very concerned about the effects of drilling for natural gas

Dear Administrator Enck / Mr. Martens ,

I am a resident of Ithaca, NY who is very concerned about the effects of drilling for natural gas in our region using hydrofracking. Have all other methods for extracting natural gas from the Marcllus Shale deposits been thoroughly studied? What about the method the Canadians have used? What has currently been proposed here seems to me will only result in great damage to our water, air, roads, tourism, our very way of life, and our whole ecosystem. (Just the noise alone would drive me completely nuts!) Please, can the next steps be taken in the most careful and intelligent ways possible?

I am asking that:

The scope of the draft SGEIS be expanded to include additional concerns, notably how to manage gas drilling wastewater;

Citizens and Technical Advisory Committees be established to help DEC revise the draft SGEIS;

At least 30 days public comment be provided to identify additional issues to be included in the draft SGEIS scope;

Individual EIS reviews be required for horizontal hydrofracturing permits, "GA effluent limitations" for hydrofracturing, deep well injection and wastewater treatment as well as updating DEC's 1992 GEIS.

Looking at the situation in Japan right now is so heartbreaking. I really don't want to see another ruination on my part of the planet since it can definitely be avoided.

Thank you for your attention.

Sincerely,

Natasha S.