I’m often asked if I’m for or against gas drilling. I’m neither. I recognize the economic potential of the drilling, and I’m committed to doing what I can to make sure it’s conducted with minimal impact on our critical infrastructure.
The question shouldn’t be whether we drill for natural gas or not. Rather, it’s: How can we prepare ourselves and our community for safe drilling? This will come too soon for some, and not soon enough for others. But after New York’s regulations are finalized, I’m certain that it will be coming to our area.
I’ve spent the better part of the last year learning about the various aspects of natural gas exploration, including hydro-fracturing, wastewater disposal, roadway impacts, air quality and noise concerns, cumulative impacts, etc. I’ve listened to individual landowners and landowner coalitions, environmental advocacy groups and landmen organizations, lawyers and real estate brokers, gas company representatives and lobbyists, farmers and geologists, and elected officials.
I’ve learned that landowners are adamant about their environmental concerns. For example, they point to negotiated leases with numerous environmental protections built in. Because of this concern, they resent being pitted against “environmentalists,” who they think are bent on stalling the regulatory process.
I’ve also learned that environmental advocacy groups understand the economic potential associated with the Marcellus Shale gas formation. But they insist that regulations be updated, lessons be learned from other states, and that proper staffing levels be put in place by the state to monitor drilling activity. They resent being pitted against landowners, who they think are bent on drilling before critical infrastructure issues are addressed.
In the middle sits the majority of the community, waiting to see how all of this will play out. They know that things will change as a result of the drilling activity but are uncertain whether it will be positive or negative. Some have anxiety, some are confused, some seem indifferent.
Our community would be best served if all parties try to see the value in what the other “side” cares about. I believe that common ground exists. Everyone who lives in this valley appreciates and wants to protect our beautiful countryside. And everyone understands the financial shape of upstate New York.
The fact is that when drilling begins in earnest, our community will change significantly. We should use this time to anticipate and plan for the various issues that are bound to arise. We have learned from other communities that we also need to pay attention to other areas that will be impacted, such as medical and EMS services, affordable housing and public safety.
Polarizing groups and individuals into “pro” and “anti” drilling camps is not productive. It wastes time and energy and makes it harder for us to understand what’s at stake. It also hinders good judgments about what should be done in the short and long term. Working together, we can make sure the right questions are asked and everyone understands what to expect.
(This Guest Viewpoint was published in the Press & Sun-Bulletin on September 14, 2009)