard over very many years to make tourism the lovely cash cow that it is to our economy across the region. The impact of Marcellus drilling on that very well-made and very sustainable industry has not been addressed. Marcellus Shale drilling is a short-term activity with great potential for expensive long-term repair.The DEC is charged with environmental impacts and will be dealing with these in the next months. I ask that you withdraw the dSGEIS so that they might do their work more completely. I am also asking that you order a study of net economic impact of gas drilling in the Marcellus area.
Thank you for your consideration.
Richard D
- In accordance with the request for public comment on the draft SGEIS I have submitted the attached letter to Commissioner Grannis with 9 recommendations including prohibiting drilling near primary aquifers or Indian reservations, mandating "green completions" that eliminate venting and flaring, and requiring drilling and fracking companies to post bond for damages due to contamination of air, water or soil, Yet even if these recommendations and those of people more expert than I were all to be followed, there are systemic problems that cannot be resolved by a patchwork approach. That is why I am writing to you.
Severe and sometimes life-threatening incidents have occurred in other states where high-pressure, horizontal hydraulic fracturing of shale or tight sandstone has taken place. For example, chemicals such as benzene, volatile organic compounds and nitrous oxides have been released into the air. The first is carcinogenic; the combination of the last two in the presence of sunlight causes ground-level ozone which destroys lung tissue. Diesel exhaust, whether from thousands of truck trips that will occur per well pad or from compressors running 24/7, causes illness ranging from asthma to cancer. Hexavalent chromium or compounds like sodium dichromate in which it occurs have led to cancer in Hinkley, California, Midland, Texas, and Iraq. Chrome 6 is an anti-corrosive agent used in drilling.
Water contamination has occurred as a result of a variety of processes including seismic testing on a neighbor's property here in Chemung County, drilling and/or fracking in Dimock, PA, storing toxic waste from an evaporation pit in leaky plastic in Hickory, PA, and from an explosion in Bainbridge Township, Ohio. These examples are just the tip of the iceberg.
Sadly, the dSGEIS does not address the cumulative effect of such incidents from thousands of wells that will be drilled in the Souther Tier, nor does it assess health effects on human beings or livestock. Likewise it does not detail the negative effects upon agriculture, vineyards, forests, individual property and community well being, be it because of noise, traffic, pollution, compulsory integration pitting neighbor against neighbor, or stress on services such as fire, police, schools, hospitals, etc.
Therefore I respectfully request that you withdraw the dSGEIS, resume the moratorium, and wait for results of the EPA's study to determine whether high-volume, horizontal hydraulic fracturing can be done safely, and if so, how. Meanwhile please push conservation and safe energy alternatives such as solar, wind, biomass (but not corn for ethanol), geothermal and tidal. These would boost the economy and provide clean, long-term jobs. That's the kind of leadership you have exhibited in other areas which would not only help New York but also preserve the planet.
Thank you for your consideration.
Sincerely,
Susan M
- Dear Governor Patterson,
I am writing to ask you to delay any drilling for gas in the Marcellus Shale deposit in New York until important questions of the safety of the environment are completely answered. The best way to do this is to wait until the EPA water quality report is completed and NYS residents can find out what the environmental dangers really are. The DEC report is seriously flawed because it does not take into account the cost and complexities of disposal of the dangerous waste water that will result from fracking. This is very similar to the nuclear energy industry claiming the nuclear energy is very cheap because they do not take into account the so far unsolvable problem of disposal of the nuclear waster. NYC and some other cities have reservoirs that bring water to their citizens, but most of upstate NY citizens use wells - some fairly shallow and some very deep - for their safe drinking water. Even one error in disposal of waste fracking water by the oil companies would be disastrous to our lakes, streams, wells and other water supplies. As everyone knows, oil companies are very cavalier about the safety and disposal of dangerous chemicals and the citizens of NY cannot and should not be held hostage to any accidents or mistakes. Our roads, air and water quality, and our whole ecosystems are at risk. The problem is not so much with the drilling, but with the disposal of the fracking water and chemicals and the escape of gas and radon into buildings and wells - especially since the oil companies refuse to reveal exactly what they are putting down into the gas wells. New York can afford to wait for the EPA (I know we are in terrible financial straights) because the alternative is too dangerous to contemplate. Especially since DEC does not have either the manpower or the specific know how to oversee all the wells that the oil companies plan to drill. It will talk many months and much money and equipment before DEC is even beginning to be ready to do the oversight that will be required.
Another aspect of this that is very disturbing to me is that the Cargill Salt Mine in Lansing, NY is located JUST UNDER the Marcellus Shale deposit. The entrance shaft to the mine goes through the Marcellus shale and gas from disturbing that small bit of shale collects in the shaft and is removed with large fans. Cargill and the oil company have decided it is safe to drill within 660 feet of the mine (above it in most places but not always) and the company will notify Cargill when they are about to frack so the mine can be cleared of personnel. 660 feet is about the lenght of a block - somehow this does not seem like a safe distance. And then, when the shale is fractured, extra gas will escape through small fissures and could fill the mine slowly and a spark could blow the whole mine up. The mine tunnels go for a mile or more in many directions, even under Cayuga Lake to the west shore properties as well as under the town and village of Lansing. You are not familiar with Central New York and its water supplies, but Cayuga Lake has a watershed of over 700 SQUARE MILES and all the surface water from that area of land ends up in Cayuga Lake. The danger of a single spill - which is not too remote in such a large area - would be devastating to all the people who depend on the Lake for drinking water, etc. If the Catskill region is considered to be off limits to drilling because of the water contamination danger, surely the Finger Lakes are an equally sensitive area that should also be off limits to drilling. The danger is just too great.
Let Pennsylvania and the other states ruin their environments by allowing fracking to occur without proper safeguards. We can wait for the EPA report and then formulate a much better set of regulations - with proper oversight - that will protect the citizens of NY. Please declare a moratorium on drilling until the safety of the people and environment of NY is better assured.
Thank you.
Joan L
- Dear Governor Patterson,
As a citizen of the Finger Lakes area of upstate NY, I implore you to withdraw the Marcellus Shale draft SGEIS. Our natural resources are our most valuable and irreplaceable commodities; if we allow drilling to proceed without adequate study of the impact and without appropriate safeguards, we may be setting up a situation that our children -as well as other generations to come - will have to suffer with for the rest of their lives.
Please consider slowing this process to the extent that safe and appropriate measures can be taken to avoid environmental damage. Thanks very much for your consideration.
Judith C
- Dear Governor Paterson,
I am a concerned citizen requesting that you do what is needed to stop hydrofracking in the Finger Lakes Area.
Allowing this procedure in the Marcellus Shale portion in New York State will have an adverse effect on the quality of life in this beautiful area.
Businesses, farming, and tourism will all be negatively effected by the degradation of our water and air.The people that your office serves will not be the people who benefit from such a venture.
I am very concerned about what will happen if the drilling for natural gas is allowed to move ahead with the current technology.Sincerely
Daniel B - Governor Paterson
Please DO NOT allow hydro fracking of the Marcellus Shale in New York State at least until the EPA has finished its report and the State and others have had time to thoroughly review it.
We live in the area affected and are very concerned -- we are even considering leaving the state if this kind of drilling comes to our area in Tompkins County.
In particular I do not feel the DEC's SGEIS deals adequately with the disposition of the waste, some of which is likely to be radioactive. Turning responsibility for this over to local water treatment plants is absurd--especially since the drilling companies don't have to tell them what the waste contains! And few if any existing water treatment plants are designed for removing radioactive contaminants or the extremely toxic chemicals that are to be used. And even if these substances are removed, what happens to them then? What provisions have been made to store them safely in places where they won't eventually corrode their containers and leak out? How can we be assured that radioactive materials will be stored safely when this problem remains unresolved even for nuclear power plants? We don't think the SGEIS deals adequately with these concerns.In short, this appears to be an issue where the rush for quick financial gain threatens to overwhelm attention to long term effects.
We need instead to focus this kind of energy on harnessing wind, wave and solar energy that is unlimited and will not involve such severe damage to our environment. This would be a much more constructive way to revitalize our economy and ensure a future for our children and grandchildren.Frank B
- Governor Patterson:
I write to urge you to delay the implementation of the draft SEGIS and my comments below say why.
*The Marcellus Shale and some further thoughts*
*December 31, 2009*
The Marcellus shale formation and its natural gas have become major assets to New York State and its citizens. I discuss three infrequently mentioned issues below, issues that may be interconnected, and then I pose a possible solution. The three are: the pace of development; the financial stability and moral rectitude of the well drilling companies, and funding the necessary regulations by the State.
*The Pace of development:*
Reading the papers and the web reminds one of the land rushes of the 1800s when territories were opened to all; in our case, the speculators and drillers are gathered at the State lines waiting for the go-ahead. The land owners and the drilling companies hope for a rapid growth in terms of the number of wells drilled and hooked up to pipelines; much of this is simply driven by the financial opportunities available from rapid development. And there are those who see a way out of rural poverty which pinches very tightly in this economy and at this time of year. Economists call the quick and temporary profits available to the first exploiters of an asset, economic rents.
Yet, rapid development may overwhelm the DEC's ability to properly regulate this industrial development; it certainly will overwhelm those who will find little help from impecuniously funded local Governments who are the implied regulators in much of the draft SEGIS. Also, the DEC is criticized for not having sufficient well-trained staff to accomplish proper inspection and the constant monitoring of each well as it is drilled, fracked, encased, and hooked up to pipelines.
*Financial stability and moral rectitude:*
We read that there are dodgy well developers and land leasing companies who are roaming the hills like wolves looking for "opportunities" to make a quick profit. The reality is that the companies in this industry vary from solid, conservative corporate citizens to con artists who have preyed on land owners. Too many of the dodgy companies have poor cash flows so they cannot meet their obligations even if they want to. Such companies have little regard for the environment or the economic damage that may be wrought, particularly to the State's water supplies. We should look for no reasoned slow and responsible approach from these companies on the fringes of financial stability and moral rectitude.
Nor can we look to these companies with any confidence after we read the typical lease when we hope for minimal intrusion, "best practice" drilling, pollution control, water sourcing and disposal, gas release, spill containment, proper casing with no shortcuts, and the restoration of the land. This later will take years, if it is ever done, and in many cases the damage to the water and land could be permanent.
*Funding:*
Unfortunately, while the State government hopes to find a financial gain from this development, it is not clear how it will do so. Yes, there is State income tax to be had on royalty payments and land leases. Yes there are well permit fees. And yes, there are fines (which seem to be trivial in view of the expected cost of each well reported at $3 million to $7 million). Most of these sources of funds will come in slowly over the life of the well.
There is a possible solution to these related issues. The State could auction well permits in a limited number to capture the economic rents inherent in developing this asset and by so doing, control the number of permits auctioned. This would allow the State time to learn from the process, keep the numbers manageable, and also would keep the value of such permits high. This will assure the State of an immediate income stream to offset the immediate costs of staffing up the DEC to regulate this industry. Such an auction would not replace any private contracts between land owners and drillers. The auction could limit those eligible to bid to responsible companies who post escrow accounts of sufficient size to be used to rectify spills, damage and accidents, as well as provide restoration funding to return the land to its before-development state.
Gas extraction is probably going to be a fact of life; there is too much profit to be made, too much gas to ignore, and the demand for natural gas will only grow. BUT New York State does not need to be plundered by companies bent on "land grabs" (this phrase is a corporate objective of Chesapeake Energy and written in their 10K, registered with the SEC.) Controlling this industry should be a paramount objective of the State Government. Controlled auction of well permits may be a way to moderate the pace of this development, keep questionable players out of it, and reap immediate funds for the state.
Edward K
- Dear Governor Paterson,
As a resident of Ithaca, NY, my husband and I, Conrad Alexander and
Paige Morgan, strongly urge you to withdraw the draft Supplemental
GEIS. We have always cared deeply about our environment and
community, but nothing has worried us quite as much as the prospect of
drilling in New York. We have read many articles both pro and con on
this matter, and feel there are simply not enough regulations in
place, and certainly not enough safe guards, to drill without hurting
the environment, our drinking water, and many of the other negative
impacting possibilities that we probably still know very little about.We urge you to withdraw this draft Supplemental. We agree with the
following statements from ToxicsTargeting.com:1. Governor Paterson must immediately withdraw the draft Supplemental
GEIS because it is utterly inadequate to safeguard New York's
environment and public health.
2. The Department of Environmental Conservation's (DEC) own spill
reports document existing regulations have failed to prevent or to
require the clean up hundreds of natural gas and oil drilling problems
involving fires, explosions, polluted drinking water wells, home
evacuations and massive drilling wastewater releases. DEC must not
issue new gas drilling permits until those regulatory concerns have
been fully resolved. That is why the Supplemental GEIS review must be
restarted.
3. The draft SGEIS totally fails to propose a safe method of
managing natural gas drilling wastewater and hydrofracking fluid. It
simply leaves that task to localities. Improper management of natural
gas drilling wastewater has already caused massive toxic pollution
impacts. The SGEIS must solve this disposal problem before new natural
gas drilling permits are issued.
4. DEC is woefully understaffed to cope with existing natural gas
drilling problems. Only 17 staff are available to regulate nearly
7,000 existing natural gas wells. New gas drilling permits must not be
issued until the SGEIS solves this problem.
5. The SGEIS fails to address critical issues associated with
strict clean up liability, natural gas spill reporting, private right
of legal action, insurance coverage and unfunded local government
mandates. All those concerns must be addressed prior to the issuance
of new gas drilling permits.Thank you for considering our plea!
Very sincerely,
Paige M
- Dear Govenor Patterson:
I am a property owner in Tompkins County and have been closely following the issue of Marcellus Shale gas drilling and the controversial means of hydrofracturing the shale.
I am deeply disturbed by the issues that this drilling calls forth, not the least of which is the degradation of our beautiful landscape and potential contamination of our resources in this finger lakes region.
I am calling upon you to please do the right thing in this case and withdraw the state DEC's SGEIS. It cannot be stated strongly enough. New York State must be a leader in the proper oversight and overall handling of how gas drilling is to be conducted in our great state to protect its people and its natural resources.
Thank you,
Sueane G
- Dear Governor Patterson,
Many many concerns have come up in recent months over the environmental impacts, and the impacts on human health and safety, of the proposed Marcellus Shale gas drilling (hydrofracking.) Even the US EPA is balking at the thought of proceeding to drill before those concerns have been addressed -- especially concerns about the extensive impacts on our water supply. I believe that it's time to acknowledge that we are not ready to move forward. Please withdraw the draft SGEIS until we have time to create more thoughtful and complete safety regulations.
Thank you,
Marty H
- Dear Governor Paterson,
It seems that New Yorkers are just beginning to realize the potential impact of the high volume hydrofracking that will be used to extract gas from various hard rock formations throughout the state. Today's Cortland Standard devoted two major stories to the topic including quotes from two County officials with major concerns about the adequacy of the proposed regulations to protect the environoment, the health of citizens and the local infrastructure. A lengthy letter to the editor questioned whether Cortland Co. can survive the onslaught of industrial drilling and recalled the tracts given to veterans of the Revolutionary War and the number of wells that would be allowed in each one under the DEC proposal.
Landsmen have managed to obtain leases on over 50% of the county's land through deception and secrecy about the presence of gas in shale and the method for extracting it. Even some of our prime recreational and agricultural tracts that have been preserved with public and state funding stand to be devastated by this process.
Given the experience of other states including Pennsylvania, New Yorkers will not stand by and watch our beautiful landscape turn into an industrial wasteland. No amount of money can compensate for the loss of our agricultural and recreational potential. Retirees, families and students will surely seek a better quality of life elsewhere if NY is degraded in the way other states have been.
You can become a hero by withdrawing the totally inadequate dSGEIS now and insist on no hydrofracking until the science has proven it to be totally safe and NY citizens can maintain their enriching and healthy quality of life.
Thank you for your attention to this vital issue.
Mary B
- Dear Governor Paterson, Please withdraw the SGEIS on Marcellus Shale hydrofracking. The document doesn;t meaningful address water quality issues, air quality issues, wastewater management issues, local roadway damage, and the provision for "compulsory integration" of unwilling landowners is extremely offensive and an abuse of landowner's rights.
Please respond to this request for your action, Thank you,
Pamela J
- Dear Governor Paterson--We have lived in Ithaca, NY for over 20 years, and my husband and I have come to love this area for its natural beauty and healthy environment in which to raise our children. Because these factors are so central to our local economy and the attractiveness of our area to tourists, businesses, and those who may wish to visit or invest in our area, we are deeply concerned about the potential threat posed by the Marcellus Shale drilling, should permits be issued in the near future. Based on our understanding of the DEC supplemental guidelines, we do not believe sufficient safeguards are in place to protect against possible environmental damage to our region. Not only is the DEC itself insufficiently staffed to provide the oversight necessary to monitor the drilling and address any issues that may arise, we are not convinced that that agency has the full expertise necessary to provide this oversight, and the draft does not provide clarity on who should oversee all elements of this process or how that oversight will be financed.
We do understand the arguments--primarily economic--that have been presented in support of moving forward with the issuing of permits at this time. We also understand that you will be under significant pressure--especially from major corporations, such as Exxon, now that it is investing in this region--to allow for the drilling to move forward quickly. We urge you in the strongest possible terms to resist this pressure, and to exercise real caution to safeguard the water and land in New York, until there are fully adequate safeguards in place so that the value of our natural environment and our natural resources can be protected for all New Yorkers. We believe that this is a case where the financial benefits to some New Yorkers (as well as to multi-national corporations and individual workers with few lasting ties to our region) are vastly outweighed by the potential negative consequences that could last for many generations should you move too quickly to allow for drilling without these adequate safeguards in place.
Thank you, Governor Paterson, for your stewardship of these treasured resources. We wish you the best for the New Year, and we look forward to many years of environmental health, natural beauty, and economic security for all New Yorkers.
Sincerely,
J. Ellen G - Dear Governor Paterson,
Instead of citing the many issues not addressed by the DEC in their DSGEIS, and instead of coming to you from a scientific perspective that recognizes that many concerns regarding drilling for natural gas in New York State, I am appealing to you as a citizen, land owner, fellow democrat, educator and steward of the environment when I implore you to withdraw the DEC Draft SGEIS on Horizontal Gas Drilling, High Volume Hyrofracturing and Production and declare a one year minimum continuation of the statewide moratorium on gas drilling and high volume hydrofracturing, until such time as the document can be rewritten to provide adequate protections to the environment and the citizens of the State. As presented, the DSGEIS fails to adequately address numerous aspects that would provide those protections. I also implore you to consider not allowing ANY gas drilling in New York State at any time in the future. As you must realize, the ramifications of drilling are many and they are devastating. Just as the EPA, many fellow NYS citizens, town boards, community groups, scientists, DEC union members, NYC watershed community members and other organizations have clearly articulated, the environmental impact and devastation from drilling and fracking to New York are irreparable and long term.
As a life-long Democrat and resident of New York State and a property owner in three counties, I beg you to reconsider gas drilling in this beautiful state. These selfish actions of a minority of landowners coupled by the hasty actions by a desperate State government in financial despair will have long-term devastating and irreparable damage to the beauty, air quality, water quality, natural resources, community health and well-being, and the livelihood and health of New York residents not to mention the decreased potential for economic growth and development and tourism.
In my lifetime, I’ve spent numerous hours hiking, biking, and swimming in the Catskill Mountains where I grew up. I now spend time engaging in these same activities and walking my dogs in both Broome and Tompkins counties enjoying the rolling hills, streams, and breathtaking landscapes. In fact, my husband and I were looking forward to retiring and building our dream home on land we purchased in Brooktondale NY, only to now to be devastated by the proposed drilling that we have so firmly opposed.
I’ve also been a steward of the earth and have enjoyed the amazing diversity and beauty of New York State for over 40 years. It seems that as a society, we never are able to learn how quick action for potential monetary reward dooms us environmentally in the long term. Now, here we are at the end of 2009 and we are on the brink of making a terrible decision to drill in this beautiful land of mountains, rolling hills, and clean water, for a possible monetary benefit that will ultimately cost us our health, ground water supply, and any future economic development and tourism. For one simple example, take a moment to imagine our Finger Lakes wineries having to put a drilling well site on the label of their wines instead of the picturesque finger lakes that currently decorate their bottles…I’m quite certain tourists will continue to flock to visit wineries with raped landscapes and polluted waters from fracking, don’t you?Governor Paterson, I’m angry and outraged. Not only have a been a steward for the NYS environment, I’ve been in education for 20 years and have spent many hours educating people both young and old about environmental conservation, respect for the earth and other living beings, environmental stewardship. In one clean swoop, you along with a minority of landowners and multiple drilling companies are ready negate that and ruin a state that I and MANY others live and love. It’s as if you view the water, land, and resources, as your own! Well, they are not! The water is my water, your water, our neighbor’s water and we don’t want it contaminated with fracking wastes!!! Please I implore you, think about the ramifications of such a decision! I implore you to withdraw the DEC Draft SGEIS on Horizontal Gas Drilling, High Volume Hyrofracturing and Production and declare a one year minimum continuation of the statewide moratorium on gas drilling and high volume hydrofracturing, until such time as the document can be rewritten to provide adequate protections to the environment and the citizens of the State. As presented, the DSGEIS fails to adequately address numerous aspects that would provide those protections.
Ultimately, I ask that you stop this drilling initiative all together. They are other solutions to our financial crisis. I invite you to bring together diverse people from this state to brainstorm ideas to address this crisis and to take a more proactive, environmentally intelligent approach to finding more appropriate solutions that will benefit all residents. I am happy to be the first in line to help. If not, highly educated and successful people like my husband and myself will have no choice to leave the state for a state with a more competent approach to resource management and governance and one that is more environmentally conscious. We’re the lucky ones because we can leave. But, what about the families who were in economic distress and who were taken advantage of by the drilling companies in the first place? What choice do they and their children have?
In closing, I am minimally asking for you to withdraw the DEC Draft SGEIS on Horizontal Gas Drilling, High Volume Hyrofracturing and Production and declare a one year minimum continuation of the statewide moratorium on gas drilling and high volume hydrofracturing. Ultimately, I implore you to stop the drilling once and for all in NYS. It’s your choice Mr. Paterson, how do you want to be remembered by the next generation of children as a former Governor of NYS?
Sincerely,
Leanne A
- Dear Governor Paterson,
Thank you for this opportunity to urge you to withdraw the SGEIS for Marcellus Shale drillling, and ask you to declare a moratorium on permits for any drilling until every aspect of this issue has been thoroughly and satisfactorily considered. Please give the gift of the wisdom of time to NYS, its agencies, municipalities and experts to consider all the issues and concerns associated with Marcellus shale gas extraction and hydro-fracking processes.
Attached, please find letters from Judith Enck (USEPA), the NRDC and from responsible staff members of the NYSDEC. I wholeheartedly support their ideas, and share their concerns. I ask you please to also carefully consider the research and comments of Dr. Walter Hang.
Additionally, please consider the following comments:
The current SGEIS:
FAILS to provide a comprehensive, reliable, appropriate waste water and solid waste disposal plan;
FAILS to identify, study and plan for mitigation of cumulative regional effects of boom town development (ie) effects of increased traffic and development pressure on the immediate Marcellus shale area -- and also on the NYS Highlands Region of the Lower Hudson Valley;
FAILS to fully analyze effects on surface waters and groundwater drinking water supplies for ALL affected watersheds -- from a regional perspective -- not just on behalf of the NYC Watershed areas;
FAILs to adequately identify deposits of geologic treasures (ie) below-ground fossil 'fields' -- and
FAILS to determine a protection and mitigation plan for these below-ground pre-historic fossil records embedded in the Marcellus shale area;
FAILS to adequately identify all historic, cultural and archaeological sites in advance of applications so as to determine a protection and mitigation plan that will protect the architectural, cultural, archaeological and historical record of the people of New York State;
FAILS to provide a comprehensive biodiversity study of the Marcellus Shale area so as to determine a protection and mitigation plan that will protect wildlife, fish, birds and plants in general -- and with special consideration of sensitive and important species and habitats;
FAILS to study and provide assurance of ability for NYSDEC staff (now at a bare-bones level) to be able to manage, administer and enforce the permitting and regulatory processes for drilling;
FAILS to analyze and provide assurance of ability of NYS DEC limited staff not only to handle Marcellus Shale issues, but also simultaneously to manage all other statewide environmental issue and processes;
FAILS to endow adequate authority and power to Local Municipalities so that local governments can adequately plan and protect the public health, safety and welfare of its residents, along with their local community character;
FAILS to provide provision of a plan for training Local Governments and Local Planning Boards in order to support local government efforts within this context on behalf of their residents. In fact, the NYS Association of Towns Meeting of last year (February 2009) was the first and only Statewide Towns meeting that has ever included any informational presentation or training with regard to Marcellus Shale issues. This fact dramatically illustrates the degree to which NYS municipalities are currently unprepared to address the multitude of tasks and decisions they must make on behalf of their local residents. The decisions made at every local level will have an ongoing and cumulative effect for decades to come -- indeed, these decisions will forever change the landscape, environments, demographics, water quality, and land use patterns for most of New York State.
I want to assure you of my respect for NYS decision makers, the NYSDEC and other NYS agencies. Over the years, I have worked personally with staff from NYSDEC, OPRHP, DOS and others -- and I know your Commissioners and staff people are of the highest caliber. I have the very highest regard for Pete Grannis, Jim Tierney, Carol Ash, Fran Dunwell, Willie Janeway and others. But I believe your fine administration and staff have been hampered in this effort with inadequate staff, inadequate time, inadequate studies --- and even inadequate data in the preparation of this document. It is a good start, but only a start.
May I suggest that IF -- after all due consideration -- permission for drilling does proceed, why not institute a phased in process, whereby the entire area is first analyzed for its productivity, and then land with the least chance of negative impact, of the highest benefit-to-cost ratio, could be opened for permitting -- bit-by-bit; over a timeline of years. In that way, the administrative burden could be alleviated; and at the same time, the process can be tested and improved and carefully guided without risking widespread whole-scale systemic failures.
The considerations that lie before you and New York agencies and municipalities are multitude and profound. To make your best and wisest decisions, you and others need much more time to study the vast and numerous impacts that will sweep like a Tsunami across New York State, once the gates are opened to permit Marcellus Shale drilling and hydrofracking.
Please exercise your most thoughtful and deliberate consideration of the situation. Should your deliberations result in your decision to slow the process; to declare a moratorium and to demand more studies, more deliberation --- your wisdom will be widely applauded and deeply appreciated. To put it very, very simply there is an old adage that we were all taught, and which we all know to be true: "Haste Makes Waste". My thoughts and prayers are with you.
Sincerly,
Janet B - Dear Governor,
do the right thing!withdraw the draft SGEIS
we need to preserve our natural resources.
thank you,
Margaret E - Dear Gov. Patterson,
I am writing to ask you to withdraw the above dGEIS for several reasons. One is the lack of knowledge of what chemical will be used as they are Proprietary Knowledge. Another is that there are no facilities to treat the fracking water. Another is the damage that 24/7 truck traffic would do to local roads. Another is that where the fracking fluid goes once underground can be unknown, and that not all of the water returns. Another is that there have been people outside of MYS where fracking has been done that have had their air, land and water contaminated by these chemical, even having water that can be lit on fire and that wells have exploded. Also there is no stated amount of set back from residences, so that these platforms are built very close to residences.
But one of the most disturbing things for me in CNY is that there are extensive leases in the Tully Valley, that has very delicate geology and has already had a history of several mud slides, one within the last 20 years that people had to be rescued from by helicopter. To drill in this area is madness, and either the companies are unaware of the geology, or they don't care about the geology, the resultant mud slides, the land there, nor even thier own equipment which would surely be lost. Apparently they have either not done their homework, or they don't care as long as they can get gas from the ground at any cost. These are not companies I would want to have work on any land of mine, and neither should anyone else. This is an abomination, seeking short term gains (10-20 yrs of gas) for long term devestation. Withdraw this dGEIS.Sincerely, Candace W
-
Dear Governor Patterson,
I am a resident of a rural area in Cortland County. I am writing to voice my opinion that the Marcellus Shale dSGEIS, as currently written, does not adequately address the potential negative impacts of hydrofracture gas drilling. I am in favor of harvesting this vast energy resource, but not at the expense of the private drinking wells of myself, or other rural land owners. I am not confident that the proposed regulatory structures will be adequate to prevent possible contamination, or even destruction, of my private drinking water supply. What will we gain as a society if we do indeed bring all this trapped gas to market, but bring harm or destruction to an equally, if not more so, important resource, that being water, in the process?
I kindly ask that you instruct the DEC to withdraw the dSGEIS and devote more time and attention to formulating a new one, one which better addresses the protection of water quality associated with hydrofacture gas drilling.
As I go to my kitchen sink and draw a nice glass of pure water, I thank you.
Richard L
- Dear Governor Patterson,
I am writing to request that you accept the urging of the Environmental Protection Agency and declare the current SGEIS regarding hydrofracking in New York State to be inadequate and an unreliable guide. As you know, the basis of the SGEIS is outdated, and the probability of serious environmental consequences had been documented by established scientists in the field.
If New York State is to have a happy New Year, it will begin with your rejection of the SGEIS.
Sincerely,
Arnold T
- Dear Governor Paterson,
I am writing to request that you withdraw the draft Supplemental Generic Environmental Impact Statement on Marcellus Shale Horizontal Hydrofracking which I believe is fatally flawed.
Yours sincerely,
--
Richard S - Dear Governor Patterson,
I am asking you to withdraw the dSGEIS on hydrologic fracturing of the Marcellus Shale in New York State, so that concerns regarding potential impacts to human health and the environment that the EPA believes warrant further scientific and regulatory analysis can be addressed. Of particular concern to EPA are issues involving water supply, water quality, wastewater treatment operations, local and regional air quality, management of naturally occurring radioactive materials disturbed during drilling, cumulative environmental impacts, and the New York City watershed. EPA recommends that these concerns be addressed and essential environmental protection measures established prior to the completion of the SEQRA process, and I strongly support this recommendation and urge you to take action to assure that this process is thorough and effective.
Thank you in advance for taking a responsible stance in protecting our communities and our water resources. You may want to review a documentary film titled “Split Estate” that illustrates the impacts to environmental and human health faced by two Colorado towns during under-regulated natural gas exploration, extraction and storage. The film is available at: http://www.splitestate.com/
Sincerely,
Jeanie - To Our Govenor,
Please consider the negative impact gas drilling would have on the whole state of NY. Citizens in upstate NY have the same rights to have clean air and water as NYC residents do. Please, I request that you withdraw the draft SGEIS.
Thank-you,
Brandi M - Dear Governor:
I am aware of the economic benefits of gas drilling in NYS. They are, however, insignificant compared with the real costs that such drilling will impose on the citizenry of those areas where the drilling is to take place. Who is going to reimburse homeowners when their wells are contaminated with toxins as a result of hydraulic fracturing? How can they then try to sell their houses? Who will buy them? Who will compensate the organic farmers, vineyard owners, and maple syrup farmers for the destruction of their livelihoods? Dairy cattle drink 10 gallons of water per cow to be productive. If their water is contaminated and their milk is suspect, the dairy industry in NYS ( the second largest in the US) will be crippled.
It is in your power to stop this debacle. Please act now or be remembered as the governor who destroyed a major part of the fresh food industry in NYS and destroyed the tourist industry in the Finger Lakes.
Richard S
- Dear Gov. Paterson,
I am writing to make a plea on behalf of my children and my children's children that you withdraw the draft SGEIS. The evidence is strong. Do what is right!
Most sincerely,
The Thomas Family
- Govenor Paterson,
I am requesting that you withdraw the draft SGEIS! Our water quality is more important than drilling for natural gas in a way that ruins the environment. Start the new year off right!
Virginia M - Dear Governor Patterson,
New Yorkers must not choose between clean water and energy as we need both things to provide
for a healthy population.PLEASE withdraw the draft SGEIS for the development of the Marcellus shale formation in upstate New York.
It is important that, before development is contemplated in this state, our environmental department develop
clear and enforceable plans to address: the safe and proper disposal of radioactive liquid waste; the disposal
and treatment of water polluted by hydro-fracking; monitoring and protection of fresh water and, by extension,
public health.New Yorkers lack stringent environmental protections for water quality. We can not take clean water for
granted and must give this resource protection of the highest order.Additionally, New York state must ensure that oil and gas companies pay for needed safety and remediation
infrastructure and should not expect taxpayers to foot the bill for treating and disposing of toxic waste.Thank you for your consideration.
Sincerely,
Lauren C - Dear Governor Patterson --
As a resident of the Finger Lakes region and a scientist who
has spent more than 30 years working on water quality
issues (including those from oil and gas development), I
call on you to withdraw the draft supplemental generic
environmental statement for gas development from hydraulic
fracturing. The current statement is totally inadequate in
the assessment of adverse consequences. To allow the
drilling to go forward with only this level of assessment and
oversight would likely prove disastrous to the long-term
sustainability of much of upstate New York.Thank you,
Robert H
- Dear Govenor Patterson-
I understand the pressure to extract the energy contained in the Marcellus Shale. While the pressure is great to extract the natural gas now, it is also a risk and should be counter-balanced with great restaint. The gas has been there for millions of years. It's not going anyplace. Let's take the time to do it right and resist the profit driven wildcatter mentality to drill, drill, drill.
All one has to do is fly across the county and look out the window. There's an awful lot of brown. Fresh water is the most underappreciated valuable natural resource. New York State is rich with fresh water. Let's be wary of any initiatives that would put water, the ultimate vital resource in jeopory. Thank you for your attention. Best wishes in the coming year.
Sincerely,
Tom B - Governor, I am writing you this morning, praying that you will see the light on the matter of hydrofracking in New York. I urge you to stop the proposed rules set forth by the DEC for governing hydrofracking in the marcellus shale formation. This will spell ruination of the health of the citizens that you govern. I speak from experience. My home and health as well as the health of my small children was damaged in 2002 by oil and gas production, we lost everything. People have no legal recourse when harmed by these companies. They will run over everybody in this state if you do not do something today.
Thomas M
- Dear Governor Patterson:
Please, please start the new year off right and withdraw the draft SGEIS.
Please, no Fracking .....
- Dear Governor Patterson
We request your disapproval of the dSGEIS on hydro fracturing of the Marcellus Shale for recovery of natural gas.
Our water supply in this area of beautiful lakes is constantly being threatened, and nothing should be approved on this issue until a full and complete investigation is completed, and the public who will be affected, has had an opportunity to comment.
Thank you
Very truly yours,
LELAND H
- Dear Gov. Paterson,
I am writing to urge you to withdraw the sDGEIS governing gas extraction from the Marcellus Shale beneath our homes and waterways. Please start over, take the EPA information into account, prepare for the actual protection of our human and environmental health and then proceed with a better grounded, more comprehensive impact statement.
I admire your fiscal integrity and the leadership you are giving for real financial soundness for our state! Withdrawing the fundamentally narrow, flawed sDGEIS and starting over is similar. Real economic soundness will come only if it is based on a real environmental impact statement. The two go hand in hand.
Thank you.
Respectfully,
Louise M
- Dear Governor Paterson,
Today, on the last day open to public comment, I am emailing you to ask that you withdraw the draft SGEIS regarding drillling for gas in the Marcellus Shale. As a resident of Ithaca, NY and a graduate student studying Botany, I not only possess a profound desire to maintain a healthy and clean environment, with drinkable water, in upstate NY for us to live in as well as the generations which will come after us, but also understand well the biological forces behind the inescapable need for humans to desist in destroying their own environment. I do not believe "alternative" drilling projects, like plumbing the Marcellus Shale, is the way forward for changing our energy needs in this country, and we must instead truly decrease our dependency on fossil fuels rather than hope to constantly discover new sources of them. These ancient strata of shale contain myriad nasty compounds which will inevitably be released in the drilling process and would best be left underground where they are now, the only safe storage unit for them. This last point is well evidenced by the drilling process already begun in our neighboring state of PA, and the few wells already in use in upstate NY.
Today I ask that you please withdraw the draft SGEIS. Every day I ask that you please do everything you can to help NY become a role model for our country by systematically decreasing our energy needs and by finding truly alternative energy sources, ones which do not impact the health and sustainability of this fine place in which we live and must safeguard for future New Yorkers.
Sincerely,
Cynthia S - Dear governor Patterson,
We stand at the end of a tension-filled year, and you and our state have done reasonably well given the way we have all been tested. For the coming year, for me, the biggest concern is the possibility of having the hydrofracking add to the challenges already existant. It has already absorbed an enormous amount of attention, and energy, due to the wide array of problems attached to it---which you are well aware of from the multitude of information and letters like mine that you have already received.
My intent with this additional mailing is to again let you know the degree of concern I, and many others, have about such gas-drilling that will impact our environment in ways disastrous to it and to us who inhabit it.
I believe you are under enormous pressure from both sides of this issue. I trust you will make decisions that reflect the health and welfare of our New Yorkers.
Sincerely,
Monty B
- Dear Governor Paterson,
I am writing to ask that you withdraw the Marcellus Shale draft SGEIS and please re-think what could happen to New York state, its people, its environment, and the wild creatures that call it home.
I am not a New York resident, but I have visited many times. I have visited friends in Ithaca on numerous occasions and I have become very fond of the region - its wineries, the beautiful countryside and the amazing lakes and gorges. The thought of that landscape, one that I hold so dear, being destroyed by huge drilling platforms and unspeakable pollution, is a real tragedy. It is not a place that I would want to invest my tourist dollars in anymore if such a thing were to happen.
Please consider the horrific impacts hydrofracking would have on the people of New York, their livelihoods, the landscape and the wild denizens of the region. Please don't let this beautiful area, or any other region in New York for that matter, become another Appalachia. I and many others love to visit your state, but this would most certainly turn us away.
Most sincerely,
Carol P
- Dear Governor Paterson:
I am against all drilling utilizing horizontal hydrofracturing in the headwaters of the Susquehanna and Delaware watersheds.
I have studied and lectured on the geology of the northeastern US, and it is an absolute fact that there is NO 100% unfractured/impermeable layer of bedrock between the Marcellus Shale formation and our surface waters. The hydrofracturing process requires pressures of ( depending on depth ) 6,000 to 10,000 psi, i.e. 3 to 5 tons on an area the size of a postage stamp. That pressurized mix of water, sand and chemicals that remains underground will follow the path of least resistance and eventually find its way to your aquifers. If thousands of new wells are approved, your waters will become tainted for centuries and it will cost billion$ to remediate. Additionally, drilling will put the Chesapeake and Delaware estuaries at great risk once the tainted waters begin to flow downstream.
Please take the time to fully investigate my claim, and until your scientists confirm to the satisfaction of the citizens of the State of New York that horizontal hydrofracturing poses no risk to their waters, I am requesting a complete moratorium on any new drilling.
I'd also recommend a visit to Dimock, PA to catch a glimpse of the future should you decide otherwise.
Regards,
Don W
- Dear Governor Paterson,
I am writing to you this evening because I care about the health and safety of all New Yorkers and I know that you do too. I urge you to withdraw the draft SGEIS on hydrologic fracturing of the Marcellus Shale. No matter what short-term benefits or profits hydrofracking may give, IT IS NOT WORTH IT IN THE LONG RUN. As you know, the EPA has stated concern about issues involving...
a.)water supply
b.)water quality
c.)wastewater treatment operations
d.)local and regional air quality
e.)management of naturally occurring radioactive materials disturbed during drilling
f.)cumulative environmental impacts
and g.)the New York City watershedThis draft is obviously not complete and, if accepted, will bring with it an enormous uproar. Please make the responsible decision and withdraw the draft SGEIS.
Sincerely,
Samantha W
- Dear Governor Paterson,
On December 30, 2009 EPA responded to the NYSDEC's dSGEIS regarding high-volume hydraulic fracturing in New York State with some critically important comments. It is clear from EPA's comments that the dSGEIS is inadequate to provide the regulation necessary to avoid costly and irrevocable impacts on the communities in the Marcellus Shale area of New York State. A copy of the letter is available at:
http://www.scribd.com/doc/24635264/US-EPA-Marcellus-dSGEIS-Comment-Letter
Here are some of the concerns mentioned in the introductory letter to the EPA analysis of the dSGEIS:
"EPA believes that the analysis and discussion of cumulative and indirect impacts in the dSGEIS need to be significantly expanded."
"The dSGEIS does not include an evaluation of the environmental impacts of the separate, yet interrelated actions of siting and constructing gathering lines.
" EPA also notes that the dSGEIS does not analyze the impacts from new drilling service industries that would undoubtedly result."
"In addition, a greater emphasis needs to be placed on the potential health impacts that may be associated with gas drilling and hydro-fracturing. EPA suggests that the New York State Department of Health (DOH) join NYSDEC as a co-lead on the SEQRA document."
EPA is critical of the NYSDEC's reliance on a 17 year old GEIS document which does not take into account conditions which have changed significantly.
EPA states that it has "serious reservations about whether gas drilling in the NYC watershed is consistent with the vision of long-term maintenance of a high-quality unfiltered water supply."
EPA states that it would cost New York taxpayers "billions of dollars to construct and operate a water filtration plant should the watershed be compromised." (I would add that the chemicals used in hydraulic fracturing and the radioactive tailings in produced water can not be removed with available technology in such vast quantities in any case.)
EPA adds that building a filtration system would cost "$10 billion in capital costs and $100 billion in annual operating costs."
EPA also has said, "While protecting the New York City watershed is important because of the millions of New Yorkers who rely on this drinking water supply, we also have concerns about water quality impacts throughout the state. Just because fewer people rely on upstate water sources does not imply that these supplies are not also worthy of protection."
"In conclusion, EPA believes that NYSDEC has prepared an informative dSGEIS on hydrologic fracturing of the Marcellus Shale. However, we have concerns regarding potential impacts to human health and the environment that we believe warrant further scientific and regulatory analysis. Of particular concern to EPA are issues involving water supply, water quality, wastewater treatment operations, local and regional air quality, management of naturally occurring radioactive materials disturbed during drilling, cumulative environmental impacts, and the New York City watershed. EPA recommends that these concerns be addressed and essential environmental protection measures established prior to the completion of the SEQRA process (emphasis added).
Governor Paterson, considering this EPA document and the similar concerns documented by thousands of other organizations and individuals, I respectfully request that you direct the NYSDEC to withdraw the current dSGEIS and avoid costly and irrevocable mistakes.
Sincerely,
Diane M
- Hello Gov. Paterson,
I teach sustainable engineering at Cornell University in Ithaca, NY. I am
writing to ask you to withdraw the SGEIS draft regarding natural gas
drilling in NY state.Thank You,
Park D
- Dear Governor Paterson,
I am writing to request that you withdraw the draft SGEIS.
I'm a landowner and resident in the town of Hector, Schuyler County, and have been since 1985. We depend on well water for our drinking supply, as do all of our neighbors. The threat to the drinking water from fracking is enormous, as is evidenced by the problems already seen in Pennsylvania. It appears that due to the water concerns, fracking will not be permitted in the NYC reservoir areas. Our health in Schuyler County is every bit as important as the health of NYC residents. Just because our population is lower is not a reason to allow our water to be polluted and our health to be jeopardized.
In addition, the damage to the environment of this area due to truck traffic, noise, and turning land into drilling pads would be disastrous.
And, the draft SGEIS does not mandate enforcement of environmental safety related to drilling, nor does it mandate that the gas companies pay for the necessary water testing that will be needed to demonstrate that any pollution in well water was caused by the drilling. Nor does it require that water be tested in as large an area around a drilling site as the fracking can affect. (Of course, the water testing is needed for legal reasons, but doesn't help restore drinking water after it's been polluted.) If horizontal drilling is ever to take place in our state, the regulations must be rewritten to be very clear on these points, and the infrastructure to enforce the regulations must be in place before any drilling would occur.
Finally, the gas isn't going anywhere. Even if it takes 50 or 100 years to perfect a safe method to obtain the gas, it will still be there, and that will be the time to obtain it.
One more thing - I read that new state laws in the last few months prohibit burning garbage due to the environmental risks. If the state is this concerned about the relatively small risks posed by burning garbage in one's own backyard, surely the state would be far more concerned about the huge risks posed by fracking, and wouldn't be persuaded to allow fracking just because of the money to be made.
Sincerely,
Caroline H - Dear Governor Paterson:
I am writing to ask you to withdraw the draft SGEIS on Marcellus Shale drilling, as it does not adequately consider the need to safeguard NY water resources. Thank you for your attention.
John G
- Dear Governor Patterson,
I am writing to ask that you withdraw the dGEIS on hydrofracking gas
drilling and hold the moratorium on such drilling until the time when
adequate research has been done and appropriate measures are in place
to protect ALL New Yorkers from contaminated water, the loss of
woodlands, an overload of trucking, polluted air, and too much
noise. Your base of support is NOT just New York City those of us
in Upstate are watching how you protect our health, forests, water
resources and environmental beauty. This issue is so obviously one
of environmental protection and care of the Earth that it is hard to
believe that you would do anything other than rescind the dGEIS and
order a complete review of the research and the observable results of
hydrofracking in other areas. I am counting on you, as a Democrat
and a man who has taken an oath to protect the land and people of
this great state.My most serious concern is the issue of water contamination and use.
All New Yorkers, and not just those in the City, will be affected.
My own area, the Finger Lakes region of New York, has been cited as
one of the world’s most important water resources, and the
possibility that our lakes and streams are now in danger from
hydrofracking contamination is unthinkable. The chemicals found in
the hydrofracking solution would render affected water undrinkable
and possibly unusable even for agriculture. Until there are measures
in place that would assure that nearby wells, streams, rivers and
lakes via runoffs would not be affected, the moratorium on gas
drilling using hydrofracking techniques should be continued. There
is also no known way at this time to take adequate care of the
wastewater from drilling operations; local clean water facilities are
unprepared technically to deal with the chemicals in the fracking
solution. Upstate New Yorkers are just as important as those who
live in the city, and we deserve the same protections. Furthermore,
the use of such huge quantities of water in order to drill into the
depths of the Marcellus Shale is irresponsible and unethical when the
planet is faced with such a shortage of potable water. Trucking it
in is a waste of fuel; using it from the streams and rivers locally
would be an environmental disaster.I am also concerned about the long-term cumulative effect of 1) air
quality from drilling, 2) the cost to local regions to maintain roads
for heavy truck traffic, 3) use of streams and local water supplies
to provide the millions of galleons of water needed to drill, 4) the
environmental damage due to timber cutting and clearing for the drill
pads, 5) noise pollution and 6) influx of non-local, tax paying labor
that may put pressure on local welfare, police, fire and school
budgets. You have made public comments about the end of “home rule”
for local areas, and I find that shocking for a Democrat. Local rule
is a healthy and necessary part of democracy, and what you are asking
under the dGEIS is local taxation to pay for the roads and facilities
required by these multimillion-dollar corporations. Local areas
should have the right to determine how local lands are to be used and
what sort of limitations can be assigned, just as states should have
rights vis-à-vis the Federal government.Finally, I am concerned about the effect on wildlife. For instance,
near my house are several beautiful wetlands which offer homes and
stopping places for birds and water mammals like mink and beavers.
These wetlands, already at a premium in upstate New York, are
delicate and easily destroyed. Adjoining land has been leased, but
until adequate precautions are in place, drilling should not be
allowed to begin. Once these wetlands are ruined, there is no way to
rehabilitate them. The loss of trees, the noise associated with
drilling and trucking, and the pipes that may cross over old animal
trails could all contribute to loss of wildlife and a change in the
natural balance. We New Yorkers are proud and appreciative of our
environmental heritage and we don’t want it sacrificed to the profits
of Halliburton and other large companies.It is imperative, for the good of New York’s environment and the
health of her people, that the Supplemental dGEIS be first withdrawn,
and then fundamentally revised and expanded. Withdrawal of the
present draft is the necessary first step toward a fully adequate
document. Our homes, farms, parks and even our health hang in the
balance.Sincerely yours,
Nancy K
- Dear Governor Patterson,
I have serious concerns regarding the impact on human health, the environment, and the economy if hydrologic fracturing occurs in the Marcellus Shale. Please withdraw DEC's draft SGEIS. This document warrants further scientific and regulatory analysis.Please protect the health of the citizens in New York State. I live in an area where 40% of the land surrounding me is leased to gas drilling. The property values of my house will plummet if drilling occurs in the manner permitted by the dSGEIS. My well water can be contaminated and I have no alternate water supply. I implore you to withdraw the dSGEIS, as it warrants significant review and comment from scientists and citizens.
Thank you in advance for protecting the health of your constituents.
Gloria L
- Governor Paterson
You need to withdraw the draft SGEIS. Not some time - right NOW!
Dan R
- Dear Governor Patterson,
Please withdraw the DEC's draft SGEIS for hydraulic fracturing/gas drilling in our state. We cannot let the DEC endanger our land, our health, our property values, our water, our watersheds, etc.
The quality of life of millions depend on your decision to slow the freight train of DEC approval until all environmental safety and protection measures plus public health measures are satisfactorily addressed. The negative ripples of premature approval of this will be countless.We need you to step up for New York on this most important issue facing our state. If we don't have clean water, we can't continue living here. Please don't let our state be sold out to the oil and gas companies which have virtually no regulation.
thank you very much for your vision and courage,
respectfully,
Beth M - Dear Governor Patterson;
I am writing to add my 2cents to the discussion of the above mentioned document. I don't believe this document was written with the health and welfare of the people of NYS in mind. I, for one, and I'm sure I am not alone, am not interested in mitigation or abatement. I want to see prevention and protection. After all, it is the New York State Department of Environmental Protection, not the Department of Environmental Mitigation. This document is very friendly to the gas and oil industry without taking into account the fact that the DEP is not staffed adequately to handle oversight of wells already operating in New York, let alone all the wells that are planned to be hydraulically fractured with the resultant millions of gallons of toxic waste, which we have no way to process and no plan in place to deal with.
I'd really like you to send the gas industry packing. If we need methane, there are many more ways that are much more environmentally friendly than digging up the Finger Lakes and the beautiful Catskills. Have you computed how many tourism dollars will be lost if this area is devasted? Not enough is known, not enough has been studied, and not enough truth has been told about the potential effects of this type of drilling in this area. We live in a geologically unique environment here and it deserves its own right to exist whether gas lies underneath it or not. The evidence is piling up from other areas where this type of drilling has been used that it is neither benign nor friendly to neighbors or the environment. Let's put our thinking caps on, pretend that we've left the 20th century behind and find ways of running our industries that don't destroy the only place in the Universe we have to live at this time. And it truly is our industries that are creating the carbon toll on the Earth. It is not the individual, it is the corporations who need to find new ways of doing what they want to do. Let's make NY a leader in development of solar, wind and other renewable energy sources.
Very sincerely yours,
Pamela Q
- Governor Paterson
As a seasonal resident of Lake Huntington, I urge you to withdraw the Marcellus Shale Draft SGEIS!
It DOES NOT adequately protect our water supply.
Thank you!
- Governor Paterson,
By now you have no doubt seen the statement issued by the EPA district 2 office (key text below).
It is clear that more research need to be conducted before any horizontals hydro-fracking can be considered in the NY Marcellus shale.
Withdraw the dGEIS now so that the next round of research and investigation can be started.
Sincerely,
Adam B
- Dear Governor Paterson,
Please immediately withdraw the draft Supplemental GEIS because it is utterly inadequate to safeguard New York's environment and public health.
The Department of Environmental Conservation's (DEC) own spill reports document that existing regulations have failed to prevent or to require the clean up of hundreds of natural gas and oil drilling problems involving fires, explosions, polluted drinking water wells, home evacuations and massive drilling wastewater releases. DEC must not issue new gas drilling permits until those regulatory concerns have been fully resolved. That is why the Supplemental GEIS review must be restarted.
The draft SGEIS totally fails to propose a safe method of managing natural gas drilling wastewater and hydrofracking fluid. It simply leaves that task to localities. Improper management of natural gas drilling wastewater has already caused massive toxic pollution impacts. The SGEIS must solve this disposal problem before new natural gas drilling permits are issued.
DEC is woefully understaffed to cope with existing natural gas drilling problems. Only 17 staff are available to regulate nearly 7,000 existing natural gas wells. New gas drilling permits must not be issued until the SGEIS solves this problem.
The SGEIS fails to address critical issues associated with strict clean up liability, natural gas spill reporting, private right of legal action, insurance coverage and unfunded local government mandates. All those concerns must be addressed prior to the issuance of new gas drilling permits.
Thank you for your time and attention.
Sincerely,
Jerone G
- Dear Governor Paterson,
I strongly urge you to withdraw draft SGEIS. The water supply of upstate New York citizens should have the same protections as residents of New York City. The fracking process requires enormous quantities of water and there are insufficient requirements for safe disposal of the contaminated extracted water. Furthermore, the cost of cleaning and disposing of the "fracked" water should be bourne by the the financial beneficiaries of the gas, i.e., the owners of the land that contain the wells, and the drilling companies and oil and gas companies extracting the gas, not the general taxpayers.
Sincerely yours,
Jerome N - Governor Paterson,
I urge you to withdraw the draft SGEIS.
Yours truly,
Maria A
- Dear Governor Paterson,
I am writing to request that you withdraw the draft Supplemental Generic Impact Statement for the Oil, Gas and Solution Mining Regulatory Program distributed by NYSDEC. After substantial deliberation, I believe that this attempt at updating regulations to safely administer high-volume, horizontally drilled / hydraulically fractured natural gas well projects is so seriously flawed that it cannot be amended into a working document capable of guiding environmentally and economically sound development. My comments to the NYSDEC Division of Mineral Resources are attached for your review.
As an eyesight-impared individual, I know firsthand the difference between eyesight and vision. At this juncture, I am asking you to display the profound vision and sense of history of which I sense you are capable. Please order withdrawal of the draft SGEIS.Thank you for your attention.
Sincerely,
Ronald B
- Dear Governor Paterson,
Please immediately withdraw the draft Supplemental GEIS because it is utterly inadequate to safeguard New York's environment and public health.
The Department of Environmental Conservation's (DEC) own spill reports document that existing regulations have failed to prevent or to require the clean up of hundreds of natural gas and oil drilling problems involving fires, explosions, polluted drinking water wells, home evacuations and massive drilling wastewater releases. DEC must not issue new gas drilling permits until those regulatory concerns have been fully resolved. That is why the Supplemental GEIS review must be restarted.
The draft SGEIS totally fails to propose a safe method of managing natural gas drilling wastewater and hydrofracking fluid. It simply leaves that task to localities. Improper management of natural gas drilling wastewater has already caused massive toxic pollution impacts. The SGEIS must solve this disposal problem before new natural gas drilling permits are issued.
DEC is woefully understaffed to cope with existing natural gas drilling problems. Only 17 staff are available to regulate nearly 7,000 existing natural gas wells. New gas drilling permits must not be issued until the SGEIS solves this problem.
The SGEIS fails to address critical issues associated with strict clean up liability, natural gas spill reporting, private right of legal action, insurance coverage and unfunded local government mandates. All those concerns must be addressed prior to the issuance of new gas drilling permits.
Thank you for your time and attention.
Sincerely,
Molly K - Hi! I beseech you to withdraw the dsgeis. We cannot ruin NY's watershed in this way. Generations would suffer if this goes forth. Please, please act in respect for the people and the land of this wonderful state that my forbears have lived in since before the Revolutionary War.
Thank you,
Nancy B - Dear Governor Paterson,
I have been a big supporter of you since you became our governor. I was a big supporter of Patacki because he really cared about the natural resources of NYS, which he protected. Although I am an Independent, I plead with you to withdraw the SGEIS draft. The watershed of NYS need your help and guardianship.
thank you,
Melanie S - Fracking the earth has so many liabilities, it's not a good idea at
all. Alternative energy sources are coming into their own, with a
little more research and investment, we can have much better solutions.Don't destroy our bedrock! Don't suck up all the resources and burn
them into the air! this is not a clean industry. Don't let
corporations overrule the good of the planet for profit any more!
Withdraw the draft EIS.Louise H
- Dear Governor Paterson,
Please withdraw the draft SGEIS.
Yours respectfully,
Lynda B
- Dear Governor Patterson,
We can tell by your tough fiscal stance that you truly care about New York and it's future. As the new year is about to dawn, we
encourage you to please keep in mind the health and well being of New Yorkers that face potential hazards from poorly conceived natural gas drilling
projects, in particular the proposal of hydrologic fracturing- know as "fracking", which would involve injecting hazardous chemicals
into our groundwater. This is a matter with the potential for very serious and irreversible consequences, so extreme care should be taken.Therefore, along these lines, it would make sense at this time to withdraw the current draft SGEIS. Please ensure that the concerns
of your citizens are addressed.All the best to you in the New Year!
Thanks for your time,
Russell and Lisa D
- Governor Patterson..
Please do not approve drilling in the Marcellus Shale. I want my water supply fully protected in Tompkins County and in the rest of the Finger Lakes
and Southern Tier. More study of drilling the Marcellus Shale by New York State is mandatory..we need strong national standards for this. I have
seen what has happened in western Colorado with drilling in shale for oil. The land was destroyed. The Finger Lakes are a strong asset in
NYState. Please protect this region."While protecting the New York City watershed is important because of the millions of New Yorkers who rely on this drinking water supply, we also have concerns about water quality impacts throughout the state. Just because fewer people rely on upstate water sources does not imply that these supplies are not also worthy of protection." wrote Judy Enck. of the EPA. Please pay attention to the EPA report that was just released. There are lots of upstate DEMOCRATS who are concerned about this issue.
Barbara N
- Governor Paterson as soon as possible withdraw the draft SGEIS. I have concerns regarding potential impacts to human health and the environment. Further scientific and regulatory analysis is necessary.
- Dear Governor Paterson,
It is imperative that the draft SGEIS be withdrawn and re-worked. The DEC cannot fulfill its responsibility and mission to protect the environmental interests of the state of NY and the health of its citizens with the draft in its current form. The drilling should not begin until stricter regulations are in place. Without them, the potential long term cost will far outweigh the economic gains.
Please, do the RIGHT thing. Withdraw the draft.
Respectfully yours,
Carrie C
- Dear Governor Paterson:
Please ban fracking for gas in Marcellus Shale in New York State and the NYC watershed.
The toxins in the procurement process, carcinogens as well as radioactive matters, are impossible to remove by treatments.
There is an ever-entertwined relationship between all aspects of nature: land, air, water, animals, birds, plants, trees. Damage in a substantial way -- such as pollution of water and air - throws this increasingly tested balance irreversably out-of-balance. The human experiment is about to wear the planet out, likely in our life-times, it is urgent to heed the warnings.
Respect for climage and environment is the most important issue today. You may think I am digressing from the topic of gas drilling, but in fact, I firmly believe that we should not be seduced by the gas and oil companies who want to use the next 70 -100 years continuing the "drunken binge" on fossil fuels, since it is a 'transitional effort"! Really??
As a citizen of the NY State, I support all your efforts to break away from gas and develop solar, wind, biofuels, and geothermal fuel use.
Read Thomas Friedman's Hot, Flat and Crowded. It spells out how we can succeed as a country if we look for employment in safe energy. You can apply this to New York State. Advance all safe energy technologies. Subsidize companies to develop this here. Other countries and other states are going to beat us out if we don't get on top of this new business model.
In conclusion, throw out the draft of the SGEIS.
Throw in new business projects developing the positive, renewable, natural resources and beauty of this state!Sincerely,
Ruth H -
Dear Governor Paterson,
I’m writing to request that you withdraw the Marcellus Shale draft SGEIS, Region 2 of the U. S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), and request the DEC to make major, fundamental revisions to its proposal. I ask that you support the EPA’s recommendations to address the critical issues brought up during the draft SGEIS process and establish essential environmental protection measures prior to the completion of the SEQRA for hydrologic fracturing of the Marcellus Shale.
After studying the data and recent news reports, it is clear that hydrologic fracturing poses sufficient potential impacts to human health and the environment to warrant further scientific analysis and regulatory scrutiny. Specifically, I have concerns regarding the safety of the water supply, water quality, wastewater treatment operations, local and regional air quality, management of naturally occurring radioactive materials disturbed during drilling, and cumulative environmental impacts.
As a resident of New York for nearly sixty years, I have worked to protect the state’s environment quality for my entire professional life. The hydrologic fracturing process is yet another example of destructive human folly and arrogance toward the earth’s natural resources and environment. The enormous unseen and uncontrollable impacts of hydrologic fracturing make it inappropriate for mining in New York. As the State’s guardian, I ask that you protect the environment and stop the threat of hydrologic fracturing in our state.
Thank you for your attention.
Sincerely,
Candace C
- Dear Governor Paterson
Please withdraw the Marcellus dSGEIS. I am one of many laypeople and experts who appreciate the State's work, but see too many unanswered questions in this document that need further research in order to mitigate potential severe adverse impacts. Thank you for your consideration.
Susan B
- Governor Paterson
Please withdraw the present draft of SGEIS.
Hundreds of thousands of lives & livelihoods depend on the quality of the water
& the environment of this area. As a person who was sick & treated for environmental & heavy metal
poisoning, I know, first-hand, what it is like to be the victim an environment that has been tampered with.Thank you. Please help us keep our area pristine & not become another environmental disaster.
Nancy C
- Dear Governor Patterson, I think the EPA's position on the dSGEIS regarding the potential impact the hydrofracturing process might have in the Marcellus Shale drilling area is the strongest message you need to convince you to withdraw the dSGEIS for further study. Please look to the states of Pennsylvannia, Wyoming, and Colorado to see some of the potential unintended consequences of hydrofracturing. Also, the state of Wyoming provides a roadmap on what not to do when exploring and drilling for natural gas -- New York can learn from some of the mistakes made in the Pinedale area. Can hydrofracturing be done in a safe manner? Perhaps, but we don't know that for sure until more studies are conducted. Please protect the natural beauty, the environment, and the drinking water of our state for our children and our children's children. If we act in a manner that says it's okay to throw our natural resources to the highest bidder, what kind of message do we send? This is a watershed moment -- please act responsibly on behalf of all the citizens of the state. sincerely, Rachel D
- The failure to withdraw the draft SGEIS will surely spell your defeat in the next election. Do the right thing.
- Your Honor:
I write as President of the Lamoka-Waneta Lakes Association, of Schuyler and Steuben counties. As a property owner Association charged with preservation of the natural beauty and environmental health of our lakes we stand for responsible development of natural resources. The history of water pollution and environmental spoilage which has resulted in other states where hydro-fracturing mining has been allowed leaves us with great concern about the future of Upstate New York as an environmentally healthy place for people to live, visit, vacation, and invest.
Now that the EPA region 2 Director has weighed in on the incompleteness of the DEC report we hope that you will require a reworking and reevaluation of the entire question.The health of our citizenry, the beauty of the land, it's agricultural production, the health of its lakes and other waterways, including Lake Ontario, where most of this drains, all these things depend on a proper response by NY State government. Proper environmental protection is not optional at this time, it is mandatory. Thank you for your concern.
Dene K
- Dear Gov. Paterson,
In light of the EPA recommendations regarding hydrologic fracturing of the Marcellus Shale, I urge you to withdraw the draft SGEIS and address the many concerns outlined in the EPA statement and those in the many comments submitted to the DEC.
Infallible mechanisms for protecting the water, air, soil, infrastructure and local economy of our region must be put in place before any drilling permits are issued.
Lynne J
- Dear Governor Paterson,
Please withdraw the draft SGEIS. As a upstate native and resident I am strongly against the proposed gas drilling of the Marcellus Shale. The negative environmental impact of such drilling is too great.
Thank you.
concerned citizen,
Emily C
- Dear Governor Patterson:
If there were any doubts before, now that the EPA has weighed in with many substantive objections to the draft SGEIS prepared by the DEC, you are compelled to withdraw this seriously deficient document.
The dSGEIS does not do nearly enough to protect the vital water supply to New York City and other communities. There are just too many risks to the drilling processes which the DEC would permit. Now is the time to show some leadership and start this process over so the interests of the state and its environment can be properly protected.Fred L
- Dear Governor Patterson,
As life-long Democrats, we urge you to withdraw the draft SGEIS on Hydrealic Fracturing in the Marcellus Shale, which as many others have noted --,most recently the U. S. Environmental Protection Agency itself -- does not provide adequate protection for the vital water supplies in the state.
This is a make-or break issue for us in upstate New York. If you withdraw it, we will vote for you in the Democratic primary. If you fail to do so, we promise to vote for one of your opponents, whoever he or she may be.
We trust you will do the right thing by the people of the State of New York.
Yours sincerely,
Jonathan C
- Governor Paterson,
Please withdraw the draft SGEIS.Thank you,
Susan & William J
- Governor Paterson:
Please withdraw the draft SGEIS! (Marcellus Shale has too many risks!)thank you,
Stephanie S - Governor,
Please withdraw the draft SGEIS! It is not safe for New Yorkers, our
water supply or our environment. We do not want hydro-fracking in our
state.Thank you for your cooperation.
Sincerely,
Hillary B
- Dear Governor Patterson,
As a life long resident of Upstate New York, I implore you to withdraw the draft SGEIS. We have an international, irreplaceable treasure in our Finger Lakes, especially Skaneateles Lake. Hydrofracking puts this entire watershed at risk.
Do not risk destroying the cleanest lake in the Western Hemisphere!
Thank you,
Elizabeth H
- Dear Governor Patterson,
I ask that you immediately withdraw the draft Supplemental GEIS because
it is utterly inadequate to safeguard New York's environment and public
health. I offer the following points:* The Department of Environmental Conservation's (DEC) own spill
reports document existing regulations have failed to prevent or to
require the clean up hundreds of natural gas and oil drilling problems
involving fires, explosions, polluted drinking water wells, home
evacuations and massive drilling wastewater releases. DEC must not issue
new gas drilling permits until those regulatory concerns have been fully
resolved. That is why the Supplemental GEIS review must be restarted.* The draft SGEIS totally fails to propose a safe method of managing natural gas drilling wastewater and hydrofracking fluid. It simply leaves
that task to localities. Improper management of natural gas drilling
wastewater has already caused massive toxic pollution impacts. The SGEIS
must solve this disposal problem before new natural gas drilling permits
are issued.* DEC is woefully understaffed to cope with existing natural gas
drilling problems. Only 17 staff are available to regulate nearly 7,000
existing natural gas wells. New gas drilling permits must not be issued
until the SGEIS solves this problem.* The SGEIS fails to address critical issues associated with
strict clean up liability, natural gas spill reporting, private right of
legal action, insurance coverage and unfunded local government mandates.
All those concerns must be addressed prior to the issuance of new gas
drilling permits. In your role as steward of New York State, it is your responsibility
to prevent development such as this.Best wishes,
Elizabeth S
-
Dear Governor Paterson,
Please withdraw the draft sGEIS concerning horizontal gas drilling in the Marcellus Shale. I'm writing again in light of the recent requests for revisions made by the EPA Region 2 and the NY DEC union, both of which contend that the hydrofracturing process poses significant environmental and health risks and should not be undertaken without further study and preparation. I would add -- if at all.
Thank you for your attention to this urgent matter.
Sincerely,
Nancy P - Dear Governor,
I do not believe that the dSGEIS is ready for prime time. There are too many unaddressed issues relating particularly to ground water contamination, infrastructure destruction, and wastewater disposition. These are critical issues.
Don’t go forward with an ineffective, incomplete regulatory and oversight foundation. The energy companies need to be monitored carefully, and their actions need to be regulated or they will cause all kinds of destruction and deny any responsibility. Only a carefully designed plan with enforcement teeth and heavy monitoring can accomplish this.
If my private well is contaminated, my home and property become worthless and fining the offending company does nothing for me. Additionally, there is no remediation for some kinds of contamination; the destruction is effectively permanent.
Please get this right and take the necessary time to do so. That’s what our government is for because we as individuals don’t have the influence over the energy companies to get their attention.
Respectfully,
Frank S
- Dear Governor.....
Please consider what you are doing. No amount of money is worth NO DRINKING WATER and a polluted environment.
Alicia A